Council approves short-term rental permit for 3654 Buchanan, 6–1

The Gary City Council voted 6–1 to approve CPO 2026-33, a special-use permit allowing Des Lofts LLC to operate a short-term rental at 3654 Buchanan Street. The council recorded a 6–1 roll-call vote and the ordinance passed on second reading after a presentation from zoning staff.

Roy Sharp, who introduced the application, said the property is residential and current on taxes and that the Board of Zoning Appeals recommended approval. "This came before the Board of Zoning Appeals in June for the 1st time, and came out of the BZA with a 4 0 recommendation in favor," Sharp said, noting staff-recommended conditions including a general business license, occupancy inspections and compliance with the Unified Development Ordinance's rules on noise, nuisance, parking, trash and neighborhood compatibility.

Council discussion touched on district identification and the rehabilitation benefits of converting vacant properties. One council member said the work is a positive step toward returning vacant homes to homeowners: "I'm, very pleased with, the work that this company and this establishment is putting in to help re re put rehabilitation to some homes in Gary," a council member said during the discussion. The motion to approve was made on the floor and carried with six yes votes and one no vote.

The approval imposes the BZA and staff conditions; the council directed that any expansion or modification of the approved use require additional review and approval.