(La Porte, IN) - La Porte Mayor Tom Dermody says enough signatures have been obtained for the city to annex the 39 North Conservancy District.

 

The city established a May 31st deadline for property owners in the district to sign a petition in favor of annexation. If enough signatures were not obtained, the city planned on dropping matter and pursuing other projects, instead.

 

Late this morning, Dermody revealed the goal of his administration to acquire the necessary signatures was achieved.

 

However, Dermody said the city will “determine the appropriate path forward” after the regularly scheduled 39 North Conservancy District meeting on Friday.

 

Dermody said the city decided not to take the next step until the meeting was held at the request of the 39 North Conservancy District Board.

 

“We are excited to partner with the Conservancy board and its residents to improve the infrastructure in this area and position the 39 North community for future growth. What’s best for these residents and business owners has always been at the heart of this discussion and we are happy to have their support to move forward,” he said.

 

The board is scheduled to meet at 8 a.m. at the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers  at 2751 Indiana 39.

 

A settlement agreement containing possible compensation from the city for infrastructure the district paid to have installed over 20-years could be presented to the board for its consideration as part of the city's annexation attempt. 

 

If both sides don’t come together on a settlement, the stage could be set for a potential legal battle.