Every January, the President of the United States gives a State of the Union address which is, at its core, a status update on how well the Union is doing. Today, Senator Donnelly came to Crossroads Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Morning Business Hour to give the State of the Legislation.
This served as a way for local businesses and community members to get an update on what the Senator has been working on for his constituents.
“Today we have our members and community members here to get a legislative update from Senator Donnelly,” said Sue Reed, President and CEO of Crossroads Regional Chamber of Commerce. “The Senator is going to tell us what legislation that he’s working on and how things are progressing.”
The Chamber regularly hosts the Morning Business Hour that gives local business representatives and members of the community and chamber, as well as public servants, a chance to speak.
“This gives our members an opportunity to network with one another and find out what’s happening in the area. We’re very happy to finally get the Senator here, grow our business community together, and be more successful in everything that we do,” stated Andrew Kryes, Banking Center Manager for Crown Point First Financial Bank and Crown Point City Council member.
This time, however, was special because Senator Donnelly came to speak on a number of subjects, ranging from local improvements on the South Shore line and Gary Airport, to healthcare, border security, and the opioid epidemic in Indiana.
“This is an extraordinary place and an incredible time. We’re in a position now where the Gary Airport is poised for incredible success. I think the next thing you’ll see out there is significant customs business going through there,” stated Donnelly.
Donnelly then went on to discuss the South Shore Line expansion, which entails adding a second track on the Eastbound Line and adding to the West Lake Line. This means that you’ll have a shorter commute to Chicago from places like Michigan City.
“This will cause dramatic growth throughout our region,” said Donnelly. “Our steel mills are hiring over the next year. Here in Lake County, we really have it together when it comes to what’s available for business. Businesses make more money, have less hassles, and they have greater chances of success here in Indiana. It’s my job to make sure that continues.”
Donnelly stressed that our economy was stronger than ever due in large part of the increasing diversity of the local economy. Northwest Indiana has always been good at making steel, but the Region is also good at IT and logistics, according to Donnelly.
“We have been able to get a bipartisan bill together to help with regulatory reform for our small businesses, credit unions and community banks, and help reduce the things you have to do two or three or more times,” continued Donnelly.
Donnelly was optimistic about Indiana’s future, stressing that he would like to continue his efforts as an incredibly bipartisan senator, and bringing in more senators and congressmen and women to include more bipartisanism in their efforts.
“Our future here has never been brighter, I think,” Donnelly concluded. “I’m really bullish on Northwest Indiana, and I can’t wait to continue to have a chance to serve you.”