When necessary to accomplish the purposes of the commission, the commission may do the following:

1. (1) Conduct studies necessary for the performance of the commission's duties.
2. (2) Publicize, advertise, and distribute reports on the commission's purposes, objectives, and findings.

3. (3) Provide recommendations in matters related to the commission's functions and objectives to the following:

   1. (A) The governor and, in an electronic format under IC 5-14-6 , the general assembly.
   2. (B) Political subdivisions that have territory within northwest Indiana.
   3. (C) Other public and private agencies.
4. (4) When requested, act as a coordinating agency for programs and activities of other public and private agencies that are related to the commission's objectives.

5. (5) Receive grants and appropriations from the following:

   1. (A) Federal, state, and local governments.
   2. (B) Individuals.
   3. (C) Foundations.
   4. (D) Other organizations.
6. (6) Enter into agreements or contracts regarding the acceptance or use of these grants and appropriations for the purpose of carrying out the commission's activities under this chapter.
7. (7) Acquire and dispose of real or personal property by grant, gift, purchase, lease, devise, or otherwise.

8. (8) Hold, use, improve, maintain, operate, own, manage, or lease as lessor or lessee:

   1. (A) real or personal property; or
   2. (B) any interest in real or personal property.
9. (9) Contract for staff services with qualified agencies or individuals.

As added by P.L.119-2025, SEC.1.