Public Meetings - Clarksville, Indiana
Public Meetings - Clarksville, IndianaThe Clarksville Town Council held a regular meeting and work session on June 2, 2026. The meeting included consent agenda approvals, a vote to terminate the town manager's contract effective June 3, 2026, and discussions on an economic revitalization area (ERA) for a storage connections project, a public art mural, and a history walk proposed by St. Anthony Parish. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda items: minutes of joint town council regular meeting, work session, and executive sessions; claims of town current and pre-written wastewater, stormwater, bonds, grants, and payroll; and acceptance of minutes and placement on file. Motion by Mr. Stotz, second by Mr. Munich, passed unanimously. Discussion Items - Service Agreement with SGR (Strategic Government Resources): The council approved a service agreement for executive recruitment services with SGR, as presented. Motion by Karen Henderson, second by Ryan Ramsey, passed unanimously. - Clerk-Treasurer's Report: The Clerk-Treasurer reported progress on public records requests (57 of 58 completed, 5 new since last meeting), a new online request system via GovWell, and a cost estimate of $75,000 per year (plus $70,000 startup/training) for a paperless cloud invoicing and record-keeping system. He noted ongoing efforts to address the general fund deficit. - Fire Chief's Report: The Fire Chief reported a scheduled meeting with Mr. Stone Cypher for 2027 budget projections, ongoing grant applications (including for required firefighting PPE with matching grants), and updates on Fire Station 3 renovations (new bay doors, windows, interior work; expected completion in a few months). - Council Comments and Termination of Town Manager: During council comments, Councilman Munich moved to terminate the town manager's contract effective June 30, 2026. Councilwoman Schiller seconded. Town Manager Kevin Beatty requested the effective date be changed to June 3, 2026, citing lack of communication and a difficult work environment. Councilwoman Schiller accepted the amendment. After discussion, the amended motion passed 4-2-1 (4 in favor, 2 nay, 1 abstention). Some council members expressed disappointment, noting Beatty was named 2025 Town Manager of the Year and criticizing the process. Others argued the termination was necessary due to a costly prior contract error and desired a transition period. - ERA Creation for Storage Connections (Work Session): Nick from the Wheatley Group presented a proposal for a 10-year, 50% per year tax abatement for a 130,000 sq ft light industrial facility on US 31. Council members expressed concerns about granting abatements while increasing costs for residents. Councilwoman Henderson suggested exploring stipulations like requiring companies to pay 110% of county wage. The council indicated the item could be placed on a future meeting agenda. - Arts Commission Mural Request (Work Session): Corey Hain requested $15,000 for a mural on the public works building on Brown Station Way, celebrating the site's history as a drive-in. A grant of $4,000 from the Indiana Arts Commission is pending. Council members expressed strong support for the project. - St. Anthony History Walk (Work Session): A representative from St. Anthony Parish presented plans for a 4-mile history walk on October 10, 2026, as part of the parish's 175th anniversary. The walk would start in Jeffersonville and end in Clarksville. Guidance was sought on permits, coordination with departments (police, parks, technical review committee), and traffic control. The council agreed to assist with planning. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda approved unanimously. - Service agreement with SGR for executive recruitment approved unanimously. - Town manager contract terminated effective June 3, 2026, by a vote of 4-2-1. - ERA for Storage Connections to be considered for a future meeting agenda; council requested further research on wage stipulations. - Arts Commission mural request received support; $15,000 to be considered at a future meeting pending budget approval. - St. Anthony History Walk planning to proceed in coordination with town departments; official permits to be sought through the technical review committee.
The Clarksville Board of Zoning Appeals met on May 27, 2026, at 12:00 PM to consider five variance applications. The meeting included approval of previous minutes, discussion of proposed developments, and decisions on parking, height, setback, use, and smoke shop variances. Key outcomes included approvals for a senior living facility, a front porch addition, a pallet operation, and a smoke shop, while a trailer parking application was withdrawn to seek a sales variance. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The board unanimously approved the minutes from the previous meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke for or against any agenda item. Discussion Items - V268 – Semi‑Trailer Parking Variance (Cotter Drive & Progress Way): Applicant Chris Long (Prime AE) and property owner Corey Ward initially requested a use variance for semi‑trailer parking on a vacant lot. During discussion, they clarified the intended use as a showroom for new trailers (for Trophy Lease, a subsidiary of Apex Trailer), not general parking. Staff attorney Alex noted the public notice only covered parking, not sales, and that a separate variance would be needed for vehicle sales. After deliberation, the board voted to allow the withdrawal of the parking variance application so the applicant could reapply for a sales use variance. Motion to withdraw approved. - V260010 – Parking and Height Variances for Senior Living (2412 Admore Lane): Doug Sellers (Say Back Wilson and Lingo) and Josh Hooper (Beacon Properties) presented a 150‑unit senior independent living facility (Allen’s Place). They requested: - Parking variance: Reduce from 2 spaces per unit (300 spaces) to 1.5 spaces per unit (225 spaces). Staff noted that 8 of the last 10 multifamily projects in Clarksville had requested parking reductions, and the ordinance’s unit‑based requirement may be excessive, especially for seniors (average resident age 75). - Height variance: Increase from the R3‑zone limit of 40 ft to 52 ft 2 in to accommodate a sloped roof. The applicant argued a pitched roof is necessary for cost effectiveness and to screen rooftop HVAC units, and that the height is comparable to nearby hotels (Comfort Inn 53 ft, Candlewood Suites 52 ft). The board found a practical difficulty for both variances and approved them separately. Motion to approve parking variance passed. Motion to approve height variance passed. - V260011 – Front Yard Setback Variance (1507 Black Stanton View Drive): Applicant Yessi Hernandez requested a development standard variance to build a covered front porch extending 2 ft into the required 20‑ft front setback. Staff reported that the building line along the street varies, and strict application would create a practical difficulty. The board approved the variance unanimously. Motion to approve passed. - V260012 – Use Variance for Pallet Operation (2100 Future Drive): Charles Waters (A1 Pallets) requested a use variance to operate a pallet company on a 20‑acre I‑1 zoned site. The business currently operates at a legal non‑conforming location on Progress Way and is overcrowded. Staff noted that while there is no extraordinary need, the investment in the property and the need for more space constitute a hardship. The board approved the variance, emphasizing the relocation frees up the current site for redevelopment and the new site has a treed buffer from nearby residential uses. Motion to approve passed. - V260013 – Use Variance for Smoke Shop (1401 Veterans Parkway Court, Suite 200): Patrick Rooney represented applicant Salal Al Sumat, who had already leased and prepared the space for a smoke shop. The use is not permitted in the VPCZ zone. Staff revealed an email from September 2025 to a previous attorney (not the current one) stating the use was prohibited, but the applicant claimed they were told otherwise by city officials. The board found the six criteria for a use variance satisfied, including hardship due to the lease and permits already obtained, and approved the variance. Motion to approve passed. Key Outcomes - Withdrawal: V268 (semi‑trailer parking) withdrawn; applicant to seek a sales use variance. - Approved: V260010 – parking reduction (300 to 225 spaces) and height increase (40 ft to 52 ft 2 in) for Allen’s Place Senior Living. - Approved: V260011 – front porch setback reduction (2 ft into 20‑ft setback) at 1507 Black Stanton View Drive. - Approved: V260012 – use variance for A1 Pallets pallet operation at 2100 Future Drive. - Approved: V260013 – use variance for smoke shop at 1401 Veterans Parkway Court. - Next Steps: The board discussed cancelling the June 2026 meeting due to only three members being available. No further applications had been received as of the meeting date.
The Clarksville Town Council held a regular meeting and subsequent work session on May 19, 2026. The meeting began with recognition of two Cornerstone Award recipients, followed by approval of the consent agenda, a public hearing and approval of additional appropriations, and approval of an access easement. The council also received reports from the clerk-treasurer and department heads. During the work session, the council discussed amendments to the animal control ordinance concerning pet stores and the addition of ducks to the poultry ordinance. A vote was taken to approve an agreement with SGR. Recognition - Councilwoman Henderson presented the first two Clarksville Cornerstone Awards, honoring locally owned businesses operating 50+ years: Chapman Funeral Home (founded 1950, current owner Todd Watts) and Clarksville Little Theater (founded 1947, current president Jason Lindsay). Both were recognized for their lasting contributions to the community. Regular Meeting Consent Calendar - Items 5-1 (minutes of May 12 meetings), 5-2 (claims and payroll), and 5-3 (acceptance of minutes) were approved 7-0 by roll call. Public Hearing - A public hearing was held regarding additional appropriations in excess of the 2026 budget. No members of the public spoke in favor or opposition. The hearing was closed. New Business - 7-1 Approval of Additional Appropriations for 2026: Ordinance 2026-BUD02 authorizing additional appropriations in the CCI fund (motor fuel system replacement), ARP fund (fire station 3 rehabilitation), and Supplemental Adult Probation fund (court expenses) was approved on first reading by a 7-0 roll call vote. A second reading and vote also passed 7-0. - 7-3 Access Easement Agreement with Kentucky Utilities Company: The council approved an agreement granting an access easement at 1205 West Harrison Avenue to allow Kentucky Utilities to rehabilitate a transmission tower at 1201 West Harrison. The work is to last less than 180 days, with a site restoration requirement. Approved 7-0. Reports - Clerk-Treasurer Stone Cypher reported that the town is conducting an internal audit of bank fees, noted that the budget must be balanced within two meetings, and urged the council to bring back the failed Resolution 9 (regarding TIFF funds for public safety) for compromise. He suggested a percentage-based rule for free cash flow. He also reported that the fire territory is about 12 weeks over budget and relying on emergency reserves; parks are about 6 weeks over but expected to recover with pool opening. He stated that 56 public records requests have been received this year, with 49 closed. - Fire Chief Wilson and another department head expressed support for amending Resolution 9 to allow access to redevelopment funds for public safety, emphasizing the fire territory's financial strain and need for stable funding. Council Comments - Councilman Stotz expressed concern about proposed actions regarding the town manager, stating it could cost the town over $200,000, and said he was not happy with the direction. - Councilman Munich raised concerns about Origin Park's event traffic using Francis Avenue as an entrance contrary to prior assurances, and about security at a prom event. - Councilwoman Voiner reiterated disagreement with using TIFF money for salaries because it is a finite fund, and emphasized the importance of not leaving future councils in debt. She also noted that the park entrance issue may have been due to standing water. - Other council members wished everyone a safe Memorial Day weekend and encouraged attendance at the memorial ceremony. Work Session Discussion: Animal Control Ordinance (Pet Store) - Town attorney Chris Sturgeon prepared changes requiring in-person veterinarian examinations within a certain timeframe and minimum enclosure sizes for pet shops. A separate proposed draft from Humane World for Animals (Indiana State Director Samantha Chapman) was also discussed. Chapman noted that Indiana law allows telemedicine, potentially bypassing in-person vet requirements, and recommended language to close that loophole. She offered free legal support. - Citizen Jen Bug (301 South Clark Boulevard) advocated for provisions on isolation for contagious disease, access to veterinary records during inspections, solid and supportive flooring (citing photos of puppies' legs falling through grid flooring), and clearer enforcement pathways. She said she had observed problems at the pet store since its opening last Black Friday. - Citizen Jeff Callaway (906 Pennsylvania Avenue) urged the council to act quickly, stating that animals continue to suffer while the process drags on. - The council agreed that Attorney Sturgeon will produce an updated redline draft incorporating the Humane World proposal and circulate it for review before formal introduction. Discussion: Adding Ducks to Chicken Ordinance - The council considered amending the animal control and zoning ordinances to permit ducks in addition to chickens. Current code prohibits ducks. - Councilwoman Schiller noted that ducks require more water and can be messier; she suggested limiting the number and possibly requiring only females to prevent mating harm to chickens (as male ducks have a corkscrew reproductive organ that can injure chickens). - Katie Morgan (2708 Hollywood Boulevard), the duck owner, said she obtained a chicken permit misunderstanding it covered ducks. She has three well-cared-for ducks and presented neighbors who support them. Benefits include mosquito control and nutritious eggs. Her husband Brian Morgan, a disabled veteran, stated that the ducks aid his PTSD treatment and presented a doctor's letter. Neighbor Amanda Alexander (11 Lakeview) testified that the ducks are not a nuisance and are well managed. - Town attorney Neil recommended that since the zoning ordinance change must go through the Plan Commission (next meeting after the council meeting), a final vote would take two council meetings. The council agreed to suspend enforcement of the duck prohibition pending ordinance amendment. Council will vote on the change at a future meeting. Motion to Suspend Rules and Approve SGR Agreement - The council voted to suspend the rules to consider an agreement with SGR for professional services. A motion and second were made, followed by a roll call vote. The motion passed 7-0. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved 7-0. - Additional appropriations ordinance approved on first and second readings, each 7-0. - Access easement with Kentucky Utilities approved 7-0. - SGR agreement approved 7-0 after suspending rules. - Animal control ordinance (pet store) amendments will be drafted and reviewed before formal introduction. - Duck ordinance enforcement suspended; council will consider adding ducks to the poultry ordinance; a vote is expected at a future meeting after Plan Commission review. - Clerk-treasurer directed to work on budget balancing and possible compromise on Resolution 9. - Public hearing for additional appropriations held with no opposition.
The Clarksville Town Council held its regular meeting on May 12, 2026, at 11:15 AM (EDT), followed by a work session. The meeting included public comments, approval of routine items, debate on a TIFF amendment, and a vote on rezoning 3165 Taylor Drive. The work session featured a middle school STEM presentation and a major redevelopment proposal for the former Colgate campus (Clark's Landing). Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from April 21, 2026 (regular meeting, work session, executive session). - Approved claims (current and pre-written), wastewater sewer claims and bonds, grants, payroll, and placement of file. All passed 6-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Jim (2813 Victory Court): Opposed the Taylor Drive development, citing safety concerns after a sidewalk incident and theft. Stated a 20-foot box truck cannot navigate the narrow road. - Thomas White (last house on Beach Lawn Drive): Stated he and a dozen neighbors are 100% opposed; noted that under R3 zoning, up to 82 units could be built, changing the neighborhood. - Rhonda Curd (Taylor Drive, 25+ years): Opposed development; described the Everhart property's history and asked who would pay for damage to Taylor Drive from construction traffic. - Jason Price (2118 Blackston Mill Road): Requested a sidewalk on Blackston Mill Road, citing pedestrian danger and high vehicle speeds; also asked for police enforcement. - Steve Blake (2710 Hollywood Boulevard): Supported neighbor's right to keep ducks under chicken-like regulations; noted four ducks is reasonable. - Pat Smith (2706 Hollywood Boulevard): Supported ducks as good pets, no nuisance. - Brenda Molina (3136 Taylor Drive): Expressed concern as a realtor and resident; stated the neighborhood has only 71 homes, roads are narrow, and a 30+ unit development would add 150–200 vehicle trips daily. - Betty Herrick (3010 Taylor Drive): Described decades of problems with adjacent Pioneer Village Apartments (dumpster noise, fires, property damage, domestic disputes) and opposed adding more density. - Randall Eidens (502 Graham Street): Requested the Taylor Drive rezoning be tabled to present verified facts to council. - Janet Brummett (1718 Godford Road): Criticized the applicant for presenting an incomplete plan (retention pond, parking not drawn); urged denial due to Taylor Drive's 22-foot width. Discussion Items - Item 7.1 – Floodway Habitat Mitigation Easement: Approval of $88,000 perpetual easement for tree/shrub planting in Silver Creek floodway. Passed 6-0. - Item 7.2 – Settlement Agreement with Nicholas Landing: Resolved 2024 PILOT tax exemption filing dispute; $50,000 payment to town. Passed 6-0. - Item 7.3 – Insurance Broker of Record: Assured Partners recommended as town's broker after RFQ process. Passed 6-0. - Item 7.4 – Interlocal Agreement with Clark County for Potters Lane Paving: Resolution 2026 R08. Passed 6-0. - Item 7.5 – Commercial Economic Development Area Plan Amendment (TIFF): Proposed allowing TIFF funds for police and fire operating expenses. Councilmembers debated. Vote: 3-3 (President McEwen broke tie against), failed 4-3. - Item 7.6 – Rezoning 3165 Taylor Drive (R1 to R3): Plan Commission recommended unfavorable (7-0). Council moved to deny; passed 6-0 after extensive public opposition. - Item 7.7 – Rezoning 208 West Cornell Drive (I-1 to R1): Plan Commission recommended favorable (6-1). Passed 6-0. - Item 7.8 – Rezoning 1420 Baxter Avenue (B2 to Veterans Parkway Corridor): Passed 6-0. Key Outcomes - Taylor Drive rezoning denied (6-0), preserving R1 zoning. - TIFF amendment defeated (4-3), leaving current fund uses unchanged. Clerk-Treasurer Stonecypher noted the town faces a budget gap and only three meetings remain to submit the 2027 preliminary budget. - Work Session – Middle School STEM Presentation: Planning Director Neil Turpin and Associate Planner Kaylee Malloy recognized Clarksville Middle School students for designing Clark's Landing in Minecraft. Awards given for Outstanding Urban Planning, Best Practices in Green Space, and Best Practice in Placemaking. - Work Session – Clark's Landing (Colgate Campus) Redevelopment: Bill Wayland and Barry Alberts (Wayland Ventures) and Jim Epperson (Southern Indiana Tourism) presented plans for a $400–500 million mixed-use development including a conference center (in historic building), Marriott hotel (175 rooms), retail, residential, youth sports facilities (indoor soccer, basketball, volleyball), and public green spaces. The project would rely on a project-based TIF and state/federal tax credits. Council suspended rules and unanimously approved Resolution 2026 R10 supporting the project, allowing an IEDC grant application for pre-development funds. Clerk-Treasurer Report - State Board of Accounts conducting annual audit; report expected next month. - 54 public records requests year-to-date; seven pending; online portal now active. - Reminded council of the 10th annual Memorial Weekend Ceremony on May 24 at 2 PM in the garden.
The Clarksville Plan Commission met on May 6, 2026 at 7:00 PM at the Town Municipal Building. The meeting covered several zoning and development items, including a controversial rezoning request on Taylor Drive that drew substantial public opposition. The commission also approved a flex space development plan, a rezoning on Cornell Avenue, a rezoning and subdivision on Vaxter Street, and a resolution regarding police and fire capital expenditures. All items with favorable recommendations will be forwarded to the Town Council. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the April 1, 2026 regular session were approved unanimously by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - REZ-26-0001 (3165 Taylor Drive): Numerous residents from Taylor Drive, Victory Court, Beach Lawn Drive, Nashwood Drive, and surrounding streets spoke in opposition to the proposed rezoning from R1 to R3. Key concerns included: traffic congestion on a narrow, half-mile dead-end street; inadequate emergency vehicle access; lack of sidewalks; drainage and flooding issues; loss of wildlife habitat; potential decrease in property values; increased crime risk; and the absence of a secondary exit. Residents presented a petition with signatures and urged the commission to deny the rezoning, emphasizing that the character of the quiet, single-family neighborhood would be fundamentally altered. A few residents also noted that the public notice sign was hidden behind a woodpile and that mailed notices arrived late. One resident questioned the applicant's initial representation of only six additional units versus the later mention of 27. Discussion Items - DP-26-0002, Development Plan for Flex Space, Appleleaf Lane: The applicant, Nathan Grimes, requested development plan approval for a 160x60 foot commercial building with two contractor flex space units on a vacant site. Staff reported that all TRC recommendations had been addressed, and a recorded easement for fire access was required before construction. The applicant confirmed the easement would be recorded. No public comments. The commission approved the plan 7-0 with the condition. - REZ-26-0001, Rezoning of 3165 Taylor Drive from R1 to R3: Randall Eadens proposed rezoning a 4.6-acre property at the end of Taylor Drive to allow a triplex conversion of the existing home (Phase 1) and up to 27 additional townhomes/patio homes (Phase 2). Staff noted that R3 zoning could theoretically allow up to 82 units under density standards, but the applicant's concept was for fewer units. Concerns about road width (measured at less than 22 feet), lack of turnaround, and infrastructure were discussed. After extensive public testimony, a motion to send an unfavorable recommendation to the Town Council was made, citing neighborhood character, inadequate road and emergency access, and insufficient detail on Phase 2. The motion passed by voice vote (all ayes). - REZ-26-0002, Rezoning of 208 W Cornell Ave from I1 to R1: Chris King requested rezoning to build a single-family residence next to his business. Staff reported that the surrounding area is primarily residential and that the rezoning would be consistent with the comprehensive plan. No public comments. A motion for a favorable recommendation passed 6-0-1 (one abstention). - REZ-26-0003 and SD-26-0005, Rezoning and Subdivision Plat for 1420 Vaxter Street: The Town of Clarksville staff requested rezoning from B2 to Veterans Parkway Corridor Zone (VPCZ) and plat approval to split the property, allowing sale of the main lot while retaining a cell tower lot. The rezoning would ensure future development aligns with surrounding area standards. No public comments. A favorable recommendation for the rezoning passed 7-0. The subdivision plat was approved 7-0, conditioned on the Town Council following the rezoning recommendation. - Approval of Clarksville RDC Resolution for Police and Fire Capital Expenditures: Staff presented a resolution required to amend the TIFF plan, allowing the Redevelopment Commission to use TIFF funds for police and fire capital and operating expenses. After a brief recess to provide commissioners with the full resolution, staff confirmed it complies with the comprehensive plan. The motion to approve passed with one abstention. The resolution will now go to the Town Council and then to the Redevelopment Commission for a public hearing. Key Outcomes - DP-26-0002: Approved 7-0 with condition of recorded fire access easement. - REZ-26-0001: Unfavorable recommendation sent to Town Council (vote unanimous). - REZ-26-0002: Favorable recommendation sent to Town Council (6-0-1). - REZ-26-0003: Favorable recommendation sent to Town Council (7-0). - SD-26-0005: Subdivision plat approved 7-0, conditioned on Council approval of rezoning. - RDC Resolution: Approved with one abstention; proceeds to Town Council (May 12) and Redevelopment Commission (May 26). - June Meeting Date: Proposed rescheduling to June 10, 2026, pending commissioner availability; final decision to be communicated via email.
The Clarksville Redevelopment Commission held two executive sessions on April 28, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., both closed to the public in accordance with Indiana Code. The sessions were scheduled to discuss pending litigation, property acquisition/lease/transfer/exchange or sale, and economic development matters. Notice and Statutory Basis - The first executive session (6:30 p.m.) cited Litigation [I.C. 5-14-1.5-6.1(b)(2)(B)], Property [I.C. 5-14-1.5-6.1(b)(2)(D)], and Economic Development [I.C. 5-14-1.5-6.1(b)(4)]. - The second executive session (7:30 p.m.) cited the same three statutory reasons: Litigation, Property, and Economic Development. Public Comments & Testimony No public comments or testimony were taken, as the meetings were executive sessions closed to the public. Key Outcomes No decisions or votes were publicly recorded. The commission discussed matters in executive session, and no public action was reported. Future public actions, if any, would be taken at a regular public meeting. Note: No transcript or minutes were available; this summary is based solely on the publicly posted agenda notice.
The Clarksville Board of Zoning Appeals met on Wednesday, April 22, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. at the Clarksville Administration Building. The board voted on a use variance for an auto auction, tabled a variance for semi-truck parking, and approved a sign variance. Board members present included David Davis, Lois Englebretson, Rick Riggle, Kenny Brown, and Cary Stemle. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes – The minutes from the March 25, 2026 regular session were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Bob Peters (Clarksville Schwinn, 111 W Lewis & Clark) – Expressed support for the auto auction variance (V-26-0006), stating he saw no problem with property values and describing the applicant's operation as clean and neat. Discussion Items - V-26-0006 – Use Variance for Proposed Auto Auction, 125 W Lewis & Clark – Staff presented the original staff report and a supplemental narrative from the applicant. Attorney John Kraft (Young Lynderson Kraft) appeared on behalf of applicant James "JB" Butner. The applicant sought a use variance to hold auto auctions approximately once per month during normal business hours (weekdays 9-7, Saturdays 9-6) at an existing used car dealership. Staff noted auto auctions are not permitted in the B2 zone but are mentioned in I1 with a special exception. The applicant argued that state licensing requirements create a practical difficulty and that the property is large enough (over 5 acres) to accommodate the use without negative impacts. Applicant James Butner testified that auction vehicles would be stored on site for a limited time (30 days for repossessions), that cars would be operable and not wrecked, and that buyers would pick up vehicles within 24 hours. The board discussed conditions, including a one-year trial period beginning with the first auction. The board also considered whether to set a 6-month or 12-month review period and opted for 12 months. - V-26-0008 – Use Variance for Semi Parking, Koetter Drive – Staff reported the applicant (Apex Trailer) requested a use variance to develop a parking lot for 81 semi-trucks and trailers on a vacant 4.98-acre parcel in the Veterans Parkway Corridor Zone (VPCZ). Parking as a principal use is not permitted in any zone. The applicant's representative, Clifton Carter, stated the project manager was unavailable and could not answer key questions about the property's history or need. The board voted to table the item at the applicant's request so the primary project manager could attend a future meeting. - V-26-0009 – Variance for Signage, 501 E Lewis & Clark – Staff reported the proposed wall sign extended above the roofline, violating the ordinance (table 200-6-1). The previous business had a similar sign installed in 2011. David Michael (SES Branding) explained the new sign is nearly 50% smaller (161 sq ft vs. 346.5 sq ft) and shorter (60 inches vs. 82 inches). He noted the pylon sign is difficult to see due to vegetation, making the wall sign necessary for wayfinding. The board found that strict application would result in a practical difficulty, as a compliant sign would be only about 8 inches tall. The board approved the variance with no conditions. Key Outcomes - V-26-0006 Approved – Motion to approve the use variance with conditions: auctions limited to once per month during business hours; all auction vehicles must be operable and not wrecked; the variance is valid for 12 months beginning with the first auction; the applicant must notify staff of the first auction date; the applicant agreed to all commitments in the original narrative (no amplified sound, no new construction, staff on-site for traffic control). Vote: unanimous. - V-26-0008 Tabled – Motion to accept the applicant's request to table passed unanimously. No vote on the variance. - V-26-0009 Approved – Motion to approve the sign variance based on the sign being smaller than the original and the distance from the road causing visibility concerns. No conditions. Vote: unanimous. - Adjournment – Meeting adjourned after a motion and second.
The Clarksville Town Council convened on April 21, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. for a regular meeting followed by a work session. The council unanimously approved several routine items, heard a presentation from an Eagle Scout candidate, and received a detailed fiscal report from the Clerk-Treasurer outlining options to address an estimated $1.3 million shortfall in the general fund. No public comments were made. Consent Calendar - Minutes of April 7, 2026 – Approved as revised (corrected to reflect denial of Resolution 5 and approval of the Kenning Shell agreement). - Claims – Approved with corrected total of $156,251.24 for town current and pre-written, wastewater, bonds, grants, and payroll. - Acceptance of minutes for placement on file. - All consent items passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public registered to speak. Discussion Items Approval of Employee Health Insurance Renewal (7.1) - Town Manager Beatty presented the renewal, noting the current policy runs through May 31, 2026. After market analysis, the insurance committee recommended staying with existing carriers: UMR/United Health Care (medical), VSP (vision), and One America (life and disability). Premiums will see a net decrease of approximately $72,938 overall, including a 1.37% medical decrease, 5.19% vision decrease, 12.9% life decrease, and 47.5% long-term disability decrease. The council approved the renewal unanimously (7-0). Purchase of Fuel Dispenser System (7.2) - The existing 25‑year‑old fuel system at Town Hall campus is obsolete. A quote from Oscar Lawson Company for $24,759.60 was accepted to replace the dispensing pumps and line sets. Funds were available from the CCD fund. The purchase was approved unanimously (7-0). Council Member Comments - Several council members expressed gratitude for the successful Thunder Over Louisville event and the first concert series of the season. They thanked the police, fire, and public works departments, as well as staff, for their efforts. The next concert is scheduled for May 9, 2026, featuring the band Jackjaw and The Crashers. Work Session: Eagle Scout Project – First Responder Memorial Wall - Scoutmaster Gary Noakes introduced Life Scout Ryan Busey, who proposed constructing a first responder memorial wall at a location adjacent to the Veterans Place Memorial. Two potential sites were identified: northeast side (near fire station) or west side (across from the flag retirement area). Ryan described a brick wall (8 ft long, 5 ft tall, 1.5 ft wide) on a concrete circle with two benches, listing names of fallen first responders from Clark County. Estimated cost: $2,500. Fundraising would come from donations. The council gave tentative approval, with staff to assist with site selection and design. Council members suggested using granite for durability and recommended contacting local businesses for donations. Work Session: TIF District Report and General Fund Budget Discussion - Clerk‑Treasurer Stone Cipher presented the statutorily required TIF district report for calendar year 2025. Total TIF revenues were $11,936,506 (including $2.2 million from real estate liquidation). Expenditures totaled $8,942,048 for legacy TIF and $42,000 for The Bend TIF, leaving a combined fund balance of approximately $4.91 million. The report also detailed grants to schools ($400,000 distributed among four districts based on student population). - Cipher then presented a “menu of conceptual options” to address an estimated $1.3 million general fund shortfall for the current fiscal year. Revenue options discussed included: a $5/month trash fee on sewer bills, a per‑foot street cut fee (currently $10 flat; Jeffersonville charges $0.75/foot – council suggested $1/foot), a wheel tax (estimated $160,000/year), a $100/month take‑home vehicle rental fee, and increased interest from rainy day reserves. Cost‑reduction options included a working spouse exemption from the health plan (potential savings of $322,000 to $645,000) and a 2% across‑the‑board department cut (about $400,000). Cipher stressed that $700,000 in actions are already underway, but council action within the next six weeks is needed to finalize the 2026 budget and prepare for 2027. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved unanimously. - Health insurance renewal approved (7-0). - Fuel dispenser purchase approved (7-0). - Eagle Scout memorial wall project given tentative approval; staff to assist with design and permitting. - Budget discussion – No formal vote taken. Council will consider revenue and reduction options over the coming weeks, with a goal of balancing the general fund by early June 2026.
The Town Council met on April 7, 2026, for its regular meeting followed by a work session. The agenda included a public hearing, consent agenda, and multiple new business items covering tax abatements, interlocal agreements, easements, liquor licenses, and financial settlements. Key outcomes included the denial of a tax abatement for Classic Truss, approval of a recycling interlocal agreement, and after extended discussion, approval of a wastewater account settlement. The work session also featured a presentation on employee benefit renewals. Public Comments & Testimony - Jen Bug (301 South Clark Boulevard) spoke in support of a citizen-led microchip scanning station initiative for lost pets. She reported that a 24/7 station installed in Old Clarksville last May has been widely used, and three additional stations have recently been placed in Clarksville, New Albany, and Jeffersonville. She encouraged council members to host stations in their districts, describing the $75 cost and low maintenance. No opposition or other public comments were offered. Public Hearing - Public Hearing on Classic Truss Economic Revitalization Area (ERA): The hearing was opened as required for the proposed ERA. No members of the public spoke in favor or opposition. The hearing was closed, and the item moved to a vote later in the meeting. Consent Calendar - Approved as a block with the addition of executive session minutes from March 11, 2026 (previously missing from the agenda). The consent agenda included minutes from March 17, 2026, claims of the town, and acceptance of minutes from boards/commissions/committees. Discussion Items - Appointment to Insurance Committee: Diane Edelin was appointed to the Insurance Committee by motion and unanimous vote, after brief discussion of her background with Clarksville Community Schools. - Resolution 2026-R-05 – Classic Truss ERA and SB-1 Abatement: Councilman Ramsey expressed opposition, noting the company’s estimated $45 million annual revenue and the poor condition of Blackiston Mill Road due to heavy truck traffic. He moved to disapprove the resolution. The motion to not move forward (i.e., to deny the ERA creation) passed with one opposed vote, effectively killing the tax abatement. - Resolution 2026-R-06 – Interlocal Agreement for Recycling Services: Approved 6–1–1 (one abstention from the council president due to his role on the Clark County Recycling District Board, one vote against). The agreement continues curbside recycling in Clarksville and other Clark County communities at $34 per year per improved residential address, collected via property taxes. No rate increase was noted. - Resolution 2026-R-07 – Surplus Property: Unanimously approved, authorizing disposal of surplus town assets per state code. - Contract Extension for Landscaping Services (Raymond’s Lawn Care): Approved 6–1 (one abstention). The two-year extension continues mowing and maintenance of medians and town campus without cost increase. - Liquor License for River Heritage Conservancy (Vista): Approved 7–0, after review and recommendation from the Redevelopment Commission. The three-way license is for the Origin Park Riverfront Development District. - Acquisition of Easement from G&G Properties: Approved unanimously for sanitary sewer work near I-65 and I-265, at a negotiated cost of $60,000 for 0.93 acres temporary and 2.73 acres permanent easements. - Grant of Easement to Indiana American Water: Approved unanimously for a water transmission line along Blackiston Mill Road, continuing a multi-phase project. - Contract for Legal Services – Chris Sturgeon: Approved unanimously at $175 per hour for 2026, the same rate as 2025. - Grant of Easement to LG&E and Acceptance of Real Estate: Approved 7–0. The easement expands from 100 to 175 feet; LG&E transfers four parcels to the town in exchange. - Wastewater Account Settlement with JK Clarksville LLC (Radisson Hotel): The item was originally tabled after council members expressed concern about lack of prior notification and incomplete information. During the subsequent work session, the council heard detailed testimony from the hotel’s attorney (John Kraft) and maintenance manager (Tom Brown), who explained that a past verbal agreement for meter credits had lapsed. After discussion, the council voted to suspend the rules and approved the settlement 5–2. The settlement credits the hotel $191,854.25 for water not entering the sewer system, offsets the current balance and a recent bill, and leaves a net payment of $6,253.25 to the town. - Stormwater Payment Deferral Agreement: Approved 7–0 for Clarksville Plaza rehabilitation. Deferred fees will be repaid over 12 months starting January 2027 or upon new tenancy. - Award of Bid – 2026-2 Community Crossings Paving Program: Approved 7–0, awarding the contract to Libs Paving at not to exceed $1,856,933. The program will mill and repave streets including Blackiston Mill Road and Parkwood neighborhood, funded by a state grant ($900,522) and a 100% local match. Key Outcomes - Denied: Resolution 2026-R-05 (Classic Truss ERA/abatement) – motion to disapprove passed with one opposed vote. - Approved: All other new business items, with the wastewater settlement approved 5–2 after being tabled and reconsidered in the work session. - Vote Tallies (where recorded): - Recycling interlocal: 6 yes, 1 no, 1 abstention - Landscape extension: 6 yes, 1 abstention - Liquor license: 7–0 - Easements and legal contract: unanimous or 7–0 - Wastewater settlement: 5–2 after suspension of rules - Stormwater deferral: 7–0 - Paving contract: 7–0 - Next Steps: The employee benefits renewal (medical, dental, vision, life/disability) was presented in the work session; the insurance committee recommends staying with existing carriers. Formal action will be taken at the April 21, 2026 meeting. The clerk-treasurer will present a budget work session and return on investment report on April 21. The council will consider amending the ordinance to potentially allow ducks (currently only chickens) in a future work session.