Public Meetings - Clarksville, Indiana

The Clarksville Board of Zoning Appeals met on March 25, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at the Clarksville Administration Building. The board considered seven variance requests, including a proposed Texas Roadhouse pole sign, a residential produce stand, landscaping and setback variances for new homes, a fence and shed variance, a use variance for an auto auction, and lot width and landscaping variances for a three-lot subdivision. Public comments were received on several items. Multiple votes were taken, with some approvals, one denial (defeated motion), and one tabling. Consent Calendar - The minutes of the February 25, 2026, regular session were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - V-26-0003 (Residential Produce Stand): A letter from neighbors Joseph and Jenna Smith (2706 Hollywood) objected to the proposed vegetable cart operation, citing concerns about increased traffic, parking congestion, noise, impact on property values, and precedent for commercial uses in a residential area. - V-26-0006 (Auto Auction): Bob Peters, a neighbor at 111 West Lewis & Clark, spoke in support, stating the Butner family runs a class act and the auction would be good for the community. Discussion Items V-26-0002: Texas Roadhouse Sign Variance (4615 Medical Plaza Way) Brandon Goldberg (Greenberg Farrell) and Doug Druin (Texas Roadhouse) requested a variance for a 60-foot pole sign (189 sq. ft.) in a MED zone where pole signs are prohibited. The property is lower than the interstate, making wayfinding difficult. The applicant noted that the removal of an existing billboard (approx. 52 ft. tall) would reduce overall sign area. The board discussed reducing the height to 52 ft., matching the billboard height. A motion to approve the full 60 ft. height failed 2-2. A subsequent motion to approve a height of 52 ft. (with the condition that the billboard be removed) passed 3-0. The board also approved the location and size of the sign (with the height reduced) citing the unique circumstances and removal of the billboard. V-26-0003: Residential Produce Stand (2708 Hollywood Boulevard) Brian Morgan sought a use variance to sell homegrown vegetables from a rollaway cart. The staff report noted that selling produce inside the home or garage is permitted, but a roadside stand would require a variance. The applicant stated he currently gives away excess produce and would accept donations, not fixed prices. The board determined that the proposed operation, as described (donations, no fixed pricing), did not constitute a commercial business and therefore a variance was not needed. The board voted unanimously that the variance is not required under the current circumstances. V-26-0004: Setback and Landscaping Variances (217, 219, 221, 223 E. Winbourne) Erik Merton (Prima Varen Associates) requested a 50% reduction in landscaping requirements (due to small lot sizes) and a rear setback variance for lot 223 (due to an alley cutting into the lot). The board approved all four landscaping variances (50% tree reduction) and the rear setback variance, each by unanimous vote, citing the small lot sizes and existing infrastructure constraints. V-26-0005: Fence and Shed Setback Variance (545 W. Kenwood) Jennifer Netherton requested a variance to place a 6-ft. privacy fence and a 10x16 shed in the front yard because Silver Creek creates a steep drop-off in the backyard, leaving no usable space. The board approved both the fence variance (to allow privacy fencing in the front yard) and the shed variance, citing the unique topography (creek drop-off) and lack of alternative locations. V-26-0006: Use Variance for Proposed Auto Auction (125 W. Lewis & Clark) JB Butner (Jim Butner Auto Group) requested a use variance to hold monthly auto auctions at an existing used car dealership in a B-2 zone. The staff report indicated concerns about traffic, storage of vehicles, and impacts on nearby residential properties. The applicant proposed monthly auctions (likely quarterly) during business hours, with no amplified sound, and vehicles stored behind the main buildings. The board discussed the need to meet criteria C, D, and F (peculiar property condition, hardship, extraordinary need). The applicant could not clearly demonstrate these criteria. The board voted to table the item to the April 22, 2026 meeting to allow the applicant to gather additional evidence. V-26-0007: Lot Width and Landscaping Variances (527 W. Stansifer) Nick Hunter (Will House Homes) requested variances to subdivide a 90-ft. lot into three 30.67-ft. wide lots (minimum 40 ft.) and reduce landscaping requirements by 50%. The applicant argued that the market demands smaller lots, citing nearby South Valley development and letters of support from neighbors. The board approved the lot width variance (30.67 ft.) and the landscaping variance (with specifics left to staff), both unanimously, citing the practical difficulty of meeting the standards on infill lots and the support from neighbors. Key Outcomes - V-26-0002 (Texas Roadhouse Sign): Approved with conditions: sign height reduced to 52 ft., existing billboard to be removed. Location and size (189 sq. ft.) approved. Vote: 3-0. - V-26-0003 (Produce Stand): No variance needed; board voted unanimously that the activity (donations, no fixed pricing) does not constitute a business requiring a variance. - V-26-0004 (E. Winbourne Lots): All four landscaping variances (50% reduction) and the rear setback variance for lot 223 approved unanimously. - V-26-0005 (Fence and Shed): Fence variance (privacy fence in front yard) and shed variance approved unanimously. - V-26-0006 (Auto Auction): Tabled to April 22, 2026, meeting for additional evidence on criteria C, D, and F. - V-26-0007 (W. Stansifer): Lot width variance (30.67 ft.) and landscaping variance (reduction to be determined by staff) approved unanimously. - Meeting adjourned after the last item.

No agenda, minutes, or transcript were provided for this meeting. Therefore, no summary of proceedings, discussions, or decisions can be generated.

The Clarksville Town Council held a regular meeting followed by a work session on March 17, 2026. The regular meeting included a proclamation for National Safe Place Week, a recognition of a $6 million settlement from litigation with Theater X, public comments, approval of a consent agenda, and action on several new business items. The work session featured presentations on a potential stormwater fee waiver for a redevelopment project and a drone-based deer herd survey at Origin Park. Recognitions and Proclamations - Council issued a proclamation recognizing March 15-21, 2026 as National Safe Place Week, encouraging community awareness and volunteer involvement. - Town Manager announced the successful conclusion of litigation with Theater X, resulting in a $6 million cash settlement deposited into town accounts. Attorney Craig Pfeiffer was recognized for his work on the case. Public Comments & Testimony - Chris Andre (Georgetown resident) proposed the development of a large indoor sports facility in Clarksville, citing accessibility to interstates and potential to repurpose vacant retail space. He offered to serve as the lead private partner.n- Jen Bug (301 South Clark Boulevard) urged the council to adopt a local ordinance for pet store animal welfare inspections, noting that state oversight is limited. She reported that Jeffersonville is considering similar action. Consent Agenda - Approved 6-0: Meeting minutes from March 3, 2026; claims for various funds; acceptance of minutes from boards, commissions, and committees; acceptance of conflict of interest statement. New Business - 7.1 Duke Energy Easement: Approved 5-1 to grant a permanent easement along Kinwood Drive and Crogan Drive for electric lines to serve the Origin Park Events Center and existing lights.n - 7.2 Meeting Date Change: Approved 6-0 to move the May 5, 2026 regular meeting to Tuesday, May12, 2026 due to election conflicts.n - 7.3 Resolution 2026 R04 – Classic Trust Economic Revitalization Area: Approved (unanimous voice vote) to establish an ERA for CBT Holding Company LLC at 2709 Blackeston Mill Road, enabling future property tax abatement consideration.n - 7.4 Firefighters Union CBA Amendment: Approved 6-0 to temporarily reduce minimum shift staffing from 13 to 11 firefighters to manage overtime costs. The amendment expires at year-end unless extended. Clerk-Treasurer Report - Clerk-Treasurer reported receipt of the $6 million settlement, which was placed in the Trust Indiana investment pool. He noted the town faces significant budget pressure, including a potential $2 million general fund cut and $840,000 additional cost from the new police contract. He requested a work session to discuss the general fund and highlighted topics from the state clerk conference (AI bot ordinances, opioid fund pooling, town controller options, sewer bank approval). Department Head Updates - Tammy (Redevelopment) announced a groundbreaking for "The George" on March 26, 2026 at 11 a.m., and reported that the town received the Outstanding Transportation Planning Award from the Indiana Chapter of the American Planning Association for the Clarksville Trails Master Plan. Council Comments - Council members expressed gratitude to the fire department for the collaborative approach, celebrated the community crossing grant ($1 million from INDOT for road projects), and acknowledged staff work on the trails award. Work Session – Presentations - Kenny Shell (Clarksville Plaza redeveloper): Explained the $2 million investment and requested a waiver of the monthly $1,350 stormwater fee while the property has no income. He described upcoming tenants including a 55,000-square-foot entertainment complex with electric go-karts, a conspiracy-theory-themed mini-golf course ("The Rabbit Hole Conspiracy Links"), and a bunker bar. The request was taken under advisement. - Deer Herd Survey Presentation: Mac Spainhour (retired Indiana conservation officer) introduced Dave and Savannah Barrett (Hoos Your South Drone Services), who conducted a voluntary drone survey of Origin Park on March 8, 2026. They reported observing 53 healthy deer, three coyotes, and no signs of overbrowsing or disease. Thepresentation included a map and recognition that deer populations fluctuate seasonally. Council was informed that the park has decided not to proceed with the planned deer reduction initiative. Key Outcomes - Approved consent agenda, Duke Energy easement, meeting date change, ERA resolution, and firefighter union CBA amendment with specified votes. - Clerk-treasurer to schedule a work session on the general fund and will seek council approval for sewer bank accounts. - Discussion on Kenny Shell's stormwater fee waiver request – no immediate action, under consideration. - Council received drone survey results showing 53 deer at Origin Park and was informed the deer reduction plan is canceled. - Council acknowledged acceptance of the community crossing grant and upcoming road work.

On March 4, 2026, the Clarksville Plan Commission met at 7:00 p.m. at the Town Municipal Building to approve minutes, review two preliminary subdivision plats, and set next steps. All seven commissioners were present. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the January 7, 2026 regular session were approved as corrected. Corrections included changing the name from Anna to Donna and adjusting the year from 2025 to 2026. The motion passed unanimously by voice vote. Discussion Items - SD-26-0002 – Preliminary Plat, Rachel Court (215 Potters Lane): Clayton Baylor of Cash Wagner and Associates presented the preliminary plat for a subdivision on property recently annexed from Clark County (R2 zoning). Staff reported that all checklist criteria were met except item 14 (proposals for connection to water and sanitary sewer systems), which is still being finalized with Clarksville Wastewater. Mr. Baylor noted his topographic survey identified utility locations and could provide details for the final plat. No public comment was offered. The commission voted 6-1 to approve the preliminary plat. The final plat will be considered on April 1, 2026. - SD-26-0004 – Preliminary Plat, Village of Waterford (615 Kingsbury Court): Steve Pryde, a resident of the development, explained that the existing condominium development needed to be recorded as a subdivision plat, as required by the county recorder’s office. The development is approximately 20 years old and satisfies all checklist criteria. No public comment was heard. The commission unanimously approved the preliminary plat (7-0). The final plat will be considered on April 1, 2026. Key Outcomes - Minutes from January 7, 2026 regular session approved as corrected. - Preliminary plat for Rachel Court approved (6-1), contingent on finalizing utility connection details. - Preliminary plat for Village of Waterford approved (7-0). - Both projects are scheduled for final plat approval at the April 1, 2026 Plan Commission meeting. - Meeting adjourned at approximately 7:28 p.m.

The Clarksville Town Council held a regular meeting followed by a work session on March 3, 2026. The regular meeting included appointments, public comments, consent agenda, unfinished business, new business items, reports, and council comments. The work session featured an update on the GovWell permitting software and a discussion of a tax abatement request for Premier Homes Classic Trust. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the February 17 regular meeting, work session, and executive session, claims of the town (current and pre-written, wastewater, bonds, grants, payroll), and acceptance of minutes from boards, commissions, and committees. Motion by Councilwoman Schiller, second by Councilwoman Henderson, passed unanimously 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Sean Bostock (Country Club Road Court, Indiana) called for the start of the process to remove Town Manager Kevin Beatty, citing failures in communication, alleged blocking of open records, and lack of transparency regarding a deer hunt and other matters. He stated that he and others had been embargoed from sharing information about the hunt and that a drone survey of the deer population was arranged free of charge. - Russ Horneman (Randolph Avenue, Clarksville) discussed deer population management, suggesting canopy thinning, edge creation, planting, and agricultural crops. He also addressed erosion at the boat ramp, proposing a hard boundary or a seawall. He referenced the Muscatatuck Wildlife Refuge estimate of 15–25 deer per square mile and noted that Origin Park’s 640 acres would support only about 10 deer. - David Leisure (1012 West Francis Avenue) expressed skepticism about deer crop damage concerns, noting that the area floods every year or every other year, which would wash out crops. Appointments - Fire Chief Wilson recommended Tom Upton for the position of deputy chief; the council welcomed him without a formal vote. - Amy Conrad Hill was appointed to the Arts Commission, filling the vacancy left by Tammy Wilson. Unfinished Business - Ordinance 2026-G07 (amending parking and vehicle regulations in the general and zoning codes) was approved on second reading by a vote of 6-1. The ordinance had been initially approved on February 17 with a 6-1 vote; the second reading was required. New Business - 7.1: PACO Manufacturing Tax Abatement Compliance (CF1) – Approved unanimously 7-0 for real estate and personal property tax year 2026, pay 2027. - 7.2: Temporary Easements for Center Point Energy – Two temporary easements along Discovery Trail and Beechwood Park for a gas main installation, valued at $10,672. Approved unanimously 7-0. - 7.3: Permanent Easement for Duke Energy – Discussion revealed council frustration with Origin Park’s lack of communication regarding the deer hunt and other matters. Councilman Munich expressed disappointment that Origin Park had not been a good neighbor. No motion was made, so the item died for lack of a motion. - 7.4: Resolution 2026-R03 Adopting Clark County Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan – Approved unanimously 7-0. Councilwoman Voiner asked about the town’s CRS score; Public Works Director Brad Cummings (watching remotely) reported the current score is 1180, which ranks as 8 out of 10 and helps reduce flood insurance premiums for residents on the river side of the levee. - 7.5: Ordinance 2026-S01 Amending FY2026 Salary Ordinance for Firefighter Rank Allocation – The ordinance realigns ranks (Fire Marshal from 1 to 0, Captains from 9 to 1, Lieutenants from 2 to 3, Sergeants from 9 to 6, First Class Firefighters from 27 to 30). Fire Chief Wilson noted the changes are cost-saving and that the assistant fire marshal role is still being filled. Approved on first reading 7-0, then on second reading 7-0. Reports - Clerk Treasurer’s Report: The telecom audit has identified approximately $30,000 in annual savings by shutting down old lines. A new official public records request form has been implemented, available online and in person, to ensure fair treatment of all requesters. The annual financial report for the end of February was submitted to the State Board of Accounts and will be published on Gateway in about 30 days. - Fire Chief Wilson: Asked the council and public to keep deployed service members in mind, noting that at least one department member is currently deployed. Council Comments - Councilwoman Voiner: Congratulated Tom Upton, thanked all town staff, and criticized Origin Park for being a poor neighbor, especially learning about the deer hunt from New Albany’s mayor. She expressed curiosity about how deer will be mitigated. - Councilwoman Schiller: Congratulated Upton, thanked service members, and addressed the lack of communication about the deer hunt. She stated that while many constituents want action against the town manager, a knee-jerk reaction would be unwise, and she advocated for a leadership discussion to ensure due diligence. - Councilman Munich: Noted that the town had no representation on Origin Park’s board (13–15 people) and that Town Manager Beatty, as liaison, did not inform the council. He hoped for changes to the board before Origin Park requests anything further. - Councilwoman Henderson: Congratulated Upton, asked about the status of a pet store ordinance (Councilwoman Schiller replied that a rough draft exists but is awaiting more information from Mr. Sharp and input from Samantha Chapman). She also sent prayers for military members and jokingly requested new roads for several subdivisions. Work Session – GovWell Permitting Software Update - Kaylee Mulloy, Associate Planner, presented an update on the GovWell system, which replaced SmartGov. Key statistics: $776,000 collected through the system, 1,500 records created, 505 active community members, 6,000 sessions since August, 4 out of 5 satisfaction rating with a 38% response rate, and a median permit issuance time of approximately one work day. The help bar answers 41% of questions after hours. Future plans include a mobile app, additional permit modules, and improved report generation. The council praised the system. Work Session – Tax Abatement Request for Premier Homes Classic Trust - Tammy Gibson, Economic Development Director, and Dawn Brown, CFO of Premier Homes (Classic Trust), presented a request for a 10-year property tax abatement on a new warehouse building at 2709 Blackiston Mill Road. The abatement would start at 100% and decrease to 5% over 10 years, applying only to the new improvement. The property is not currently in an Economic Revitalization Area (ERA), so the council must first establish an ERA through a two-meeting process (preliminary resolution, public hearing, confirming resolution). The company plans to hire additional salespeople, a warehouse manager, and entry-level positions. Council asked questions about the ERA definition, the process, and the company’s reach (Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky). The item will return for formal action after the ERA process. Key Outcomes - All votes on the consent agenda, unfinished business, and new business items passed with overwhelming majorities (7-0 or 6-1). - The Duke Energy permanent easement died due to lack of a motion. - The council directed staff to proceed with establishing an ERA for the Premier Homes tax abatement, with a formal request expected at a future meeting. - Council members expressed intent to discuss the town manager’s performance and the lack of communication from Origin Park in a future leadership session.

The Clarksville Board of Zoning Appeals held its first meeting of 2026 on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at the Clarksville Administration Building. The board conducted its annual reorganization, approved the December 17, 2025 regular session minutes, and heard two sign-related variance requests for properties in the Waterford North shopping center on Veterans Parkway. The agenda listed Kurtis McMurray for Freddy’s and Joey Bates for Bob’s; the transcript records Eddie Williams, Freddy’s franchisee, and Jordan Underwood of B Sign Group as the applicant representatives who spoke. Reorganization and Approval of Minutes - The meeting was called to order at 7:01 p.m., and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. - Lois Engelbretson was elected 2026 BZA president; the vote carried with Engelbretson abstaining. - Kenny Brown was elected 2026 vice president, and Neil was elected 2026 secretary, each by unanimous vote. - The board approved the December 17, 2025 regular session minutes by unanimous vote after noting the minutes had not been acted on earlier in the meeting. Discussion Items V-25-0018 – Freddy’s Sign Variance, 1055 Veterans Parkway - Staff noted this request and the Bob’s request are on the same parcel and share a parking lot. The proposed new Freddy’s restaurant would replace the former Dairy Queen location. The property is zoned Veterans Parkway Corridor Zone (VPCZ) and is part of the Waterford North shopping center, about 20 acres split into three parcels; the building parcel is 9 acres. - The request concerned LED/rope lighting to outline the roof edge. The sign ordinance prohibits rope lighting as a sign element, but the staff report concluded the proposed rigid LED strip product was not the type of haphazard lighting the 2019 sign ordinance intended to prohibit. No conditions were recommended. - Eddie Williams said the lighting is a Freddy’s corporate design standard unless a municipality rejects it; he said denial would change the look but probably would not create a practical difficulty. Jordan Underwood explained the product is rigid LED strip lighting mounted with clips, not flexible rope lighting. - Board members agreed the product should not be treated as rope lighting under the ordinance. The board voted unanimously to dismiss the variance application, finding no variance was necessary. V-26-0001 – Bob’s Wall Sign Variance, 1025 Veterans Parkway - Staff said the proposed Bob’s Furniture wall sign would have a maximum letter height of 6 feet. The ordinance allows 2-foot-tall letters and 3-foot-tall logos, or 4-foot letters and 5-foot logos with a planning director’s waiver. The request is 4 feet above the base allowance and 2 feet above the waiver allowance. - Staff found no public health/safety issue and no substantial adverse property-value effect. It noted the strict letter-height limit might not create a practical difficulty, but the building’s larger scale could support an appropriately scaled sign. No conditions were recommended. - Underwood said the larger letters reflect brand standards and aesthetics; two-foot letters would look too small on the 150-inch-tall by 524-inch-wide facade, and the building is about 344 feet from the road. Board members agreed the six-foot letters were appropriate at that distance and scale. - The board voted unanimously to approve the variance, citing the practical difficulty of using much smaller letters on a large building set far back from the road. Key Outcomes - The board elected 2026 officers and approved the December 17, 2025 minutes. - Freddy’s variance application V-25-0018 was dismissed unanimously as unnecessary. - Bob’s wall sign variance V-26-0001 was approved unanimously. - The next regular BZA meeting is scheduled for March 25, 2026, with at least two items already on the agenda.

The town council held a regular meeting followed by a work session. The meeting began with recognitions and awards for fire and police personnel, then proceeded to unanimous approval of the consent agenda and several ordinances. A contentious debate occurred over the purchase of body armor for the police department, which ultimately passed 6-1. The work session focused on revising the animal welfare ordinance in light of issues at a local pet store. Recognitions and Awards - Firefighter of the Year 2025: Sergeant Matt Feight was honored for his professionalism and commitment. - Life-saving awards were presented to firefighters Jacob Wheeler and Steve Wooten for CPR/EMS actions on March 25, 2025, and to firefighters Blake Corbett and James Steadman for actions during a structure fire on January 30, 2025. - Police awards included Reserve Officer of the Year Bradley Dangler, Police Officer of the Year Austin Johnson (unable to attend, to be presented later), Detective of the Year Tyler Jackson, and a Lifesaver Award to Officer Daniel Carr, who applied a tourniquet at a crash scene on May 11, 2025. The accident victim, Greg McClure, presented the award. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda, including minutes of February 3, 2026 meeting, claims, wastewater items, bonds, grants, payroll, minutes from boards/commissions, and conflict of interest statements, was unanimously approved. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were signed up for the regular meeting. - During the work session, multiple residents spoke about puppy mill issues and the need for stronger animal welfare ordinances. Key speakers included Jeff Cowelly (Jeffersonville), Tara Bassett (Louisville), Lauren Casden (Louisville), and Jen (a local advocate). They described sick puppies purchased from Puppy Gram at Green Tree Mall, high veterinary costs, and difficulties with the three-day vet check requirement. They urged the council to adopt stricter local regulations, possibly with assistance from Humane World (formerly Humane Society). Discussion Items - Annexation (Item 7.1): Ordinance 2026 G06 annexed 1.781 acres at 201-207 Potters Lane for four single-family homes. Approved unanimously after first and second readings. - Parking Regulations (Items 7.2 & 7.3): Two ordinances amending general code and zoning code regarding parking of vehicles, RVs, and trailers were presented. Both passed 6-1 (Councilwoman Henderson opposed), with second reading scheduled for the next meeting. - Rezoning Cleanup (Item 7.4): Ordinance 2026 Z03 removed 1409 Ryan Lane from a previous rezoning due to notification issues, returning it to business zoning. Passed 7-0. - Budget Transfers (Item 7.5): Ordinance 2026 BUD 01 ratified $2,074,175.90 in intra-budget transfers for fiscal year 2025, primarily for a traffic signal ($979,766) and a wastewater pump station ($824,000). Passed unanimously. - Temporary Loans (Item 7.6): Authorized $240,000 in short-term loans from the rainy day fund and wastewater operating fund to cover cash flow needs. The clerk-treasurer noted that $220,000 in interest earned in 2025 nearly offset the loans. Passed unanimously. - Body Armor Purchase (Item 7.7): A proposal to purchase 70 vests from Angel Armor for $153,930 (split between public safety and drug funds) sparked debate. Councilwoman Henderson argued for tabling to explore a federal grant that could reimburse 50%, but others noted vests expire in April and the grant application opens later. The motion to approve passed 6-1, with Henderson voting no but stating she supports the purchase, not the lack of earlier work session discussion. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously. - Annexation Ordinance (2026 G06): Approved on first and second readings. - Parking Ordinance (2026 G07): Approved 6-1, second reading pending. - Zoning Code Amendment (2026 Z02): Approved 6-1, second reading pending. - Rezoning Cleanup (2026 Z03): Approved 7-0. - Budget Transfers (2026 BUD 01): Approved unanimously. - Temporary Loans Resolution: Approved unanimously. - Body Armor Purchase: Approved 6-1; vests to be ordered from Angel Armor. - Work Session on Animal Welfare: Council directed staff (Public Works Director Brad Cummings, Animal Control Officer Ronnie Sharp, and Attorney Chris Sturgeon) to revise the animal welfare ordinance based on discussion. Council expressed interest in incorporating input from Humane World and reviewing the Westfield, Indiana draft ordinance. Topics included requiring a local veterinarian, extending the three-day vet check period, limiting the number of animals for sale, and considering backyard breeder regulations and microchipping requirements.

The Clarksville Redevelopment Commission held its organizational meeting on February 11, 2026, at 6:30 PM. The meeting included the swearing-in of new commissioners, election of officers, project updates from ongoing capital projects, and approval of several business items including school TIF disbursements, a contract change order, and owner's representative services for the George mixed-use development. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The commission unanimously approved the regular meeting minutes and executive session minutes from the previous meeting (voice vote, all aye). - Claims Approval: The commission approved the payment of claims totaling approximately $1,100 in non-contractual obligations, plus a previously approved claims register covering over $3 million in bond lease payments. Election of Officers - Chairman: Commissioner Munich was nominated by Mr. McKinnon and seconded by Mr. Ryder. Elected by voice vote (majority aye). - Vice Chairman: John Ryder was nominated and elected by voice vote (all aye). - Secretary: Bob McCoon was nominated and elected by voice vote (one abstention). Project Updates - Main Street Flood Wall Reconstruction: The final 40 feet of road awaiting the flood control structure tied to Riverside Drive project. Expected completion mid-summer. - Old Potters Lane Intersection (Progress Way): Project substantially complete; waiting on warm weather to finish asphalt repairs. Change order number one (deduct) was approved later (see Key Outcomes). - Shields Access Road and Block 5 Detention Basin: Construction stalled due to winter weather and snow. Resumption expected as snow melts. - South Clarksville Street Grid – Phase 2: Contractor has completed all work possible pending construction of The George building. Infrastructure around the building will be finished post-George construction. - Riverside Drive Flap Gate Box: Design for the flap gate box completed and sent to Duke Energy, Army Corps of Engineers, and local flood control for approval. The box can be constructed before the 26-week lead time flap gate arrives. Goal is to have the box installed before Thunder Over Louisville, but weather may delay. Discussion Items - School Assistance Disbursement (Resolution 2022-R-10 extended): Staff presented the distribution of $400,000 in TIF funds to four eligible schools (Parkwood, Providence, St. Anthony, and Clarksville Community Schools) based on verified student attendance. Funds are unrestricted; past uses included dual credit classes and technology. The disbursement was approved (see Key Outcomes). - Owner’s Representative Services for The George Project: Andrea Kissel of Veritas Advisors presented a proposal for owner's representative services at a cost of approximately $20,000 per year over three years (construction plus warranty). The service would provide third-party oversight of construction quality, schedule, and budget, protecting the RDC’s investment. Commissioners debated the cost and value, noting that similar oversight on previous projects (Bolton TI) saved money and avoided issues. The service was ultimately approved (motion by Mr. Butts, second by Mr. Ryder; vote 5-0). Key Outcomes - School Assistance Disbursement: Approved by unanimous voice vote. Payments totaling $400,000 to be distributed to eligible schools based on attendance counts. - Change Order No. 1 – Progress Way/Old Potters Lane: Approved unanimously. This deduct change order reduces the contract by $99,003.88, returning savings to the town. - Owner’s Representative Services – The George Project: Approved unanimously (voice vote). The commission authorized staff to engage Veritas Advisors. - Next Meeting: The February 24, 2026, regular meeting was canceled; the next meeting is scheduled for March 24, 2026.

The Clarksville Town Council held its regular meeting on February 3, 2026, at 6:29 PM. The meeting included a public hearing on a proposed annexation, public comments on the retail pet store ordinance, approval of a consent agenda, and updates on town operations. Council members and department heads recognized the street department and public works for their snow response, and the clerk-treasurer reported on budget cuts and a new public records request process. Public Comments & Testimony - Jennifer Fuller Renfro (Jen Bug) (301 South Clark Boulevard, Clarksville): Urged the council to review and strengthen the retail pet store ordinance. She argued that waiting for a state inspection report is not a sufficient reason to delay, as state inspections are narrow and do not address the need for clear, enforceable local standards. She stated that the current ordinance is "dangerously thin" and lacks enforceable standards for animal control, which could attract irresponsible operators. She expressed full support for strengthening the ordinance. - Jennifer Logston (608 Millwood Place, Clarksville): Posed a series of questions that the current retail pet store ordinance cannot answer regarding animal control officer authority, including whether the ordinance allows for veterinary evaluations, isolation of ill animals, disclosure of medications, solid flooring, intervention for overcrowding, exercise requirements, staff presence, and record production. She submitted a handout with additional questions and called for the ordinance to be reviewed and strengthened. Public Hearing: Annexation of 215 Potters Lane - The council held a public hearing on the proposed annexation of a 1.781-acre tract at 215 Potters Lane, owned by Tony Henson, for the purpose of building four single-family homes. The property is contiguous by 235 feet (20.9% of the perimeter), exceeding the state minimum of 12.5%. Notice of the hearing was published on January 10, 2026; an ordinance approving the annexation will be considered on February 17, 2026. - Clayton Travis Baylor (5313 St. John's Road, Greenville, Indiana; Indiana licensed surveyor with Cash Wagner & Associates, representing Tony Henson): Spoke in favor of the annexation, confirming the details provided by Manager Beatty and stating that Henson is interested in developing the property for residential homes. No opposition was voiced. Consent Calendar - The council approved the consent agenda (items 5.1 and 5.2) by a 7-0 vote. The consent agenda included the minutes of the joint town council regular meeting, work session, and executive session, as well as claims for the town (current and pre-written bonds, grants, and payroll). Discussion Items - Retail Pet Store Ordinance: The council acknowledged that discussion of the retail pet store ordinance was postponed pending a state inspection report. Council members did not deliberate further on the matter during the meeting. - Item 7-1 – Ordinance on Cost of Public Fire Protection Service: This item was pulled from the agenda and will be revisited at a later session after further discussion. - Clerk-Treasurer's Report: The clerk-treasurer thanked the council and town staff for their team effort on budget cuts required by the Department of Local Government Finance. He reported that the town is formalizing its public records request process, with a goal of responding within 10 business days (or up to 30 days in busy months). He provided copies of fire territory expenses and revenues for the last two calendar years to the council and encouraged forwarding any public records requests to his office. He also noted that the town has received increasing requests for public records. - Department Head Comments: The police chief (AD) thanked the council for support, noted that no open records requests have been received directly, and supported the centralized repository for transparency. He also praised the street department for their snow response. He reported that the police department spent zero additional dollars on overtime during the snow event and that four-wheel-drive vehicles proved helpful. - Council Member Comments: Multiple council members (Schiller, Boiner, Stotz, Henderson, Munich, Ramsey) thanked the street department, public works, and other town employees for their snow removal efforts. Councilwoman Boiner inquired about the public records request form; the clerk-treasurer indicated a form exists and will be made available on the town website. Councilwoman Henderson expressed a wish for new roads in several subdivisions (Parkwood, Blackstone Mill Road, Progress Way, Green Tree North, Potters Lane). Manager Beatty noted that Progress Way is a redevelopment commission project currently in land acquisition, with bid letting scheduled for December 2026 and construction beginning in 2027. Councilman Ramsey mentioned that Director Brad Cummings has been researching new snow equipment used in the Northeast. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda Approved: 7-0 vote. - Annexation Public Hearing Closed: The council will consider the annexation ordinance on February 17, 2026. - Item 7-1 Pulled: The ordinance on fire protection service costs will be brought back at a later date. - Public Records Process: The clerk-treasurer will provide a copy of the public records request form to the council and work to make it available on the town website. - Snow Response Recognized: No formal action, but widespread appreciation for street department and public works expressed. - Meeting Adjourned: At 6:29 PM.