Public Meetings - Clarksville, Indiana

The Clarksville Town Council held a work session and regular meeting on November 2, 2026. The work session focused on opioid settlement fund requests, including a $9,399.90 Fire Department request and a separate request from Catalyst Rescue that staff said could not be funded above the prior $35,000 commitment. The regular meeting included public testimony about enforcement of the town’s retail pet store ordinance, routine consent items, budget transfers, an eScribe live-streaming contract, sale of town property at 1420 Baxter Avenue, pay-scale and classification amendments, a police salary ordinance second reading, surplus police vehicle trade-ins, an easement vacation, and creation of a River Falls Mall non-reverting fund. The work session ended at 6:32 p.m.; the regular meeting followed and had been moved to November 2 for the election. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda: minutes of the joint town council regular meeting, work session, and executive sessions; claims for current and pre-written wastewater/sewage, bonds, grants, and payroll; and acceptance of minutes for placement in the file. Motion by Mr. Stotts, second by Mr. Ramsey; unanimous voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Jennifer Blythe, 301 South Clark Boulevard, said it had been one year since she first raised concerns about retail pet stores. She thanked the council for passing an ordinance in July but expressed frustration with the lack of visible enforcement. She said there was documentation of multiple puppies diagnosed with parvo, Giardia, coccidia, and intestinal worms, and argued that Indiana law leaves animal care and sanitation to local government. She urged requiring the actual breeder—not just a broker—to be identified, said Puppy Gram’s Louisville operation used USDA breeder license numbers that USDA confirmed through a FOIA request never existed, and asked whether Clarksville could suspend the store’s license under Code §§ 91.025 and 91.026 until compliance. - Jennifer Blaif, 608 Millwood Place, thanked the Street Department for Millwood and Parkwood road work. She said Puppy Gram was cited in August for three ordinance violations, including failure to meet veterinary exam requirements, but court hearings had been postponed and puppies remained at the store. She said Town Manager Adams confirmed Puppy Gram had received no exceptions and enforcement was ongoing, but declined to discuss inspections, additional citations, or compliance timelines because the August case was pending; she stressed that enforcement is also the town’s responsibility. She asked whether the store was receiving required in-person veterinary exams, whether it had come into compliance, how long violations could remain uncorrected while it operated, and whether new or continuing violations were being documented and cited. She also asked Mr. McEwen whether Green Tree Mall had required Puppy Gram to correct violations as a condition of continuing to operate, noting citations were issued nearly three months ago. - A council member responded that the matter was before the courts and that the breeder-disclosure issue would be checked. Blythe added that New Albany and Jeffersonville ordinances require disclosure of both breeder and broker, that she had shared evidence with Attorney Sturgeon, that the breeder cards named Miles Handy and USDA confirmed he had never been issued a breeder’s license, and that referrals had been made to the Indiana Attorney General, Kentucky Attorney General, and IRS. Discussion Items - Work session — Opioid settlement fund: Staff reported a current balance of $71,500 in the fund, with $35,000 to $50,000 per year committed to Catalyst Rescue; only $35,000 was given last year, and $5,319.66 in revenue had been added this year. Staff said it could not commit above the prior $35,000 and suggested adding the request to the next meeting agenda for further discussion. Council also discussed whether other entities, including veterans’ groups, might use the funds. The work session also briefly discussed another funding request, with a council member saying they wanted audit clarification and answers before giving more funds this year; staff offered follow-up. - Work session — Fire Department opioid request: Clarksville Fire Department requested $9,399.90 from the unrestricted opioid settlement fund 2256: $4,399.90 for emergency medical equipment including naloxone/Narcan, bag-valve masks, IO access supplies, resuscitation equipment, gloves, and patient-care supplies, plus $5,000 for continuing EMS education. The training would cover all 45 department personnel with five six-hour sessions by shift, providing 18 hours per person toward the 40 hours required every other year for certification. The chief said naloxone has about a two-year shelf life and some plastics up to four years, and that overdose call volume varies from several weeks with none to three or four per week, with peaks of three or four per day. He planned to raise reimbursement and product-replacement issues with Heartland at an operations board meeting the next day. Council members voiced support, calling the Fire Department the front line of defense; no formal vote was taken in the work session. - 2026 BUD-06 transfer ordinance: Staff explained the ordinance moves appropriations between line items within the same fund or department to eliminate negative balances before the state’s December 31 deadline; it is not a request for new funds. The largest transfer noted was more than $40,000 between line items. Approved. - eScribe contract: Staff recommended a 26-month agreement beginning November 2026 and ending December 31, 2028, for live streaming. The contract total was $41,279, including $2,848 for November–December 2026, $17,881 for 2027, and $20,550 for 2028. Implementation fees were waived; the 2029 renewal was capped at $21,577.50, a maximum 5% increase, with the town responsible for the final $7,428. Approved. - Sale of 1420 Baxter Avenue: An RFP issued October 6, 2026, with an October 23 deadline resulted in American Mobile Glass being the highest-scored respondent with a complete proposal and $440,000 purchase price. Staff recommended approval. A council member asked about a $437,500 figure in the packet; staff clarified the $440,000 proposal price versus the RFP minimum reference. Approved. - Pay scale amendment: The council approved amendments to the pay scale and classification for the animal control officer and public works laborers with CDLs. Staff said the changes do not alter pay but establish the framework for the previously approved CDL pay increase effective December 7, 2026, and a new CDL classification. The new level-three animal control officer classification includes advanced training, investigation, documentation, case-building, and EBI duties for severely injured animals. Staff reported 12 such cases this year, seven of which died in transit, and cited liability and risk in transporting injured animals. - Police salary ordinance: The council conducted and approved a second reading of the police salary ordinance. - Surplus property and police vehicles: The council approved surplus designation and trade-in of four Durangos, with council discussion referencing a $5,000 trade-in value, to allow the police department to proceed with the previously approved purchase of two Tahoes and remove the vehicles from the books and insurance. - Easement vacation: Commercial Logistics Corporation, which owns all lots contiguous to the easement, petitioned to vacate an easement recorded November 13, 2018. Staff recommended approval. Approved. - River Falls Mall non-reverting fund: Ordinance 2026 G17 establishes a non-reverting fund for revenues and expenses tied to common-area maintenance agreements and the Bass Pro Shops lease, separating them from TIF and other town funds. Staff said rental payments were not behind; funds now come directly to the town after ending the prior mall management agreement. Approved. - Housing hearing: Staff announced that HB 1001 requires a municipal housing hearing by year-end; Clarksville scheduled a special-called Plan Commission meeting for Wednesday at 6:00 p.m. in council chambers, followed by the regular Plan Commission meeting. - Reports and comments: A department/office report noted efforts to maximize interest and dividends on short-term savings, identified the fire territory as a major concern, and mentioned ongoing records requests. Council members thanked police, fire, public works, and animal control; mentioned Halloween presence, a suspected arson in a Deer Run park, new road work, and encouraged civic participation. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved unanimously. - 2026 BUD-06 transfer ordinance approved. - eScribe 26-month live-streaming contract approved. - Sale of 1420 Baxter Avenue to American Mobile Glass for $440,000 approved. - Pay scale and classification amendment approved, including the new level-three animal control officer and CDL framework. - Police salary ordinance second reading approved. - Surplus property and trade-in of four Durangos approved. - Easement vacation for Commercial Logistics Corporation approved. - Ordinance 2026 G17 creating the River Falls Mall non-reverting fund approved. - The Fire Department’s $9,399.90 opioid-fund request was discussed with support but not voted on; staff suggested it be placed on the next meeting agenda. Catalyst Rescue funding above $35,000 was not committed; further discussion was expected. - Public calls for stronger enforcement and breeder disclosure regarding Puppy Gram were referred to ongoing court and enforcement processes and follow-up.

The meeting, beginning at 11:15 UTC on November 2, 2026, covered a requested water-bill adjustment for Park CU and a discussion of the town’s opioid settlement funds. No formal votes were recorded in the transcript; the water adjustment was deferred to the next council meeting, and the opioid fund item was discussion-only. No adjournment time was stated. Public Comments & Testimony - A Park CU representative disputed the characterization that the leak went unrepaired for nine months. The representative said the bank was notified by the town of Clarksville of a leak and repaired it two days later, with third-party verification the next day. The representative described the leak at the underground water-service connection—an underground poly water line with a plastic connection leading to copper pipe—and said warmer-month usage could reflect expansion and contraction of that fitting. The representative also said 2025 was not a good baseline because a toilet replacement occurred that year, and explained that billing runs two months behind, which is why the request came late in the year. Discussion Items - Water bill adjustment request: Staff presented usage analysis for Park CU, noting the account’s 12-month average has doubled annually: 10,269 gallons in 2023, over 22,000 gallons in 2024, 48,952 gallons in 2025, and 94,000 gallons in 2026. Staff did not dispute that a leak occurred and that an adjustment was deserved, but argued $14,000 was not reasonable. Using the 2025 12-month average, staff calculated 746,935 gallons of overage at $1.24 per 100 gallons, a $9,261.99 adjustment; after an already-provided adjustment, the total would be $9,251.80; including $1,408.06 in late penalties charged this year would make $9,659.86. Staff said discussions with Park began early in the year when usage spiked; the leak was researched in April and not repaired until July. Council members raised the town’s three-month adjustment policy and asked for a three-month calculation rather than a nine-month one; the presenter said it could be sent to Glenn tomorrow. Council members and staff discussed that the town has sometimes gone back longer than three months, but three months is the baseline. - Opioid settlement funds: The council president opened the item because end-of-year opioid funds are available and an additional amount had been received. A.D. explained that municipalities receive state opioid settlement money into two funds: unrestricted and restricted. Unrestricted funds can be used largely as the council deems fit, with the intent of investing in community efforts to prevent or address opioid addiction; restricted funds carry many limitations. A.D. said an official state opinion letter breaking down the rules had been emailed to council members the previous night. Key Outcomes - The water adjustment request was taken under advisement and deferred to the next council meeting; staff was asked to provide a three-month adjustment scenario. - No decision or vote was recorded on the opioid fund discussion.

The Clarksville Board of Zoning Appeals met on October 28, 2026, at the Clarksville Administration Building. The board approved the prior meeting minutes, approved two variances, and tabled one old-business item and one new-business signage item. Consent Calendar - The board approved the minutes of the August 26, 2026 regular session by show of hands after a motion and second. Discussion Items V-26-0020 — Use Variance for a Car Wash at 950 E Lewis & Clark Parkway (Old Business) - This item was tabled; the board indicated it would likely return at a future meeting. V-26-0022 — Variance for Off-Site Signage in Town Right-of-Way for Origin Park - The applicant was not present. The board noted this is a joint park and town project for traffic signage directing people toward Origin Park. Although the agenda listed Melissa Holt as attending, no applicant appeared, and the board voted to table the item. V-26-0023 — Wall Sign Height Variance, 706 E Lewis & Clark Parkway - Applicant Jim Glass attended. Staff reported the property, zoned B2, is an approximately 11.6-acre site with multiple buildings; the existing trampoline park site is being sold and rebranded as Hype Kids Park. - The proposed signage would have a maximum letter height of five feet. Under the current sign ordinance, the maximum letter height is two feet, or three feet maximum element; with a waiver from the planning director, it could be four feet maximum letter and five feet logo/element. The proposed five-foot letter height exceeds the allowed height without a waiver by three feet and the allowed height with a waiver by one foot. - Staff stated the existing signage was approved under the pre-2019 sign ordinance, is larger than the proposed signage, and the new sign is about 550 feet from the road behind other outbuildings. Staff recommended approval with no conditions. - Jim Glass said the existing sign is 4 by 61, which is 244 square feet, while the proposed sign is 80 square feet; it would be halo lit/backlit and not obtrusive. He agreed with the staff report. - A motion to approve the waiver, concurring with the staff report, passed with all in favor. V-26-0024 — Corner Yard Fence Variance, 658 N Clark Boulevard - Applicant Aurora Alcala attended. The property is a 0.28-acre corner lot zoned West River Front District with a roughly 1,200-square-foot house. Because it is a corner lot, the town considers it to have two front yards. - The applicant requested a variance for a six-foot wood privacy fence in the required front yard to provide a safe area for children to play. Staff reported the fence would be about 30 feet from the intersection and should maintain the vision triangle, and the build line would be preserved along North Clark Boulevard. Staff recommended approval with one condition: a three-foot gate along Carter for access to the wastewater line. - Aurora Alcala stated placing the fence at the required setback would cut through an existing fireplace and a vineyard, place the fence about 30 feet inside the property line, reduce her usable backyard, and create safety concerns because people cut through the property. - A motion to approve under the recommended condition passed with all in favor. Key Outcomes - Approved the August 26, 2026 regular session minutes. - Approved V-26-0023 (wall sign height variance at 706 E Lewis & Clark Parkway). - Approved V-26-0024 (corner yard fence variance at 658 N Clark Boulevard) with the wastewater-access gate condition. - Tabled V-26-0020 (car wash use variance, old business) and V-26-0022 (Origin Park off-site signage variance). - The board noted the November and December meeting dates had been adjusted earlier in the year to avoid holiday conflicts; V-26-0020 and V-26-0022 were expected to return, and a garage/carport item might be added in December.

The Clarksville Redevelopment Commission met on October 27, 2026, to approve routine items, receive project updates on several major developments, and pass resolutions to support the Clockworks project and amend TIF allocation areas. The commission also authorized staff to begin negotiations on River Falls Mall common area maintenance costs. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the 92-26 regular meeting and the 92-26 executive session meeting, with a correction noted for member April's absence. Discussion Items - Project Updates: - Josh reported that the Main Street flood wall project is awaiting installation of the flap gate structure (40 feet of road remaining). He stated that the Shields Access Road project is substantially complete; the contractor finished the punch list, allowing final closeout. An amendment for additional inspection costs due to a three-month extension (from July 6 to September 30) was later approved. - Richard updated on South Clark Boulevard: right-of-way acquisition and utility relocations continuing; new easements signed. For the Forge project, two concrete panels on Main Street may need removal, asphalt material was found in parking lot fill, and a revised dirt handling agreement has been sent for signature. - Tammy provided photos of the flap gate installation at Riverside Drive and Main Street. Main Street is closed for approximately three months for the structure installation. The flap gate itself will be installed later. - David presented drone photos of the George project. Progress includes under-slab utilities, framing to third floor, masonry on tower C (90% complete), and upcoming slab pours in November. Foundations along Main Street are the last foundation work. - River Falls Mall CAM Costs: Glenn presented a preliminary estimate of $110,000–$140,000 for common area maintenance (CAM) costs based on three months of data from CPP. He proposed a 15% allocation for the theater property owned by Coil Group ($16,500–$13,375). Commissioners expressed concern about the limited data and potential inaccuracies. Glenn requested permission to start discussions with Coil, explaining that the final cost would be reconciled annually as a zero-sum arrangement. The commission voted to authorize Glenn to proceed with negotiations. - Staff Reports: Chris announced he would bring a similar resolution for the Main & Clark property at the next meeting. Tammy noted the need to approve the spending plan in November (deadline December 1) and discussed meeting dates: November 24 (Tuesday before Thanksgiving) and December 22 (before Christmas). Members indicated availability. Harrison is working on extending an EPA Brownfield grant ($250,000 remaining) and seeking reimbursements. Key Outcomes - Approved Amendment 1 for Shields Access Road: Increased the professional services contract with Jacoby Tombs and Lands, LLC by $45,000 to a revised total of $225,000 due to project delays. Vote: unanimous. - Approved Resolution 2026 R-14: Committed up to $8.66 million in local TIF revenues over four years as matching support for the Clockworks project, leveraging a $10 million Indiana Economic Development Corporation grant through the Lilly Endowment LiNk and Remediation Program. Vote: unanimous. - Approved Resolution 2026 R-15: Amended the declaratory resolution for the Clarksville Commercial Economic Development Area to create South Clarksville Allocation Area 4, removing the Clark’s Landing property (estimated $215.7 million development) from the legacy TIF district. This action does not commit financing. Vote: unanimous. - Authorized Staff to Negotiate CAM Costs: The commission approved Glenn to begin discussions with Coil Group regarding common area maintenance charges for the River Falls Mall theater property, based on a 15% estimated allocation. The final amount will be reconciled annually.

The Clarksville Town Council convened for a work session and regular meeting on October 20, 2026. The work session covered meeting streaming technology, animal control staff classification, and a proposed property tax abatement. The regular session included police awards, a chipper purchase, a CDL driver wage increase, and a vote on the tax abatement resolution. The next meeting was rescheduled to November 2, 2026 due to Election Day. Consent Calendar The council approved the consent agenda (items 5.1, 5.2, 5.3), which included minutes from previous meetings, claims, payroll, grants, and acceptance of minutes, by a vote of 6-0. Public Comments & Testimony No members of the public signed up to speak during the regular meeting. Discussion Items - Meeting Streaming Options: Staff presented three options to address recurring failures of the current Granicus system: upgrading Granicus, moving to in-house streaming with Haas Design Company, or adopting the eScribe platform by Infinite Solutions. eScribe's account executive Bob Brayman detailed their proposal, which included unlimited AI captioning and minute generation. Staff expressed a preference for eScribe. - Animal Control Staff Classification: Staff recommended creating an Animal Control 3 position at the SAM 5 pay grade for lead officer Ronnie Sharp, requiring NACA Level 3 and euthanasia by injection certifications. The goal was to reduce animal suffering, accident risks from long transports, and enable better inspections. The existing LTC 1 position would be retained for future hires. No vote was taken; staff will bring back an ordinance for the next meeting. - Property Tax Abatement – Storage Connection Partners: The council discussed a requested 10-year, 50% property tax abatement for a new $6 million, 131,250 square foot industrial warehouse on US 31. Councilwoman Voignier expressed strong opposition, arguing the abatement contradicted financial sacrifices recently asked of residents. - CDL Driver Wage Increase: Brad from Public Works requested a $4.50 per hour wage increase for six CDL drivers to make the town competitive. He also proposed the town cover CDL training costs (approx. $5,000) with a repayment commitment period. The council requested the training proposal be brought back with specific terms. - Equipment and Vehicle Purchases: The council discussed the need for a new chipper for Public Works and two new patrol vehicles for the Police Department. - Public Records Update: Kendall reported that since December 2025 the town has received 147 public records requests. 25 requests remain open. - Clerk-Treasurer Report: Clerk-Treasurer A.D. Stonecipher was absent, so no financial report was delivered. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved 6-0. - Chipper Purchase: Approved the purchase of a Vermeer chipper for $88,656.52 using existing departmental funds. (Motion by Henderson, second by Ramsey. Passed 6-0). - CDL Wage Increase: Approved the $4.50 per hour increase for six CDL drivers, effective December 7, 2026. The component regarding covering CDL training costs was deferred to be brought back separately for a future vote. (Motion by Voignier, second by Henderson. Passed 6-0). - Police Vehicle Purchase: Approved the purchase of two patrol vehicles to replace units with catastrophic failures. (Motion by Henderson, second by Munich. Passed 6-0). - Property Tax Abatement Resolution 2026-R-16: A motion to deny the abatement failed (2-4). A subsequent motion to approve the 10-year, 50% tax abatement for Storage Connection Partners passed (4-2). Council members Voignier and Henderson voted against the abatement. - Next Meeting Date: The meeting scheduled for November 3, 2026 (Election Day) was moved to Monday, November 2, 2026, and will be held in the executive conference room. - Gary J. Noakes Day Proclamation: Councilmember Munich requested a proclamation declaring December 19, 2026, as Gary J. Noakes Day in Clarksville. - Halloween Safety: Councilmember Ramsey announced that Halloween would be observed from 6 to 8 p.m. and that the Clarksville Police Department would have extra patrols.

The Clarksville Town Council held a special session and regular meeting on October 7, 2026 (the transcript references October 6, but the provided file metadata indicates October 7). The main actions included adoption of the 2026 budget after two readings, approval of salary ordinance amendments reclassifying a training inspector position, recognition of a construction award, and a proclamation for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Budget Special Session - The Council held a special session at 5:45 PM to consider the 2026 budget. Clerk-Treasurer A.D. Stonecipher and Interim Town Manager Glenn Adams presented the proposed budget. They noted that the budget is balanced but requires drawing from reserves. The budget includes a temporary one-year pay increase for non-union employees at the Council's request, though the exact amount was not specified because the Department of Local Government Finance (DLGF) may later require cuts (possibly up to 10%). The fire territory is operating on Theater X savings. Adams reported that the budget was crafted after asking all departments to cut to minimums. He requested unanimous approval to forward the budget to the state by the end of October. The Council unanimously passed the budget on first reading (motion by Mr. Stotts, second by Mr. Ramsey, all ayes). A second reading immediately followed (motion by Mr. Stotts, second by Mr. Ramsey), also passing unanimously. The budget will be submitted to the DLGF for review and possible amendment before final adoption for calendar year 2026. Recognition & Appointments - The Indiana/Kentucky Associated Builders and Contractors presented the 2026 Award of Merit to the Town of Clarksville for the Clark County Riverside Drives project. Council members accepted on behalf of the town. - Councilwoman Karen Henderson read a proclamation designating October 2026 as Breast Cancer Awareness Month in Clarksville. The proclamation noted that approximately one in eight women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. The town will display the Susan G. Komen “Giving T” on the Rosie the Riveter statue to promote awareness. The proclamation was approved unanimously. New Business 7-1: Salary Ordinance Amendment (Training & Safety Inspector) - Due to changes by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) effective February 7, 2022, which impose new instructor certification and registry requirements, the town can no longer perform CDL training in-house. The CDL training/safety inspector position was originally created to include CDL training, but with the new barriers, the role is being retitled to “Training & Safety Inspector” and CDL duties are eliminated. The estimated cost for instructor training alone was $10,000, plus $8,500 per year for registry access. The town trains an average of 1.5 individuals per year for CDLs. Staff and human resources recommended approval. The Council approved ordinance 2026-S-09 (amending 2025-S-15) on first reading (motion by Mr. Ramsey, second by Ms. Henderson, all ayes) and then on second reading (motion by Mr. Stotts, second by Mr. Ramsey, all ayes). 7-2: Pay Scale Amendment (Reclassification to LTC-1) - Following the removal of CDL duties, the Training & Safety Inspector position is reclassified from Supervisory, Administrative and Management (SAM-5) to Labor, Trades and Crafts (LTC-1) in the pay scale. The LTC-1 category was amended to reflect the title and salary range. Staff recommended approval. The Council approved on first reading (motion by Mr. Stotts, second by Mr. Ramsey, all ayes) and second reading (motion by Mr. Stotts, second by Mr. Ramsey, all ayes). Old Business – Treasurer’s Report (A.D. Stonecipher) - Bond Rating: Stonecipher reported a positive video call with representatives from Standard & Poor’s Global to maintain the town’s A+ bond rating for the next public-private partnership regarding the Nan Clark project. - Water Fee: Indiana American Water filed a notice with the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) on September 29, 2026, seeking to pass on a hybrid fee to customers. The estimated increase for a typical residential 5/8-inch meter in Clarksville is $4.02 per month (potential effective date October 29, 2026, pending IURC ruling). - Public Records Requests: Since the last meeting, the town received 13 new public records requests (total 143 to date). Of these, 26 are still open: 23 are waiting for the requester to provide more specific details, and 3 are awaiting staff responses. The town aims to close requests within 30 days and has implemented a weekly denial reporting process to the Indiana Public Records Authority. Casual Comments & Other Matters - Council members reported on the recent AIM (Accelerate Indiana Municipalities) conference. Several counties are not listening to municipalities regarding local income tax (LIT) distribution, and Clark County’s recent LIT proposal was not supported by Clarksville because it would have required over $3 million in cuts, mostly affecting police. The issue is under legislative review, and the effective date may be pushed back another year. - Councilwoman Henderson noted that October 8, 2026, marks Clarksville’s 243rd birthday (established 1783); the 250th anniversary will be celebrated in 2033. A concert with Cody Eckert and Hang Jones is scheduled for October 17, 2026, and a Halloween event is planned (time set for 5:30–8:00 PM on a Saturday). - Council members expressed gratitude to staff, firefighters, and the community for their support. Key Outcomes - 2026 Budget Approved on first and second readings unanimously; to be submitted to the DLGF. - Ordinance 2026-S-09 (Training & Safety Inspector reclassification) approved on first and second readings. - Pay scale amendment (LTC-1 addition) approved on first and second readings. - Proclamation for Breast Cancer Awareness Month adopted. - Award of Merit accepted for Riverside Drives project. - Next steps: Budget may be revised after DLGF review; water fee IURC decision pending; public records processes remain ongoing.

The Clarksville Plan Commission met on October 7, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at the Town Municipal Building. The meeting was called to order with a quorum of four members present. The commission approved the minutes from the previous meeting, considered a development plan for a new VA Clinic, and discussed a required public review of housing regulations. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the September 2, 2026 regular session were approved unanimously via voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Sally Helbig (resident of 966 Spicewood Drive) expressed concern about the impact of the proposed VA Clinic on her backyard, which has a pool. She asked about possible fencing or additional vegetation to provide privacy. She noted that the nearby medical facility had installed a privacy fence. Discussion Items - DP-26-0005: Development Plan Approval for VA Clinic – The applicant, Carnegie Management and Development Corp, presented a plan for a new outpatient VA Clinic on an 8.35-acre vacant site along Clevidence Boulevard. The clinic will be a single-story building of approximately 52,600 square feet with daytime occupancy only. The project includes a 35-foot buffer yard along the rear property line adjacent to R1 homes on Spicewood and Teakwood, with 9 to 12 trees planned. Staff noted that the photometric plan showed an anomalously bright spot (20.5 foot-candles) on the north corner, likely an error, and the buffer yard requirement is discretionary per the Veterans Parkway Corridor zone. The developer agreed to provide an updated lighting plan and to add nine shrubs between the rear trees, contingent upon approval from wastewater (Matt Taylor) due to a 24-inch force main easement. The commission discussed whether the buffer yard was sufficient and whether additional landscaping could be required without overplanting. The developer emphasized a “healing campus” design and noted that VA clinics avoid institutional fencing. - Discussion of Required Public Review of Development Regulations for Housing in Clarksville – Commissioner Carrie announced a special called plan commission meeting on November 4, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. to hold a state-required public forum on housing. No action will be taken; the forum will cover types of housing, current allowances, and public input. The commission voted to schedule this special meeting. Key Outcomes - DP-26-0005 was approved 4-0 with three conditions: 1. The applicant shall submit an updated photometric plan to staff demonstrating compliant lighting levels (specifically reducing brightness at the north corner). 2. The 35-foot buffer yard is deemed sufficient to meet the buffer yard requirement for the Veterans Parkway Corridor zone. 3. The applicant shall install nine additional shrubs (one per existing tree) along the rear property line, subject to approval from the wastewater department (Matt Taylor) regarding the force main easement. - November 4, 2026 Special Meeting – The commission approved a motion (4-0) to hold a special plan commission meeting at 6:00 p.m. prior to the regular 7:00 p.m. meeting, for the public forum on housing. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 7:45 p.m.

The Clarksville Redevelopment Commission held its regular meeting on September 22, 2026, at 12:15 PM (local time). The meeting included a public hearing on expanding the South Clarksville allocation area, project updates for several infrastructure and development projects, approval of a resolution and change order, and staff reports on financial and administrative matters. The meeting adjourned at 7:39 PM. Public Hearing - Expansion of South Clarksville Allocation Area No. 1 - The commission opened a public hearing to consider expanding the South Clarksville allocation area to include portions of Main Street and South Clark Boulevard, connecting to the future Main Park project and the Colgate property. The proposal had previously been approved by the Plan Commission and Town Council. No members of the public came forward to speak for or against the expansion. The public hearing was declared closed. Approval of Meeting Minutes - The minutes of the previous meeting were approved unanimously (4-0). Project Updates - Main Street Floodwall Project: Still awaiting installation of the flood flap gate structure on Riverside Drive. Update expected from Tammy. - Shields Access Road Project: Nearly complete; grass seed installation scheduled for the next day, with a final inspection the following week. A time extension change order was noted due to drought conditions. - South Clark Boulevard Project: Working on easements, construction plans reviewed by the whaling group, utility coordination with Lightos, and pricing from Mac. Equipment relocation to accommodate the Main & Clark developer. Expecting revised plans and easements to begin work. - Lot 2 Project: Working with Denton Floyd on a reimbursement of $412,945 for town work. Denton Floyd agreed to irrigate the parking lot. Fire hydrant relocation may receive a variance. Landscape plan adjusted for tree proximity to detention basin. Forge contractor to start transformer room approach around mid-October for $75,561. Negotiating agreements for dirt stockpiling and contaminated soil storage. Conduit coordinates provided for electric to parking lot. - Flapgate Structure & Utility Poles: Mac expected on-site mid-October to install the flapgate structure and complete sidewalks. Two utility poles at the old Carmen building to be removed by Mac. Road closure expected 30-45 days. - Main & Clark (The George) Project: George presented a drone photo and field report showing progress: slabs poured (red hatched area), first-level framing with decking and perimeter walls starting, foundation work continuing. Staging areas, storm line backfilling, and footing excavation ongoing. Coordination with local utilities along Main Street. Resolution 2026 R-13 - Amendment to Declaratory Resolutions for Clarksville Commercial Economic Development Area (South Clarksville Expansion) - Staff recommended approval of the resolution to expand the allocation area, following previous approvals by the Plan Commission (September 2, 2026) and Town Council (September 15, 2026). A financial impact statement was prepared by Baker Tilly and distributed to underlying taxing units. The resolution was approved with 3 votes in favor and 1 abstention (transcript states "three eyes, one extension" – interpreted as one abstention). Change Order for Shields Access Road and Block 5 Detention Basin - Approved a change order granting a 34-day extension (new completion date September 30, 2026) to allow grass seeding during optimal growing conditions due to drought. Approved unanimously. Staff and Legal Reports - Chris: Noted the financial impact statement for the public hearing must be included in the minutes. Announced plans to carve out the Main & Clark project and the Colgate property into separate TIF districts to maximize future income and address negative assessed values. Process will start at the next meeting. - CFO (likely Mr. Cardi): Reported temporarily suspending certain claims (explanation sent to commissioners). Also disclosed that over the past seven years, approximately $136,000 in federal grant reimbursements were not properly filed for three projects (Montgomery Avenue, Blackiston Mill Road phase 2, Riverside Drive). Requested approval to zero out these negative balances before December 31, 2026, to comply with the State Board of Accounts. - Tammy: Introduced Harrison Hardy, the new Capital Project Manager, who will serve as the ERC for KIPTA to ensure proper tracking of reimbursements and project management. Key Outcomes - Approvals: Meeting minutes (unanimous), Resolution 2026 R-13 (3-1), Change Order (unanimous), Rule of Claims (unanimous). - Directives: Staff to begin process for separating Main & Clark and Colgate into individual TIFs; CFO to bring formal request to zero out $136,000+ in negative project balances. - Next Steps: Final inspection of Shields Access Road next week; Mac on-site mid-October for flapgate structure; continuation of South Clark Boulevard easements and utility work; Harrison Hardy to begin KIPTA training.

The Clarksville Town Council held a public hearing on the proposed fiscal year 2027 budget and then its regular meeting on September 15, 2026. Clerk-Treasurer A.D. Stonecypher presented the budget, and no members of the public spoke during the hearing or signed up for public comment for the regular meeting. The council also took up the Maine and Clark bond ordinance, a rental inspection program amendment, a South Clarksville TIF allocation-area expansion, and a new non-reverting building fund. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda covered items 5.1 through 5.3: minutes of the joint town council regular meeting, work session, and executive session; town claims, current and prewritten; wastewater sewer claims; wastewater sewage bond, grant, and payroll items. Public Comments & Testimony - No resident or audience member spoke during the FY 2027 budget public hearing, and the hearing was closed. - No one signed up for public comment for the regular meeting. Discussion Items FY 2027 Budget Public Hearing - Stonecypher said the notice to taxpayers was published on budgetnotices.in.gov on September 4, 2026, at 8:36 a.m., exceeding the required 10-day notice. - The proposed general fund (Fund 101) budget for 2027 is $21,632,939, with $11.2 million sought through the tax levy; this was described as the largest year-over-year increase, intended to address the town's operating deficit. - Total 2027 spending estimates across all statutory funds are $56,568,969, with a proposed levy described as 50 percent, or $28,267,310. - Year-over-year spending would increase by 8.42 percent, while the consumer price index is stated to be around 3.5 percent. - The budget was described as balanced but reliant on savings from the current year and reserves; Stonecypher encouraged the council to find additional savings for 2028 and beyond. - After the hearing, 10 or more taxpayers may file an objection petition with the Clerk-Treasurer's office within seven days. Consent Agenda and Regular Meeting Items - The council heard about Ordinance 2026 B01, the Maine and Clark project bond ordinance. The ordinance authorizes bonds not to exceed $4.6 million, maturing no later than 25 years; the project ask is $3.8 million, with the additional amount covering bond issuance fees. - On Ordinance 2026 G-16, amending the rental inspection program, a council member said the program did not appear to be paying dividends for the town and required more code-enforcement work than value received. The second reading was before the council; the transcript does not show a vote outcome. - Resolution 2026 R-15 amended South Clarksville allocation area number one. Discussion noted the expansion would support the Maine and Clark development, infrastructure improvements, and future connections such as Colgate to another TIF district if needed. The council approved the resolution by a raised-hand vote. - Ordinance 2026 G-17 creates a new non-reverting fund for building and construction related items, required by Indiana House Enrolled Act 1001 to be in place by January 1, 2027. The fund must be maintained as a separate line item and may not revert to the general fund or any other fund. The council changed the effective date to October 1, 2026, and approved the ordinance by voice/raised-hand vote. - An additional new-business item, 7.3, was set aside after discussion with the town manager was needed. Clerk-Treasurer Report on Local Income Tax Discussions - Stonecypher reported on the morning's MUST committee meeting with Clark County Councilman Linford, school districts, and Mayor Trava Hodges. - Discussion included a possible countywide 1.5 percent local income tax rate, described as making the town whole in essence but not fully given new homestead credits. Under one scenario, if the county adopted a 0.89 percent rate and municipalities set their own rates, the county would gain an additional $6 million to rebate. - Stonecypher noted that, because of the 1 percent constitutional circuit-breaker tax cap, most homeowners would not pay more than 1 percent of assessed value in property taxes. - The next meeting is set for Monday, September 28, 2026, most likely at 10 a.m. Police Chief, Permits, and Council Comments - The police chief thanked circuit court judges for visiting the station and recognized officers for a response on Sunday, including life-saving measures and follow-up search warrants. - A council member asked about constituent permit concerns. Glenn responded that some permits had been cleaned up, but contracted support was not available that week because of other commitments. - Council members discussed scheduling interviews for a permanent building commission and thanked developers, public safety personnel, and the Hanes family for the use of a facility. - The council promoted an October 17 community event, asking residents to bring chairs and family. Key Outcomes - The FY 2027 budget public hearing was closed without public testimony; an objection petition may be filed with the Clerk-Treasurer by taxpayers within seven days after the hearing. - Resolution 2026 R-15 expanding South Clarksville allocation area number one was approved. - Ordinance 2026 G-17 establishing the non-reverting building and construction fund was approved, effective October 1, 2026. - The council scheduled an executive session for Tuesday, September 22, 2026, on town management recruitment. - The next MUST committee meeting is Monday, September 28, 2026, likely at 10 a.m. - The transcript does not explicitly record the outcome of votes on the Maine and Clark bond ordinance or Ordinance 2026 G-16; no meeting minutes were provided to confirm those results.