(HAMMOND) - Support for a proposed Chicago Bears stadium in northwest Indiana remains strong in some areas, but disagreement is emerging over local taxes that would help finance the project.
The Indiana Capital Chronicle reports Indiana's incentive package for the proposed Hammond stadium includes new local taxes in both Lake and Porter counties. Revenue from those taxes would help fund more than $1 billion in infrastructure improvements tied to the stadium and surrounding development.
Porter County Commissioner Jim Biggs said he remains opposed to a proposed 1% restaurant tax in Porter County if the revenue would be used for a project in neighboring Lake County.
Biggs told the Indiana Capital Chronicle that Porter County has its own financial needs, including road maintenance, emergency services and employee compensation.
Porter County Council President Andy Vasquez, who supported the stadium financing plan, lost his Republican primary election last month. Vasquez said the council will not consider the restaurant tax this year and will leave the decision to future officeholders.
Governor Mike Braun said he is not concerned about resistance in Porter County and believes support will grow as negotiations continue.
The Indiana Capital Chronicle reports Braun's administration is leading discussions with the Bears, and the governor remains confident the stadium will ultimately be built in Hammond.
Hammond Mayor Tom McDermott said the Bears continue evaluating possible stadium locations within the city. He acknowledged some opposition to the proposed taxes but said he believes most residents support bringing the NFL franchise to northwest Indiana.
The stadium financing plan approved by state lawmakers earlier this year relies on a combination of local tax revenue and money from the Indiana Toll Road fund. The total project cost and the Bears' financial contribution have not yet been finalized.