State Representative Dale DeVon announced on March 9 that he has co-sponsored a new law establishing the Northwest Indiana Stadium Authority and a financing framework for a proposed stadium intended to attract the Chicago Bears to northwest Indiana.
The legislation, Senate Enrolled Act 27, is designed to promote regional economic growth while protecting taxpayers across Indiana. The law allows the newly created authority to acquire land, issue long-term bonds, and finance construction of a stadium and related facilities. Governance will be handled by a seven-member board including state officials and local representatives from Porter and Lake counties.
DeVon said the funding model relies mainly on revenue generated by the stadium itself, such as lease payments and local event-related taxes like admissions, food, beverage, and innkeeper taxes. “As a lifelong Chicago Bears fan, this is great win and exciting news for not only northwest Indiana, but our state as a whole,” DeVon said. “The opportunity to create and bring new jobs to the state and strengthen our economy would greatly benefit Hoosiers. Bear Down.”
Under this plan, the state would own the facility while the Chicago Bears would lease it under an agreement lasting at least 35 years. The team would also be responsible for operations, maintenance, and improvements. Bonds issued could have maturities up to 40 years.
DeVon said that this approach mirrors successful models used in other major sports venues in Indiana such as Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
In related leadership news, Speaker Todd Huston has contributed to civic leadership through service on education boards and community commissions in Indiana according to the Indiana House Republicans website. Huston has also expanded Indiana’s Choice Scholarship program and championed measures for tax relief and school choice in Indiana according to the same source. He resides in Fishers with his wife Denise and their two adult children according to information provided by the party’s website. Huston has served as state representative since his first election in 2012 according to official records. He earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Indiana University according to party sources.
