Commissioners say 8th Street building not for immediate sale, clarify visitors bureau is independent

LaPorte County leaders told residents at a Michigan City town hall that they are evaluating options for underused county assets and clarified which entities control visitor services at Marquette Mall.

Steve Hollowield said the 8th Street building "is not going to be sold immediately" and recommended exploring alternatives including leasing part of the facility to offset utilities or other costs before pursuing a sale. "If it's costing us money to sit there...we have to look at different activities," Hollowield said.

A resident urged commissioners to consider selling the Ace Freight property, noting past purchase prices and concerns about people sleeping on the site. Officials did not announce a sale; they said the county is reviewing options.

Commissioner Connie Grammarosa addressed criticism of the La Porte County Convention and Visitors Bureau at Marquette Mall. Grammarosa said the visitors bureau, though it uses the county name, "is not run by the county" and is a separate entity funded by hotel innkeeper taxes and event revenue. She said the county does not pay the mall lease and advised residents to attend the bureau's monthly meetings to raise concerns.

Residents asked about jurisdiction for parks and port‑authority facilities; officials explained that certain waterfront park facilities are under the Michigan City Port Authority, a separate board.

Officials said they will provide follow‑up information to residents about meetings and next steps. No immediate sales or lease changes were decided at the town hall.