Burns Harbor reorganized its leadership structure, focusing on the continuation of long-term development and evolution of the town’s identity.
Gene Weibl was named President of the Redevelopment Commission (RDC) by a unanimous vote at the Commission’s regular monthly meeting Sept. 9. An active and passionate town leader, Weibl has served on the RDC and Town Council for the past four years, among his many municipal roles. Weibl also serves as the Sanitation Board President.
Weibl’s announcement as RDC leader came as the town needed to fill several open seats due to former Town Council member and RDC president, Greg Miller, resigning in July due to personal obligations.
The RDC previously named current Town Council President James McGee to fill Miller’s vacant seat.
Local leadership continue to expand upon many initiatives to establish Burns Harbor as a thriving small town while maintaining its authenticity and charm. The RDC hosted the largest gathering of local residents, community officials and business leaders in the town’s history July 9. There, LiveWorkLearnPlay (LWLP), who was named to the town’s master development and revitalization team in February, shared an extensive four-month reconnaissance and strategic market assessment. The research outlined opportunities for growth and generators of economic potential.
“The Redevelopment Commission and Town Council, together with LiveWorkLearnPlay, wholeheartedly believe the potential exists for Burns Harbor to become a thriving small town while remaining authentic and charming,” Weibl said. “This belief was further solidified after reviewing the market. We are committed to dutifully turning this vision into reality.”
Weibl continued, “Change doesn’t happen overnight, but trust we are putting the key fundamentals into place towards transformation. Interim activation planning is currently being identified to benefit residents. This is a phased process and soon enough residents and visitors will be able to get up, get out and get more out of life in Burns Harbor.”
Town leadership continues rigorous market research and testing to develop business and activation plans.
Other leadership changes include:
Eric Hull replaced Miller’s at-large positon on the Town Council and was named to the Sanitation Board
Angie Scott was named to the Board of Zoning Appeals and Plan Commission
Weibl was also named the new Plan Commission Vice President
All recent leadership changes within town are valid until the first of the year, when newly elected officials take office.
Burns Harbor currently has an open seat available on the Board of Zoning Appeals. Town residents interested in serving their community may speak to a Town Council member in-person, contact a Council member via text or call the Clerk Treasurer at 219.787.9413. An application is available on the “Boards & Commissions” page of the town website at www.burnsharbor-in.gov.