The Board of Public Works and Safety meeting held on January 2, 2025, in Hammond, Indiana, focused on several key administrative matters, including personnel promotions and construction agreements.

The meeting began with a roll call, confirming the presence of board members. The minutes from the previous meeting on December 26, 2024, were approved unanimously.

A significant discussion involved a request from Chief of Police William Short to promote probationary correctional officer Alyssa Jasso to the rank of correctional officer, effective January 1, 2025. The board approved this promotion without opposition.

Another important item was the approval of a construction agreement with Dyer Construction for the redevelopment of Memorial Park. Dean Button presented the request, which was also approved unanimously by the board.

Additionally, J and J Newell Concrete Contractors agreed to renew their sidewalk contract with the city for 2025. The board expressed satisfaction with their previous work and approved the renewal.

In new business, a request to increase the speed limit and install a blinking yellow turn arrow at the intersection of Columbia Avenue and Chicago Street was discussed. After consideration, the board decided to deny both requests, citing that the current wait time for turns at the intersection was manageable.

The meeting concluded with a motion to set a rental registration hearing for January 16, 2025, which was also approved. There were no matters from the public, and the meeting was adjourned shortly thereafter.

Overall, the meeting addressed essential administrative functions and community safety concerns, reflecting the board's commitment to local governance and infrastructure development.