Originally published in The Vidette-Messenger of Porter County on November 29, 1975.
Sees Need For Train Service In This Area
CHESTERTON ー Second District Rep. Floyd Fithian told more than 50 persons Friday night he is hopeful commuter service can be maintained and improved along the Chicago, South Bend and South Shore Railroad in Porter and LaPorte Counties.
Answering questions during a public meeting at the Town Hall, Fithian said such train service is needed in a growing area such as northern Porter County.
The Lafayette Democrat said, “When we talk about mass transit, we have to start with the South Shore.”
Railroad officials have threatened to discontinue service east of Gary because of the continuing loss of money on the commuter service. They say sign of financial support from the other areas will be needed or service may be stopped. Meanwhile, Fithian said a congressional committee is holding up action on a proposed change in the standard meat grading system until a related court case is resolved in Omaha.
One resident complained of the high price charged for such meat as ham, and another called the proposed changes in grading a “rip off for the consumer,” adding his belief that meat ought to be labeled, “‘good,’ ‘better’ or ‘best’, and let the consumer decide what he wants.”
The congressman noted his opposition to federal gun registration procedures, saying such a plan would be ineffective.
He also said data is being gathered by a congressional committee on the alleged widespread misuse of food stamps.
Three persons complained to Fithian about the length of time involved in acquiring land for the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and of the low prices they say are being paid for the properties. One person said he was offered more for his land in 1970 than he is being offered today.
Fithian said unemployment ought to be a prime area of concern for public leaders, and steps must be taken to curb unemployment. He said one possible concept would be to employ persons to improve railroad beds around the country which, in turn, would help mass transit needs. Other residents said government spending needs to be cut and suggested scales be provided in supermarkets in the Chesterton area to allow patrons to weigh their purchases as a check on store markings.
