Nonprofit offers golf-cart shuttle for Marquette Park events; residents praise programs and raise questions about wetlands and policing

Dana Bennett, speaking for the nonprofit Life on the Lake, told the Gary Board of Park Commissioners during public comment on June 9 that her organization is prepared to provide golf-cart shuttle services for Marquette Park Pavilion events and offered to contract directly with event clients with no overhead to the parks department.

Bennett said the fleet is "street ready," that permits and seat belts are in place and that Life on the Lake is prepared to secure insurance with the city as an additional insured. She gave pricing of "$75 per hour per cart," and said six-seat and four-seat carts are available depending on event needs. Board members said they would have legal staff review any agreement and the board received the proposal for that review.

Other public comments included praise for the parks team and recent events — one speaker, Carol, said a June 3 event drew "over 200 people" and thanked the board for support. Commenters raised questions about how the city publicizes free programs; staff said information is posted on the parks website and available at Hudson Campbell and Marquette Park Pavilion.

Carol also asked about a proposed wetlands land swap and grants; staff said the environmental director is working with state contacts and that required materials are with the state and the city is awaiting the state's response so the city can proceed with grant applications. On policing, staff said Officer McCullum has been replaced at the pavilion by Officer Jones, who has been meeting with pavilion staff and coordinating with the chief. The board reiterated that beach operations generally begin closing around dusk and asked residents to behave "decently and in order."