Gary planning committee delays action on short-term rental permit at 8045 Oak Avenue after applicant no‑show

Councilman Darren Washington, chairman of the Gary Common Council Planning and Development Committee, on the evening of the meeting postponed consideration of a special‑use permit for a short‑term rental at 8045 Oak Avenue after the petitioner failed to appear.

Attorney Molina told the committee, “this is the third no show on this.” Washington and Attorney Molina agreed to place the item on the council agenda for May 6 so members can vote then. Attorney Molina said the committee was not yet constrained by any 90‑day statutory deadline, adding, “We still have till June, so we're fine.”

The petitioner, identified in the committee paperwork as Schindenburg, did not appear at the meeting. Washington said he and staff had not heard back from the applicant since earlier notice that the petitioner had been out of town. No formal vote or permit decision was taken at the committee meeting; the item remains scheduled for the full council on May 6 for a definitive vote.

The committee heard no additional testimony or new evidence on the application at this meeting. Attorney Molina and committee staff said notices and prior communications had been sent; staff will confirm that required public notices and packet materials are provided before the May 6 meeting.

If the council takes final action at the May 6 meeting, the committee record will note that the petitioner missed three scheduled appearances before the Planning and Development Committee.