Public Meetings - Columbus, Indiana

The City of Columbus, Indiana, board convened on 2026-04-07 at 15:00:00+00:00. The board approved prior meeting minutes, a minor subdivision right-of-way dedication, release of a condemnation, several contracts, permits, and agreements, opened construction bids, approved claims, and heard announcements. All listed motions carried by voice vote, with no opposing votes noted in the transcript. Consent Calendar - Approved the March 31, 2026 meeting minutes as presented. - Approved special use of right-of-way requests from Columbus City Utilities, Milestone, Dave O'Mara, and Average Joe's Tree Service. - Approved the six dockets/buckets of claims reviewed by staff. Development Items - Subdivision right-of-way dedication: The Shelby Perry Minor Subdivision creates one new lot outside city limits but within city jurisdiction, west of State Road 46 and Country Club Road. The board accepted over 1.5 acres of right-of-way dedication along County Road 50 North and County Road 600 West, after staff reported the request had been reviewed by the city's plan committee and found in order. County-maintained roads were noted. - 1122 2nd Street car wash: Staff reported no action was needed because the property owner now has a demolition permit valid from May 1 through the end of August. - 2313 Maple Street: Staff requested release of the condemnation, demolition, and legal-action hold on the property after completion of a quick remodel. The property is subject to county permitting/inspection and city staff re-inspection. The board approved releasing the hold. Engineering and Contract Actions - Approved an events request for the Viewpoint Books trail on 6th Street, from Washington Street to the alley between Washington and Jackson, scheduled for April 11, 2026. - Approved a right-of-way encroachment agreement with Rubicon Investments LLC for 1020 North Washington Street to install private stormwater management infrastructure in the public right-of-way. - Awarded a contract to Edward and Jones Concrete for 26-02 concrete street repairs at Ever Road Park West in the amount of $389,600. - Awarded a contract to Williams Creek Management Corporation for CRC 26-01 riverfront tree mitigation in the amount of $296,257.87. One board member commented they would have preferred using the money for maintenance of existing city trees. - Opened bids for the 2026 crack seal and mastic joint repair project: Howard Companies — $397,929; Case Construction — $704,000; All Star Paving — $825,930. The board took the bids under advisement rather than awarding immediately. Announcements - Mike Woolman was introduced as the city's new communications manager. Woolman, a journalist with experience at The Republic and a journalism degree from the Ernie Pyle School, said he looked forward to communicating city activities more effectively to the public. - Jody announced the spring farmers market on 4th Street on Saturday, April 11 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; it is the second of three spring markets, with the next on April 25, followed by the regular summer market in May. The prior market was well attended and included baked goods, greens, mushrooms, crafts, sauces, and cinnamon rolls. Key Outcomes - Approved the March 31, 2026 minutes and all routine items on the calendar. - Accepted the Shelby Perry Minor Subdivision right-of-way dedication. - Released the condemnation/demolition/legal-action status on 2313 Maple Street. - Approved the Viewpoint Books event, the Rubicon encroachment agreement, and both construction contracts. - Took the 2026 crack seal and mastic joint repair bids under advisement. - Approved claims and adjourned the meeting by voice vote.

The Columbus City Council held a regular meeting on April 7, 2026, with seven members present. The meeting began with an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by approval of the prior meeting's minutes. The council then conducted a swearing-in ceremony for four members of the Human Rights Commission. The agenda included second readings of a salary ordinance and an additional appropriation, an annexation and rezoning package, first readings for a rezoning for affordable housing and a golf cart/UTV ordinance, and a resolution to fund the new animal care facility. The council also received a comprehensive update from the Columbus Redevelopment Commission (CRC) on its active projects. Public comments were heard on several items. Swearing-In of Human Rights Commissioners - Mayor introduced and swore in three new commissioners (Ethan Crow, Blake Fields, Felicia Garr) and one reappointed commissioner (Janae Garner Kelly). Each briefly spoke about their background and commitment to the role. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The minutes from the prior meeting were approved unanimously by voice vote. Salary Ordinance (Item A) – Second Reading - Discussion: Councilor Jay Foy recused himself because his son applied for a related position. The proposal replaces a part-time Community Development Assistant Administrator with a full-time Community Development Specialist and transitions a shared Office Administrator role to the Redevelopment Department (budget-neutral). Public comment: Brad asked about salary alignment and reclassification timeline. Staff clarified that the reclassification request for the redevelopment specialist role would not take effect until 2027, pending approval. - Key Outcome: Ordinance passed on second reading 6-0 (Foy recused). Additional Appropriation (Item B) – Second Reading - Discussion: This ordinance appropriates $44,195 from the CRC general fund to cover the Office Administrator salary through 2026. Public comment: Brad questioned why the salary wasn't adjusted immediately given expanded duties. Staff explained that the reclassification process is underway and will align with the next budget cycle. - Key Outcome: Ordinance passed on second reading 6-0 (Councilor West abstained). Annexation Fiscal Plan (Item C), Annexation (Item D), Rezoning (Item E) – Second Readings - Discussion: Jeff Bergman presented the three items for Arbor Homes' Timberland Springs development – annexation of 140 acres and rezoning of 107 acres from agriculture to RT (residential two-family) at Deaver Road and 150 West. The property is 39.5% contiguous with city limits. The plan commission recommended unanimously. Council discussed road improvements, floodplain, and public works capacity. The fiscal plan noted that the property is currently agricultural; DPW estimated $120,000–$140,000 in additional costs for new homes. Public comments: none. - Key Outcomes: All three items passed unanimously on second reading (7-0). Rezoning for Volunteers of America (Item A) – First Reading - Discussion: Jeff Bergman presented a request to rezone 0.57 acres from PUD to RM (multifamily) at 14th and Hutchins for a 17-unit affordable housing development serving vulnerable populations, including veterans and those with housing instability. The project secured $2.5 million in non-competitive HUD/IHCDA funding. Construction is projected to start Q1 2027. Public comment: none. - Key Outcome: Ordinance passed on first reading 7-0. Golf Cart and UTV Ordinance (Item B) – First Reading - Discussion: Austin Witting and Deputy Chief Matt Martindale presented the ordinance to allow golf carts and UTVs on city streets with speed limits ≤30 mph, subject to safety equipment, driver's license, and insurance requirements. The council debated definitions, enforcement, and the distinction between golf carts and low-speed vehicles (LSVs). Public comments included: - Russ Jones: Explained the difference between LSVs (registered) and golf carts. - Keith Aiker (Ach Reality Carts): Supported the ordinance, noting similar ordinances in Madison and other towns. - Larry: Supported the ordinance but argued it is too restrictive; suggested more input from dealers and owners. He also raised concerns about underage drivers and enforcement on the People Trail. - Councilors expressed mixed views on stringency and enforcement. The ordinance passed first reading 7-0 with plans to refine definitions before second reading. - Key Outcome: Ordinance passed on first reading 7-0. Animal Care Facility Funding Resolution - Discussion: Heather Pope and Doug Sunghole presented a resolution authorizing up to $750,000 in TIFF funds (from central and midtown allocation areas) for construction of the new animal care facility, plus $450,000 for sewer relocation. Total project cost is $9.75 million, with funding from city general fund ($5M), grants ($1.3M), donations ($2M), and TIFF. The building will use a BOT procurement method. Council discussed the need for ongoing maintenance funding. Public comment: none. - Key Outcome: Resolution passed 7-0. CRC Update Report (Informational) - Presentation: Heather Pope gave a detailed update on CRC projects, including: - Arcadia Drive (ribbon cutting next month) - Riverfront project (20% complete, ribbon cutting Oct 23, 2026) - Second Street Thoroughfare (on budget, completion July 2026) - Downtown housing projects (Hall Creek Meadows, Taylor Uptown, 1020) leveraging $28M in TIFF for $115M private investment, adding 439 units - Downtown Entrance Plaza (RFPQ in April 2026) - Former county highway garage property (demolition underway) - Workforce development grants (Ambit, control tower operator program) - No council action required. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned by unanimous consent.

The Columbus Board of Works met on March 31, 2026, with Melanie Henderson absent. The board approved a landscape contract for Parking Lot 10, transferred ownership of retiring police canine Denver to his handler, authorized legal action for demolition of a condemned property at 500 South Cherry Street, and approved multiple contract awards and bidding notices. All votes were unanimous. Discussion Items - Landscape Contract for Parking Lot 10: Jake presented a professional service contract with Randy Royer to develop a conceptual landscaping design for Parking Lot 10, located adjacent to the Armory at Franklin and 6th Streets. The plan is to replace all existing plant material with native plants and trees, including a public meeting for feedback. The project is funded by the streetscape fund. The city is also partnering with First Presbyterian Church on a grant for tree replacement. The contract was approved. - Retirement and Transfer of Police Canine Denver: Police Chief announced the retirement of canine Denver and sought authorization to transfer ownership to his handler, John Boosak, via a bill of sale reviewed by the city attorney. The transfer was approved. The chief indicated there are three other canines in service and no immediate replacement for Denver. - Animal Care Shelter Construction Manager Agreement Amendment: Eric presented a simple amendment to transfer the construction management contract from Doug Suncle to his LLC, Doug's Project LLC. The board approved the amendment. - 500 South Cherry Street – Vacate, Condemn, Demolish, Legal Action: Robin from code enforcement reported that after obtaining a warrant for inspection, the property was found to be very unstable and unsafe. The owner refused access. An emergency condemnation sign was posted, and the tenant was given until March 30 to vacate. Water has not been on since before 2000. The board approved the recommendation to proceed with legal action to demolish the property. - Annual Salt and Aggregate Bids: Brian Burton presented notices to bidders for aggregates and road salt. The board approved both notices. Discussion noted that despite a salt shortage this year, the city received good deliveries. - Fuel Contract Extension: Brian recommended extending the fuel contract with Premier Ag Co-op for one year based on a mutual agreement clause. The board approved the extension. Fuel prices will continue to follow market rates with a discount. - 2909 13th Street – Vacate, Condemn, and Legal Action: Fred reported ongoing issues with rubbish, garbage, and vehicles. After an inspection, he found holes in the roof, electrical issues, and open leaks near the electrical panel. The house is vacant after tenant eviction. The board approved the order to vacate, condemn, and take legal action if necessary, with an added requirement to obtain a building permit before any work. - Conflict of Interest Disclosure: The board accepted a conflict of interest statement from Don Richards of the fire department. - Engineering Items: - Riverfront Tree Mitigation Project: Bid awarded to Williams Creek Management Corporation for $296,257.87 to plant mitigation trees for those removed during riverfront work. The trees will be placed at Water and Lafayette Streets. Approved. - Concrete Street Repairs – Evere Road Park West: Bid awarded to Edward and Jones Concrete for $389,600. Approved. - Special Use of Right-of-Way Requests: Approved for DPW, All-Star Paving, CCU, and Miller Pipeline. - Pothole Repairs: Brian announced that hot mix pothole repairs will begin today (March 31), replacing temporary cold mix repairs. Residents can report potholes to 376-2508. - Claims: Two dockets of claims were approved. Announcements - City Hall will be closed on Good Friday, April 3. Trash pickup will remain on schedule. - Thursday, April 2 is First Thursday – Hop and Shop Downtown from 4-8 p.m., with 18 vendors, discounts, and an Easter egg hunt in shops. - On Friday, April 3, the Parks Department will hold an Easter egg hunt at Nexus Park from 10 a.m. for ages 1-8, free of charge. - Spring sweep begins Monday, April 6; schedules are on the city website. Key Outcomes - All motions were approved unanimously by voice vote (ayes). No opposed votes were recorded. - Legal action initiated for 500 South Cherry Street and 2909 13th Street. - Contracts awarded for landscape design, tree mitigation, concrete repairs, and fuel. - Canine Denver transferred to handler. - Bidding notices authorized for salt and aggregates.

The Columbus Indiana Human Rights Commission held its regular monthly meeting on March 25, 2026. The meeting covered updates on committee formation, a successful mediation of a complaint, the treasurer’s report, outreach activities, and discussions on state legislation affecting immigration enforcement and homelessness. Commissioners also honored outgoing Commissioner Tyler and discussed potential responses to new state laws. Chairperson’s Report & Committee Formation - Chairperson Anadale reported progress on creating committees to reduce bureaucratic delays. She announced an Employment Committee, chaired by Commissioner Tim Green, which has met and defined its terms. The committee will develop a procedural evaluation process for the HRC director and address a complaint that was filed. - Chairperson noted that committees do not make decisions but help advance work. She will circulate an email for volunteers for additional committees, including one focused on reviewing rules and possibly the ordinance. Mediation Update - Chairperson reported a successful mediation (called a “conversation” by the parties) regarding a complaint, conducted by Commissioner Green. A predetermination settlement is being drafted. Once finalized, the matter will be closed. Outreach and Youth Engagement - Staff member Erica reported on two youth initiatives: - CSA New Tech’s Agents of Change project: Commissioner Sims, Erica, and BCSC’s Angie Kirkham presented to students. The final event will be held at the Learning Center Auditorium; invitations were sent to commissioners and contacts. - Council for Youth Development’s Youth Empowerment Summit (March 27, 2026): Expected 125 students. Erica and staff will volunteer. A new Teen Council (focusing on mental health, bullying, tobacco cessation) meets twice monthly at City Hall. - Commissioner Green attended the NAACP Freedom Fund event on March 22, 2026, which drew 75–100 people. Proceeds from a silent auction went to the NAACP. - Erica shared that Inclusive Options, a therapeutic service, has hired a bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist and is translating materials. - Chairperson noted meetings with Hoosier Action (Jake Brooks) and encouraged commissioners to suggest partnership opportunities. Treasurer’s Report - Treasurer Gardner Kelly presented the March 2026 report: - Starting balance: $28,361.36 - Expenses: $84.36 for candy for outreach/education - Ending balance: $28,077.00 - No revenue this month. - An error of $1,850 was discovered: a line item missed from December 2025/January 2026. The error was corrected, and the numbers have been verified by the finance department. The treasurer’s report was approved by roll call vote (all present in favor). Discussion on Senate Bill 76, Homelessness Legislation, and Ordinance Amendments - Commissioner Deanne raised concerns about Senate Bill 76 (deputizing local law enforcement for immigration enforcement) and related homelessness legislation (Senate Bill 285). She noted that parts of SB 76 are already in effect, with full effect July 1, 2026. Community organizations are seeking answers from the administration. - Director Marez explained that local government cannot pass ordinances conflicting with state law but can regulate how enforcement occurs (e.g., general orders for police). She suggested including “language” as a protected class in the city’s human rights ordinance. This would provide explicit protections beyond the current coverage under national origin/ancestry. - Commissioner Green (Frank) cautioned that opening the ordinance for any amendment could invite unwanted changes and prolong the process (prior amendments took a year). He noted that a resolution (a statement of position) could be passed more quickly. - Director Marez outlined past practice for ordinance amendments: extensive public input, multiple city council readings. She warned that amendments carry risk—if the ordinance is opened, opponents could push for removal of existing protections. - Chairperson noted that a committees for reviewing rules and ordinance could be formed; volunteers are welcome. - Commissioner Graciela (liaison) reported on free leadership workshops in Spanish (May 7–8 and 14–15) and a workshop at the Propeller (May 17–18). Key Outcomes - The minutes of the February 25, 2026 meeting were approved as written. - The treasurer’s report for March 2026 was approved via roll call (all present in favor). - An Employment Committee has been formed (Chair Tim Green) to address director evaluation and complaint procedures. - A mediated complaint settlement is being finalized. - Commissioners discussed forming a committee to draft a resolution or consider ordinance amendments regarding language protections in response to SB 76 and SB 285. - Outgoing Commissioner Tyler (whose term ended) was thanked for over four years of service. He expressed confidence in the commission’s direction. - The next meeting is scheduled for April 29, 2026. - The meeting adjourned on a motion.

The Board of Public Works and Safety met on March 24, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. The meeting included approval of routine items, a presentation by a delegation from Aichi Prefecture, Japan, and several operational decisions. All votes were unanimous unless noted. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the March 17, 2026, meeting were approved as presented. - Banner Request: Approved a banner request for the R Hospice concert, to be held in September at the library steps. The banners are unchanged from last year, with approximately 26 banner spaces available on Washington Street. - Ford Police Interceptor Purchase: Authorized the purchase of a replacement police interceptor using insurance proceeds from two totaled crashes and existing funds. The crashes involved one normal driving incident and one emergency run, both caused by other drivers failing to yield. - DORA Designation: Approved a DORA (Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area) permit for Downtown Abbey LLC, doing business as St. Dennis Wine, Books, and Wonder, located at 426 Washington Street. This will be the 17th retail vendor in the downtown DORA. - Engineering Routine Approvals: - Approved the notice to bidders for the 2026 asphalt overlay program (project 26-05). - Approved public improvement acceptance for Taylor Grove Section 2 major subdivision. - Approved special use of right-of-way for three requests (Dave O'Mara, 31 Diesel Truck and Rucker, and Bowen Engineering). - Claims Dockets and Conflict of Interest: Approved three dockets of claims and accepted the uniform conflict of interest disclosure statement from Jacob Martin, a member of the parking commission. Presentation - Aichi Prefecture Student Delegation: The board welcomed five students and support staff from high schools in Aichi Prefecture, Japan, along with Teresa Colzak (president of the Japanese American Society of Indiana) and a coordinator. The delegation is part of a cultural and educational exchange memorandum between Aichi Prefecture and the State of Indiana, resumed after a COVID-19 hiatus. Teacher Reiko Okochi expressed gratitude, and student Nazomi Okamoto offered remarks. The students then presented on Aichi's history (three great heroes), industry (Toyota, agriculture), pop culture (World Cosplay Summit), local foods (hitsumabushi, miso), and attractions (Inuyama Castle, Osu shopping street, miso factory, Tokoname pottery street, Ghibli Park). The board thanked the students for their presentation. Discussion Items - Bids and Proposals: The board took under advisement bids for concrete street repairs (Ever Road Park West, six bids ranging from $389,600 to $776,000) and quotes for the riverfront tree mitigation project (CRC 26-01, two quotes: $2,967.87 from Williams Creek Management and $11,713 from Milestone Contractors). Proposals for the animal care services new service center (from Forced Construction and Runabom Construction) were publicly unsealed; no action was taken, and a committee will evaluate them. Key Outcomes - All consent calendar items were approved by voice vote with no opposition. - The presentation from the Aichi delegation was informational and received positively. - Bids and quotes for concrete repairs and tree mitigation were taken under advisement pending further review. - The animal care services proposals were opened and will be evaluated by a committee; a recommendation will be brought back at a later date. - The meeting adjourned after the conclusion of business.

The Columbus Board of Zoning Appeals met on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at 6:30 P.M. in Council Chambers at City Hall, 123 Washington Street, Columbus, Indiana. The meeting was streamed live online. All five board members were present, with Zach Ellison serving as presiding officer. The board considered three public hearings: a use variance for a contractor's expansion, a conditional use for a shared housing facility, and two development standards variances for a restaurant. Several findings of fact and the minutes of the previous meeting were also approved. The meeting adjourned at approximately 8:00 P.M. Public Comments & Testimony - Jerry Simo (2201 Chestnut Street) spoke on BZA-26-12 (Sparks Investments). He expressed opposition to a proposed parking space on the north side of the garage, stating it was too narrow (11 feet from garage to fence, alley only 6 feet wide) and would cause vehicles to drive over his yard. He noted past problems with the property but acknowledged recent improvements and no recent police issues. - Tom Dell (1063 Hummingbird Lane) spoke on BZA-26-12 and BZA-26-13. On the shared housing case, he raised safety concerns about alley access and emergency vehicle clearance, and questioned the approval process for gravel parking. He acknowledged the need for such housing but emphasized safety and neighborhood compatibility. On the Doc Chumley's case, he argued that practical difficulties (septic system, water line, utilities) justified the variances, and urged approval to maximize on-site parking and reduce unsafe off-street parking. - Mike Kirsch (neighbor and representative of petitioner Eric Neal) testified for BZA-26-13, confirming that he had seen the parking overflow described by the applicant and that his own vehicle was in one of the photos. Discussion Items - BZA-26-11: MAC Properties – Use Variance – A request to expand a contractor's office/workshop in the AP (Agriculture: Preferred) zoning district by combining a 1-acre adjacent parcel with the existing 0.47-acre lot. The applicant (Fred QSAC) explained that the family-owned business had operated for many years and relocation would be impractical and economically burdensome. The board discussed staff concerns, and the applicant agreed to conditions (no outdoor storage, pave drives, no new delivery drive access). The board voted 4-1 (Michael Kinder opposed) to approve the variance, with the three commitments included. - BZA-26-12: Sparks Investments – Conditional Use – A request to allow a shared housing facility for up to 7 unrelated individuals (including one on-site manager) at 2204 California Street (zoned RS-4). Staff presented the site, parking (3 on-site spaces proposed, plus street parking), and access to transit and services. The petitioner (Lisa Pine, Christopher Sparks) stated that safety measures (fire extinguishers, egress windows, cameras) are in place. Public testimony raised concerns about alley parking and emergency access. The board approved the conditional use with a condition that the gravel parking area along 22nd Street must receive proper approval or be removed/replaced with grass. - BZA-26-13: Doc Chumley's – Development Standards Variances – Two variances were requested for the restaurant at 8030 West Goeller Road (zoned CC): (1) to allow parking spaces to encroach 37 feet into the required 55-foot front setback, and (2) to allow up to 21 parking spaces to be 8 feet wide (instead of 9 feet). The applicant (Eric Neal, appearing via phone) explained that the existing parking (17 spaces) was often overwhelmed, causing guests to park on grass or across the street. He argued that expanding east was impractical due to a water line, perimeter drain, and septic field. Staff had suggested expanding east, but the applicant illustrated constraints with additional slides. Public comment supported approval due to practical difficulties. On variance (1) (setback), a motion to deny passed (3-2). On variance (2) (width), a motion to deny failed; then a motion to approve passed (voice vote with ayes prevailing). Thus, the parking width variance was approved, but the setback variance for the four new spaces near the utility pole was denied. Key Outcomes - BZA-26-11 (MAC Properties): Approved (4-1) with conditions (no outdoor storage, pave drives, no new delivery access). - BZA-26-12 (Sparks Investments): Approved with condition to obtain proper approval for gravel parking area or remove/replace with grass. - BZA-26-13 (Doc Chumley's): - Variance 1 (setback): Denied (3-2). - Variance 2 (parking width): Approved (voice vote, ayes prevailed). - Findings of Fact: All six cases (BZA-25-4, BZA-25-10 & BZA-26-2, BZA-25-13, BZA-25-14, BZA-26-7, BZA-26-9) were approved by unanimous voice votes. - Approval of Minutes: The minutes of the February 24, 2026 meeting were approved. - Hearing Officer Approvals: Noted for BZA-26-14 (Kiersten Voils, conditional use for an accessory dwelling unit). - Next Steps: The denied setback variance may be appealed through legal counsel; staff offered to discuss alternative parking options with the applicant.

The Bartholomew County Board of Zoning Appeals met at 7:00 p.m. on March 23, 2026, in Council Chambers at City Hall, Columbus, Indiana. The board approved a development standards variance, granted a continuance for a use variance, approved findings of fact for three prior cases, approved meeting minutes, and discussed possible enforcement of time-limited variances. All votes were by voice vote unless noted. BZA-26-10: Brian Jones – Development Standards Variance - The board approved a variance from Zoning Ordinance Section 6.1(A) to allow a 3,661-square-foot accessory structure without a primary structure at 18170 East 365 North, Clifty Township. - The proposed structure includes a garage, kitchen, full bathroom, and living/workspace. Applicant Brian Jones testified that it is intended to serve a future primary residence and be used for equipment storage and a work area; he anticipated starting the home in 2027 or 2028. - The motion cited that staff found criteria one and two met, and criterion three was met by approved septic plans, ongoing house plans, and the prior existence of a house on the property. - No public comments were offered. The motion carried by voice vote. BZA-26-15: PAF Excavating – Use Variance (Continuance) - The board granted a continuance to the April 27, 2026 meeting for PAF Excavating’s request for a use variance to allow an outdoor storage yard for a contractor’s office/workshop in the AG district at 7682 South 500 West, Ohio Township. - Applicant representative Jeremiah requested the continuance to address concerns in the staff report and a letter from a neighbor’s legal counsel that became available that afternoon. - The board clarified that no new public notice letters would be sent for the rescheduled meeting; notice is handled in-house. The motion carried by voice vote. Findings of Fact - The board approved findings of fact for BZA-25-1 (Exclusive Cabins), BZA-25-5 (Silgas Realty), and BZA-25-8 (GFVT II), each by voice vote. Approval of Minutes - The board approved the minutes of the February 23, 2026 meeting. Note: The agenda listed the minutes as being from the December 15, 2025 meeting; the transcript indicates the February 23, 2026 minutes were approved. Discussion: Time-Limited Variances - Board member Eric Scheidt questioned whether the board could impose a condition making a variance null if not used within three years. - Board Attorney Jim Schock said enforcement has historically been challenging, but a new tracking system may allow better follow-up. Members discussed examples such as a barn conversion that never occurred and noted that enforcement typically relies on complaints. - No formal action was taken.

The Columbus Redevelopment Commission held its regular monthly meeting on March 23, 2026. Commissioners present included Cindy Bowl, Trina Carter, Shann McCallum, Jim Lennox, and Scott Mallard. Also present were Heather Pope (Director of Redevelopment), Grace Kessler (City Council liaison), Mary Stroud (legal counsel), Mayor Mary Perdon, and City Council member Tom Dell. Jason Major was absent. The agenda included one discussion item (downtown entrance plaza design update) and five action items, all of which were approved unanimously. Discussion Item: Downtown Entrance Plaza - Chris Merritt (Merritt Chase) and Bonnie Bowright, project manager, presented an update on the downtown entrance plaza project, which began about two years ago and aligns with the downtown strategic plan to create a more welcoming entry and activate underused spaces. - Value engineering reduced the project estimate from about $4.7 million to about $3.7 million, with a current target budget of about $2.9 million. The anticipated construction cost is about $2.7 million, including a 7% city contingency. - Design changes included fewer and narrower pathways, reduced stonework, a smaller water feature (about 25 feet by 15 feet, intentionally reduced to avoid a state requirement for a nearby restroom), and material/detail cost reductions. Major elements such as the public safety plaza, community lawn, amphitheater seating, and picnic groves were retained. - Funding sources identified: certified tech park fund, remaining TIF dollars, and the railroad overpass fund. Requests for city council approval would come back to the commission later. - The POW/MIA memorial is expected to move to the courthouse lawn for better accessibility; design work is ongoing. - Traffic calming was discussed: the project includes tree planting and street design that will narrow lanes, supported by future NDOT resurfacing work on 2nd Street. - Construction is anticipated to start in October 2026, with completion early next year. - Rhonda Garden (via video) thanked the commission and expressed the Garden family's strong support for the plaza project, calling it a beautiful addition for residents and visitors. Action Items - Resolution 3-2026 – Engage JSH (JS Held) as project consultant for the catalytic projects identified in the Columbus Downtown 2030 plan (the "four-pack plus"), for a not-to-exceed amount of $36,400. Jason Larrison (JS Held) presented his firm's qualifications and approach for creating an RFQ, marketing, and selecting a master developer. Motion by James, second by Shannon; passed unanimously. - Resolution 4-2026 – Fund gas line installation for future developable lots along Pushard Drive in the AirPlex Commerce Center, from the airport allocation area, for a not-to-exceed amount of $41,764. Brian Payne (Airport Director) explained that the gas line is needed to develop Lot 1 and that lots 2, 3, 4, 6, and 12 are already leased or pending. Motion by Cindy, second by Scott; passed unanimously. - Resolution 5-2026 – Grant a workforce development grant of $25,000 to Ivy Tech for a Control Tower Operator program, from the airport allocation area. Brian Payne and Matthew Medley described the 400-hour, 10-week program, the nationwide shortage of about 3,500 tower operators, starting salaries of $75,000–$85,000, and that this would be the second such program in the U.S. The program is intended to be self-sustaining after startup. Passed unanimously. - Approval of Minutes – The February 23, 2026, regular meeting minutes were approved. - Claims Approval – The March claims docket was approved, increasing from the original $1,335,671 to $1,478,218 after adding seven additional claims (including utilities and work on County Road 300 West, International Drive, downtown entrance plaza design, Sears cooling tower maintenance, and asbestos abatement). Public Comments & Testimony - During the entrance plaza discussion, a public commenter asked about the UIA line and the POW/MIA memorial relocation timeline; staff responded that the memorial is being moved to the courthouse lawn and city council requests would come within a couple of months. - Ray Garden family representative Rhonda Garden expressed gratitude and support for the plaza project, noting her family's pride in the planned improvements. - During the JSH discussion, Mayor Mary Perdon and Council member Tom Dell spoke in favor of hiring JSH, emphasizing the city's lack of capacity and the importance of moving the Downtown 2030 plan forward. - Public questions during the control tower program discussion sought clarification on differences between contract tower and FAA tower operators, and on program hardware/software; answers were provided by Brian Payne and Matthew Medley. Key Outcomes - All five action items passed unanimously. - The commission discussed next steps for the entrance plaza funding, including obtaining city council approval for certified tech park funds and railroad overpass fund reappropriation. - Heather Pope provided a project update: 2nd Street work continues with completion expected in 10–12 weeks; riverfront tree mitigation bids open; amphitheater wall forming underway with concrete pours expected in April; ribbon cutting planned for October 23, 2026; demolition of the county highway garage property to begin this week; Cadia Drive project on target for April completion; and a ribbon cutting for the new BQW facility on May 20, 2026.

The meeting was called to order with members Melanie Henderson, Eric Prize, and Jeff Bergman present. Ben Sullivan was absent. The board approved the March 10, 2026 meeting minutes, reviewed subdivision improvement agreements, approved engineering and event applications, received an update on police accreditation, and accepted conflict of interest statements and claims. Discussion Items - Sutter Place Section 3 Subdivision Improvement Agreement: Jeff Bergman presented the agreement for the third phase of Sutter Place, which includes 60 of the 273 total lots. The previous two phases (sections 1 and 2) comprised 153 lots, each with one home per lot. The developer, Arbor Homes, is building two product types: typical lots (7,200–8,000 sq ft) and smaller lots (approximately 3,000 sq ft) clustered for more affordable entry-level homes. Of the 273 lots, about 90 are the smaller lot product. Section 3 includes only six of the smaller lots. The board approved the agreement unanimously. - Taylor Grove Section 2 Amendment and Final Plat: An amendment to the previously approved subdivision improvement agreement was presented to allow posting financial guarantees for remaining work and recording the final plat. Taylor Grove is a single section with 7 lots, located on the east side of Taylor Road near Sycamore Band and Rocky Ford Road, developed by Matt Donica. The board approved both the amended agreement and the final plat unanimously. - Engineering Items: Amy presented a quote for the Central Avenue signal preemption (dated March 9, 2026) with revisions; the board approved it. The special use of right-of-way summary with six items was also approved. Additionally, the Community Events Review Group had reviewed 15 event applications, which were all approved. Notable events included: Spring Market (starting March 28, put on by ODD), a senior project at Sears Law in April (Toys for Tots fundraiser with touch-a-truck, games, block party; working with Michaela Brown), Easter block party on 5th Street by First Christian Church, and Rise Thrive and Command (a women’s empowerment event by the Democratic Party with resources on education, employment, and child care). Also mentioned were the Indy Hood Rats car show at the airport (fundraiser for charities) and yoga at Melhory’s park on the same day. - Police Accreditation Update: Deputy Chief Martin Dale, accompanied by Lieutenant Harris, Lieutenant Barry, and Accreditation Manager Sue Lowry, reported that the Columbus Police Department received its fourth award in law enforcement accreditation from CLIA (likely CALEA). Over the past four years, Sue provided 2,500 documents proving compliance. The department has been voluntarily accredited since Chief Maddox, and CPD’s policies were already aligned with best practices, requiring minimal changes to meet state mandates. Only about 1,000 out of 18,000 police departments in the U.S. hold this accreditation. The board thanked the team. - Conflict of Interest Disclosure Statements: The board accepted uniform conflict of interest disclosure statements for Janae Garner Keller (Human Rights Commission), Timothy Green (Human Rights Commission), Kenna Huber (Human Rights Commission), and Clarence Sims (Human Rights Commission). - Claims: One docket of claims was reviewed and approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Approved March 10, 2026 meeting minutes (unanimous). - Approved Sutter Place Section 3 subdivision improvement agreement (unanimous). - Approved Taylor Grove Section 2 amended improvement agreement and final plat (both unanimous). - Approved Central Avenue preemption quote (unanimous). - Approved special use of right-of-way summary (unanimous). - Approved 15 event applications from the Community Events Review Group (unanimous). - Accepted four conflict of interest disclosure statements (unanimous). - Approved one docket of claims (unanimous). - Adjourned (unanimous).