Public Meetings - Columbus, Indiana

The Columbus Board of Zoning Appeals met on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. in Council Chambers at City Hall. The board considered six petitions, elected 2026 officers, approved the meeting calendar, acknowledged conflict-of-interest forms, and approved findings of fact and minutes. The most contentious item was a conditional use request for a shared housing facility for individuals in recovery at 803 Pearl Street, which drew extensive public testimony and resulted in denial. Consent Calendar - Findings of Fact Approved: CDS-2025-029 (Richard & Mary Fogler), CDS-2025-030 (Kevin King), CDS-2025-032 (Larry Kleinhenz), CDS-2025-033 (Indiana Precast). - Minutes Approved: October 28, 2025, and November 18, 2025 meetings. - Board of Zoning Appeals Calendar: Approved. - Conflict-of-Interest Forms: Acknowledged as received for the 2026 requirement. Public Comments & Testimony - BZA-25-4 (803 Pearl Street – Shared Housing Facility): Numerous neighbors and representatives spoke in opposition. Attorney Jeff Rocker (432 Washington Street) argued the use was not contextually appropriate for the RE district, citing intense density (14–17 people on an 8,000 sq ft lot), parking overload, and impacts on property values. Lisa Connor (Jolie Rentals, 4310 N Riverside Drive) described past drug problems in the area and fear of regression. Susan Kell (813 Franklin Street) questioned the location near a preschool and school. Nathaniel Gaudi (724 8th Street) raised concerns about accountability and code compliance. Josh Ochikevich (owner of nearby properties) recounted finding needles and meth after cleaning up former rooming houses. Carrie Sinavaldi (524 10th Street) questioned the transient nature and lack of oversight. Robert Shannon (719 A Street) gave personal testimony, stating he witnessed yelling, police calls, and a possible overdose, and criticized the lack of on-site clinical supervision. Applicant Brandon Neilsen (executive director of Gemini Recovery Services) stated he would reduce occupancy to 14, emphasized that the facility provides housing only (no treatment), and offered transparency. - Other Items: Tom Hummingbird (1063 Hummingbird Lane) spoke in favor of the Rollins Property Development variances, the Mona Jalal fence variance, and the Carl Miller replat, supporting infill development and practical solutions. No public opposition was voiced for items B through F (besides BZA-25-4). Discussion Items - BZA-25-4 (Conditional Use – Shared Housing): Staff reported the three-unit building had been converted from a single-family home. The applicant proposed up to 17 individuals (later reduced to 14). The board debated whether to treat the facility as one shared housing unit or three separate dwelling units. Staff determined it should be considered a single facility because it operated under one management. After public hearing, board member Grant Hale moved to deny, finding that criteria three (practical difficulty) was not met. The motion failed (1–4 or 2–3 vote; only Grant Hale voted aye). No motion to approve was made; the request was therefore denied. - BZA-25-10 & BZA-26-2 (Rollins Property Development – Variances for Six-Unit Apartment): Staff presented a proposed two-story, six-unit apartment building at the southeast corner of 10th Street and Werner Avenue. Three variances were requested: (1) building front setback reduction from 55 ft to 30.5 ft from centerline of 10th Street; (2) parking encroachment of 7.25 ft into the 20-ft Type B landscape buffer; (3) parking area front setback reduction to 35.5 ft. The board approved all three variances unanimously. Variance 3 carried a condition that parking be no closer to 10th Street than the front wall of the building (excluding balconies). - BZA-25-13 (Burt’s Pest Control – Side and Rear Setback Variances): Staff described a proposed 28×80 ft building addition at 805 Depot Street. The applicant requested an 11.26-ft side setback (required 20 ft) and a 12.91-ft rear setback (required 20 ft) due to the odd-shaped, less-than-one-acre lot. The board approved both variances unanimously, finding practical difficulty under criteria three. - BZA-25-14 (Mona Jalal – Fence Height Variance): The applicant requested a 6-ft tall fence in the front yard (max 3.5 ft) at 2068 Abbey Lane. The proposed fence would extend 8 ft forward of the house. Initial motion to deny (by Grant Hale) failed. A subsequent motion to approve (by Grant Hale) passed. The board accepted the applicant’s arguments that an 8-ft offset would improve structural stability and privacy for the dog, and that the practical difficulty was not self-imposed due to the corner lot configuration. - BZA-26-7 (Carl Miller – Two Dwellings on One Lot): Staff described a proposal to replat three lots at 3114 & 3110 10th Street and 1144 N Marr Road, leaving two existing single-family homes on one lot to enable future commercial redevelopment of the corner. The variance allows two primary structures on one lot. The board approved unanimously, noting it is a temporary step toward comprehensive plan goals. - BZA-26-9 (Hot Diggity Dog – Expansion of Kennel): The applicant Lisa Korf (owner of Hot Diggity Dog, 6170 W 450 South) requested conditional use approval to expand an existing home-based dog boarding and training business. The expansion includes a 160 sq ft outbuilding for four additional kennels, a 10,000 sq ft fenced yard, and one employee. The previous 2021 approval allowed eight dogs; the new request allows up to 16 dogs. The board approved unanimously after noting two letters of support. - Election of 2026 Officers: The board elected Zach Ellison as President, Michael Kinder as Vice President, and Chuck Doup as Secretary. Key Outcomes - BZA-25-4 (803 Pearl Street): Denied. The board did not approve the conditional use for a shared housing facility. (Motion to deny failed, but no motion to approve was made.) - BZA-25-10 & BZA-26-2 (Rollins): All three variances approved. - BZA-25-13 (Burt’s Pest Control): Both variances approved. - BZA-25-14 (Mona Jalal fence): Variance approved. - BZA-26-7 (Carl Miller): Variance approved. - BZA-26-9 (Hot Diggity Dog): Conditional use approved. - Officers: Ellison (President), Kinder (Vice President), Doup (Secretary). - Consent Items: Calendar, findings of fact, and minutes all approved.

The Bartholomew County Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) held a regular meeting on February 23, 2026, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers, City Hall. The board elected its 2026 officers and considered three variance requests, all requiring public hearings. Decisions were made on each item, and findings of fact and prior meeting minutes were approved. Election of 2026 Officers - David Flohr was re-elected as Chair. - Mike Speaker was elected as Vice Chair. - Eric Scheidt was elected as Secretary. - All elections were unanimous. Public Comments & Testimony - For each of the three variance petitions, the board opened a public comment period. No members of the public spoke during any of the public comment periods. Discussion Items BZA-25-1: Exclusive Cabins – Variance from minimum dwelling size - Petitioner Josh Helby requested a variance to allow a 560-square-foot dwelling on a property at 14000 West Mount Healthy Road, located in the AG (Agricultural: General) district where the minimum dwelling size is 950 square feet. Helby stated the lot's steep topography and the presence of an old cistern limited buildable area, and that he had designed an upscale tiny home. Board members discussed whether granting the variance would set a precedent for tiny homes; staff noted each case is considered individually. Helby said he could potentially increase the size to 700 square feet with a different design but that the current application was for 560 square feet. After deliberation, the board voted 3-2 to approve the variance, finding all criteria met. BZA-25-5: Silgas Realty – Variance to waive parking lot paving requirement - Petitioner Jim Old of Silgas Realty requested a variance to allow an existing gravel parking and driveway area on the north portion of the property at 2725 North State Road 9 to remain unpaved. The area was expanded without prior zoning compliance and is in the I-2 (Industrial General) district. Staff noted that the southern paved portion is legal non‑conforming and that similar variances were previously granted to a neighboring concrete company. Board members discussed potential future heavy truck use, but the applicant stated the trucking company currently on site is dissolving and traffic will be minimal. The board voted 3-2 to approve the variance, citing precedent from neighboring properties and that criteria for variance were met. BZA-25-8: GFVT II, LLC – Variance to allow expansion of accessory structure in front yard - Petitioner Tan (representing GFVT II, LLC) requested a variance to add a 486-square-foot addition (garage with second‑story living) to an existing guest house located in the front yard (the area between the primary residence and the street) at 11490 West Maple Drive. The property is in the RS‑1 (Residential Single‑Family) district with a lake setting. Staff noted that other accessory structures in the immediate area are also located in front yards. The board unanimously approved the variance, finding all criteria satisfied. Key Outcomes - BZA-25-1 approved (3-2). - BZA-25-5 approved (3-2). - BZA-25-8 approved (unanimous). - Findings of Fact for BUV-2025-003, BCU-2025-006, and BCU-2025-007 were approved unanimously. - Minutes of the December 15, 2025 meeting were approved as submitted. During informal discussion after the formal agenda, staff mentioned ongoing updates to the zoning ordinance, particularly regarding middle‑housing (duplexes, triplexes, ADUs) and potentially reducing the minimum dwelling size. Board members briefly discussed the rationale behind the current 950‑square‑foot minimum and the importance of allowing tiny homes in appropriate contexts.

The Columbus Redevelopment Commission held its regular monthly meeting on February 23, 2026, at 9:00 AM. The meeting included the swearing-in of a commissioner, a discussion of annual TIF reporting requirements, and several action items. Key actions included approving $750,000 in TIF funding for a new Animal Care Services building, authorizing $46,700 for design and engineering work for the Airplex Commerce Center Phase 2, and recommending a riverfront liquor license. The meeting also received updates on downtown redevelopment projects. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the January 29, 2026 regular meeting (Commissioner Cindy Bowles abstained as she was not present). - Approved claims for the month totaling $2,064,703.26, including an additional $82.28 added for a Verizon bill. Public Comments & Testimony - An audience member expressed strong support for the new Animal Care Services building project, noting it had been neglected for years and would be a valuable community asset. The speaker urged the commission to pass the funding resolution. Discussion Items - Annual TIF Reporting Requirements: Andrew (Controller) presented an overview of the redevelopment commission's reporting obligations, including an April 1 report to the fiscal officer, an April 15 annual report to the state and local bodies, and a public presentation to the city council scheduled for March 3, 2026. The annual presentation to overlapping taxing units was also conducted at this meeting. Andrew reviewed the 2025 TIF report, highlighting total revenues of $18.6 million, expenditures of $27.48 million, and an ending cash balance of $24.358 million for the central allocation area. He explained the circuit breaker impact concept, noting that the TIF areas' assessed value siloed to the side reduces the tax rate and circuit breaker losses for overlapping units. For 2025, the estimated circuit breaker impact on the City of Columbus was $2.8 million (loss of levy collectibility if TIFs were removed), and for the school corporation about $2.097 million, offset by workforce development grants. The airport, midtown, and other allocation areas were also summarized. Andrew noted that the 2026 projected surplus line on some worksheets incorrectly said 2025, and he would correct that. Key Outcomes - Swearing-In of Commissioner: Cynthia Bowles was sworn in by Mayor Mary Ferdon for a new term on the redevelopment commission for 2026. - Resolution 01-2026 (Animal Care Services Building): Approved unanimously to grant $750,000 in TIF funding from the central allocation area ($500,000, split equally between 2026 and 2027) and the midtown allocation area ($250,000 in 2026) toward the construction of a new Columbus Animal Care Services building. The total project cost is estimated at $9.7 million, with other funding from the city general fund ($5 million), a major donor ($1 million), a READI grant ($1.3 million), EDIT funds ($250,000), and an additional $450,000 for sewer line relocation from the airport allocation area (to be requested later). - Resolution 02-2026 (Airplex Commerce Center Phase 2 Design): Approved unanimously to engage Milestone Design Group for design and engineering work for the Airplex Commerce Center Phase 2 initiatives, including the Osville sewer main relocation for the animal care services, at a not-to-exceed cost of $46,700. The project is the first step toward extending Supercroop Drive and related infrastructure. - Riverfront Liquor License Recommendation: The commission unanimously voted to send a favorable recommendation to Mayor Ferdon for a riverfront liquor license for Casey Collins (doing business as Floyd's on Fourth, LLC). The license would allow the historic building to host pop-up events and operate a public bar area on select days. - Project Updates: Heather Hope provided updates on several projects: the downtown entrance plaza (modified plan and funding sources to be presented next month, with demolition expected in August/September 2026), the Second Street thoroughfare project (potholing underway after weather delays), the riverfront project (ribbon cutting targeted for October 23, 2026), the State Street property (asbestos remediation complete, demolition starting March 2, 2026, with developer interest in affordable/mixed-use development), and Arcadia Drive (completion target April 2026, ribbon cutting scheduled for May 20, 2026, 1:00-2:30 PM).

The board convened on February 17, 2026, with members Melanie Henderson, John Pickett, Brenda Sullivan, and Eric Fry (chair) present. They approved previous minutes, several routine items, and discussed key capital projects including a new animal care center. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approval of February 10, 2026 meeting minutes: Approved unanimously. - Approval of six dockets of claims: Approved unanimously. - Acceptance of uniform conflict of interest disclosure statements from Melissa Lynn (Utility Service Board) and Michael Tinsley (Police Review Board): Accepted unanimously. Discussion Items - 2313 Maple Street Vacate, Condemn & Legal Action: Robin Chavez requested approval to vacate, condemn, and pursue legal action for the property at 2313 Maple Street, which is vacant and unfit for habitation. The board approved the recommendation unanimously. - IT Department Furniture Purchase: Jim Hartse presented a proposal to purchase furniture (seven desks, cubicles, meeting table and chairs) for the IT department's new location under a state QPA with Steelcase for $65,761.13. The board approved the purchase unanimously. - Nexus Park Bus Stop Concrete Work: Engineering presented a quote with Case Construction for concrete work at the Nexus Park bus stop, which will serve as the new transfer station when the bus loop system launches in March 2026. The deadline for concrete work is March 20. The board approved the contract unanimously. - 2026 Community Crossings Grant Contract: Engineering requested approval to sign a contract with Milestone for the 2026 Community Crossings grant, totaling $1,356,050 (under budget). The board approved unanimously. - Animal Care Center RFPQ Notice: Engineering presented the request for proposals and qualifications (RFPQ) for the new Wendy H. Elwood Animal Care Services Center. The center will be built through a build-operate-transfer process. The current facility (built 1987) is 4,900 square feet; the new facility will be 21,000 square feet. The shelter currently houses approximately 50 dogs and 24 cats, but in peak season can have 35–40 dogs and 75–80 cats in the building with 100 in foster. The RFPQ will be posted that week, with proposals due March 23, 2026. The board approved the RFPQ notice unanimously. - Special Use of Right-of-Way: Engineering requested approval of a special use right-of-way for emergency sewer work by Sullivan Excavating. The board approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - All eight agenda items were approved unanimously by the board. - The board accepted conflict of interest statements from two board members. Announcements - Jody reminded the public that February is Black History Month, with programming at Black History Columbus.com. She also announced a free recreation day at Nexus Park on Thursday, February 20, from 2:30–4:30 p.m. for all ages (children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult).

The Columbus City Council met on February 17, 2026, at 6:00 PM with six members present. The meeting focused on a detailed housing update from staff members Jake and Jeff, covering progress towards the city's 2035 housing goals, current programs, and a major upcoming revision to zoning regulations to support more diverse housing types. Public comments addressed funding, the need for real estate expertise on boards, and the pace of regulatory changes. Consent Calendar - The council unanimously approved the minutes from the February 3, 2026 meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Brad Davis (National Road) asked about the spending status of the $500,000 federal grant for the homelessness initiative and the plan after the funds are exhausted. Staff responded that approximately $250,000 had been spent in 2025, with the remainder expected to be used in 2026, and that continued funding would be sought. - Greg (South Drive, realtor) raised several points: (1) thanked Jeff for mentioning House Bill 1001, which the Indiana Association of Realtors supports and expects to pass; (2) questioned whether ADUs added to rental properties are properly assessed at the 2% rental tax rate, suggesting potential underpayment; (3) argued that housing is one of the top three concerns in Columbus and that the city should include real estate professionals on relevant boards and commissions to bring data and expertise to decision-making. - Cole Bennett (north side of Columbus) asked whether the city is on track to meet its goal of 3,600 new housing units by 2035 and expressed concern about the slow pace of zoning ordinance changes, noting that recent council agendas had little business. Council members and staff responded that the zoning rewrite is complex and on schedule for completion this year, and that development activity is steady. Discussion Items - Housing Update (Jake, City Staff): Jake presented a refresher on the 2024 housing study, which identified a need for 3,600 new housing units by 2035. Key goals include preserving existing housing, supporting a variety of housing types and price points, promoting infill and density, and treating housing as an economic development and quality-of-life tool. He reviewed 2025 outputs: the PAC program (Providing Affordable Construction and Transformation) approved 8 new homes (2 completed), the CHIP program (owner-occupied rehab) assisted 28 homes, and a partnership with the Columbus Housing Authority rehabbed 24 rental homes—including one instance where a new HVAC system reduced a resident's electric bill by two-thirds. Two affordable housing developments broke ground in 2025: Hawk Creek Meadows (64 units) and Flats on 14th (110 units). The 2026 pipeline includes 10 North (120 units, under construction) and Taylor Uptown (52 units, spring start). The homelessness initiative with United Way of Bartholomew County reported preventing homelessness for 192 individuals, permanently housing 136 individuals, with 96% retaining housing, 62% increasing income or obtaining a job, and 72% accessing health care. A permanent supportive housing project is being developed through the Indiana Permanent Supportive Housing Institute. A partnership with Purdue University was announced to apply for a Capital One Foundation grant promoting innovative homeownership; if selected, the city could receive $200,000 for concept refinement and potentially $4.6 million for implementation, focusing on factory-built homes to reduce costs by 25%. Finally, Jake noted that the redevelopment commission is preparing the former county garage site for residential development. - Zoning Regulation Update (Jeff, Planning Department): Jeff explained that the current zoning ordinance handles single-family and large apartment complexes well but does not adequately address middle housing types (e.g., 3-12 unit buildings, cottage courts). The planning department is conducting an in-house, comprehensive rewrite of the zoning code to create more flexible categories and processes for these smaller projects, including reducing parking requirements, adjusting lot sizes, and adding new zoning districts. The effort aims to reduce the need for Board of Zoning Appeals variances and public hearing time for such projects. Jeff confirmed that the ADU allowance has been well received, with all applications approved, primarily in the county. The zoning changes are expected to go through Plan Commission as a steering committee, public input, and formal adoption by the end of 2026. He also noted that House Bill 1001 in the state legislature, if passed, would align with many of the proposed changes. Council member Chris expressed support for clarity and flexibility in the regulations. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken on housing or zoning matters. The council received the housing update and zoning preview as informational. - The council directed staff to share the presentation and maps with all council members, including those absent. - A public interest form for boards and commissions is now available online on the clerk's page; citizens can submit to be considered for future openings. - The council acknowledged the ongoing work on zoning revisions and the housing pipeline, with the goal of completing regulatory changes by the end of 2026. - The next council meeting is scheduled for March 3, 2026, with anticipated business items.

The meeting focused on staff reports, financial updates, and approvals. The board unanimously approved minutes from the previous meeting, designated the Board of Works as agent for claims approval, delegated authority to modify job descriptions, and approved claims and payrolls. Discussions covered winter operations, program registrations, upcoming master plans, and lease negotiations. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: Motion carried to approve minutes from the January 8 meeting. - Resolution – Board of Works Designation: Approved designating the Board of Works as the park board agent for approval of claims, effective for future year-end or delayed meeting scenarios. - Resolution – Job Description Modifications: Approved delegating authority to modify job descriptions for positions below director and direct reports (associate directors) to streamline hiring. - Claims and Payrolls: Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - Staff Reports: - Seth Rice (Sports Program Manager): Reported on basketball buddies (19 participants), spring registration (over 1,000 registrants), and youth baseball registration (240 kids with weeks remaining). Hamilton hosted 18 birthday parties, multiple room rentals, 2 Sentinel games, and 24 youth hockey games in January. A new small ice policy replaced a $95 private rental option with $10 drop-in, increasing utilization. Golf revenue was up $1,500 for January 2025; Columbus East boys golf team will use Greenbelt for season; multiple outing groups in discussion. - Jacob (Other Staff): Announced the signed BCSC MOU for the 2026 season. The U Trip Nationals fastpitch tournament aims to reach 240 teams (currently 180). Field house was fully booked in January with baseball, fastpitch tournaments, and a new Say Sports gymnastics event (350 gymnasts, two more events booked). 14 new events scheduled for the field house. Field crew completed soccer inventory and snow removal. Positions: fitness and wellness manager (15 applicants) and recreation manager posted. Farmers market applications opened; sold-out season expected. Lifeguard registration started; first class Feb 21-22. Pool furniture (lounges/dictators) delivered next week. Five trailheads identified with QR code signs for map/trail etiquette, installation starting in May. - Casey (Parks Maintenance): Reported on snow removal challenges from 15 inches of snow and three weeks of extreme cold. Vehicle maintenance continued but outdoor work (pruning, shelter repairs) delayed. Crews self-performed snow removal except at Nexus Park (contracted). No major water/heating repairs occurred. Trails are difficult to clear in deep snow; cross-country skiers prefer untreated trails. Flooding concerns minimal; snowmelt expected to be gradual. - Don (Financial Update): Presented a new financial report format. General fund receives major tax revenue in June and December; January revenues are lower. January 2026 had three payrolls (vs. two), affecting expense comparisons. Overtime costs rose due to snow removal. Program registrations (fees) were strong. The non-reverting, field house, and commons funds are performing well; commons fund tenants full. Cash balances healthy across funds. Board member suggested removing general fund from revenue vs. expense graph and adding bond payoff status. Discussion on finalizing Nexus Park construction close-out (meeting with controller’s office in weeks). New bus stop at Nexus is transit-funded. - Director’s Report: - Provided updates on leases: One lease in final negotiations (tenant improvement items); another under review for 10,000 sq ft of park space plus additional space. - Downtown 2030 Plan: Subcommittee focused on Mill Race Park; high-priority items being integrated into master plan. - Three concurrent master plans: parks strategic, donor center/aquatics/shelter, and Mill Race Park. Each will have dedicated stakeholder groups; timeline 12–18 months (target end of 2027). - Applying for a Pacers State Play Grant to renovate Mill Race Park basketball court. - Acknowledged team’s effort during “snowpocalypse” – proactive closures, inter-departmental support. - Bartholomew County Public Library master planning: collaborating to avoid duplication. - Lincoln Turf Update: Artificial turf installation delayed due to permitting setbacks and weather. Tournament schedule cleared for April–May; first tournament expected late May. Nationals in July remain on track. Affected tournaments relocated to other local fields, so Columbus retains the events. Key Outcomes - All consent items approved unanimously. - Financial report format will be refined based on board feedback (remove general fund from graph, add quarterly focus on specific funds, bond debt status). - Three master plans to proceed concurrently; contract being finalized, board will receive scope and timeline. - Lease negotiations continue for activating Mill Race Park space. - Lincoln turf installation to begin Feb 23; delayed tournaments moved but not lost. - Next meeting not announced; board adjourned.

The Columbus Plan Commission convened on February 11, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. in Council Chambers, City Hall, and via WebEx, to consider consent items, annexation and rezoning requests, a planned unit development amendment, annual officer elections and appointments, and a discussion on zoning ordinance revisions related to housing. Five public hearing items were on the agenda, including a consent agenda item for a minor subdivision (SUB-25-6), a request from Arbor Homes to annex 139.36 acres and rezone 107.25 acres for the Timberland Springs subdivision, and an amendment to the Columbus AirPark PUD. After public testimony and deliberation, the Commission voted to forward favorable recommendations to City Council on the annexation, rezoning, and PUD amendment, and approved all appointments and elections. A detailed discussion on proposed zoning ordinance changes was also held. Consent Calendar - Minutes of December 10, 2025 meeting were approved. - SUB-25-6 (Brooks Bros. Addition Minor Subdivision) – A request by Richard & Mary Fogler to subdivide one lot into two at 111 South Gladstone Avenue, including a waiver of sidewalk installation requirement, was approved as part of the consent agenda. Public Comments & Testimony Timberland Springs (PC-26-2 / PC-25-2): - Darren Ness (resident of Bethel Village at 5321 Danois Street) expressed concerns on behalf of neighbors: potential contamination of private wells during construction, noise complaints from legally kept animals (chickens, etc.) in the county area, increased traffic congestion at the 150 West/Deaver Road intersection, school capacity, and objection to a proposed bike/pedestrian path connecting to Bethel Village. - Colin Roof (owner of property directly north at 4605 South 150 West) acknowledged the developer’s addition of a buffer but requested more detailed guarantees: a no-build buffer of 50–75 feet with bermed evergreen landscaping, a drainage analysis showing zero net runoff toward his property, well protection during construction (restriction of heavy tracked equipment within a radius), and preservation of access along the shared boundary. He noted his private well is less than 40 feet from the property line and that he maintains livestock and operates a home-based dog training business. - Sharon Kinsey (4550 South 150 West) reiterated traffic concerns, stating that bumper-to-bumper traffic from Toyota in the afternoon already makes left turns dangerous, and adding 500–600 cars would worsen the situation. She also raised concerns about private wells going dry. - Three written letters were acknowledged: Andrea Valentine (traffic concerns) and two others. Columbus AirPark PUD (PC-26-1): - Mark Goto (resident of 4399 Osprey Drive) asked for clarification on proposed changes to Open Space 1 and 3, particularly regarding potential future sports uses on the west side near the Peoples Trail. Airport Director Brian Payne responded that no changes are planned for those areas. Discussion Items - Election of Officers: The Commission elected Michael Kinder as President, Dennis Baute as Vice President, and Laura Garrett as Secretary for the coming year. - Appointments: - Plan Commission Hearing Examiner: Laura Garrett reappointed. - Liaison to Bartholomew County Plan Commission: Dennis Baute reappointed. - Plat Committee Members: Dennis Baute (primary), Jeff Bergman and Andrew Beckort (primaries), Melissa L. and Amber P. (alternates) reappointed. - Joint District Plan Commission Member: Keerthi Alapati reappointed for a three-year term. - Utility Review Committee Member: Zack Ellison reappointed (by President). - PC-26-2 / PC-25-2: Timberland Springs Annexation and Rezoning – Staff presented that 59.5% of the 139.36‑acre annexation area is contiguous with city limits (exceeding the 12.5% state requirement), all city departments confirmed service ability, and the future land use map designates the area for residential use. The rezoning of 107.25 acres from AP to RT (Residential Two‑Family) would allow single‑family homes (Arbor Homes and Arriva product lines) with a planned 284 lots, 45 acres of open space, and a density of 2.9 units per acre. Public works noted capacity concerns but stated this development is serviceable. The developer addressed neighbor concerns: private wells are not expected to be affected; animal rights in the county are protected; a traffic study will be conducted at the preliminary plat stage; drainage will be improved with detention ponds. The Commission also discussed the need for road improvements along 150 West and Deaver Road, noting a design contract for the 150/175 realignment. - PC-26-1: Columbus AirPark PUD Amendment – The airport requested amendments to add an animal shelter use category (permitted in the AirPlex Commerce area), expand allowed uses in Open Space 2 (to include park facilities, performance spaces, fountains, inclusive play areas), revise the schedule of uses to allow certain commercial uses more broadly, and omit certain buffer area bike paths. Airport Director Brian Payne reported strong growth: 98 aircraft based, three more hangars planned, 14 new businesses in 18 months, and a new control tower under construction. The PUD has not been modified since 2014, and the amendment will enable new development opportunities. Staff recommended favorable recommendation subject to six conditions. - Zoning Ordinance Revisions Discussion – Jeff Bergman and Jesse presented a comprehensive proposal to increase housing options by breaking the multifamily category into smaller scales (three‑family, 4–12 units, 13–60 units, 61+), reducing minimum living area from 1,000 to 800 sq ft (450 for multifamily), allowing accessory dwelling units more broadly, and creating new residential districts (R1–R4, RE1/RE2) with less prescriptive form‑based regulations for small‑scale multifamily. The intent is to permit duplexes, triplexes, and small apartments in more zones as permitted or conditional uses, while letting the market determine building form. The Commission expressed general support for this direction, noting the importance of getting an “80% solution” adopted soon and learning from implementation. Suggestions included clarifying that accessory dwelling units include attic/basement apartments, and better labeling of agenda items with use codes. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda Approved unanimously (including minutes and SUB-25-6). - PC-26-2 (Annexation): Motion to send favorable recommendation to City Council carried unanimously (9 ayes). - PC-25-2 (Rezoning): Motion to send favorable recommendation to City Council carried unanimously (9 ayes). - PC-26-1 (AirPark PUD Amendment): Motion to send favorable recommendation to City Council, subject to six conditions, carried unanimously (9 ayes). - Election of Officers: Michael Kinder (President), Dennis Baute (Vice President), Laura Garrett (Secretary) elected unanimously. - Appointments: Laura Garrett (Hearing Examiner), Dennis Baute (County Liaison), Plat Committee (Dennis Baute, Jeff Bergman, Andrew Beckort, with alternates Melissa L. and Amber P.), Keerthi Alapati (Joint District Plan Commission, three‑year term), and Zack Ellison (Utility Review Committee) all approved unanimously. - Zoning Ordinance Revisions: No formal vote; the Commission broadly endorsed the proposed direction and will continue discussion at future meetings. Staff will refine the ordinance text with input from the Commission.

The Board of Works met on February 10, 2026, with four of five members present, constituting a quorum. The meeting covered routine approvals, policy updates, emergency actions, contract awards, and community announcements. Consent Calendar - Approval of February 3, 2026 Meeting Minutes: Approved unanimously. - Approval of 2026 ADA Policy Update: Presented by director Matt (standing in for Beth Ann Knott). Key changes include updating terminology from "routes" to "loops" for March 23 service changes, updated equipment numbers, and a reported 5.5-6% increase in ridership, moving 242,000 passengers in 2025. The policy update was approved unanimously. - Ratification of Emergency Action at 1462 Chestnut Street: The board ratified emergency code enforcement action taken due to a fire at 1462 Chestnut. The property owner is cooperating and plans to demolish or rebuild after insurance inspection. No demolition order was issued at this time. Approved unanimously. - Special Use of Right-of-Way: Approved for ATT, City Utilities, and Peterman Brothers. Approved unanimously. - Claims: Three dockets of claims approved unanimously. - Conflict of Interest Disclosure Statements: Accepted for Anne Welmer, Jason Major, Doug Van Kloppenberg, Alfred Tucker, Lisa Prentice, Mark Piller, and Brad Davis. Accepted unanimously. Discussion Items - Award of 2026 Community Crossings Grant Contract: Engineering presented a bid award to Milestone Contractors for $1,356,050 for the 2026 Community Crossings grant project. The motion was approved unanimously. Discussion noted that low oil prices for asphalt may have contributed to competitive pricing. - Final Change Order for CRC 2505 - 225 West Area Improvements: A change order increase of $221,796.87 (20.3% over 20% limit) was approved. The increase was due to discovery of unsuitable, swamp-like material under the path during construction. The change order was approved unanimously. - Quote Opening for Bus Stop Completion at Nexus Park: Quotes were opened for concrete pad work to complete the bus shelter at Nexus Park. Bids: Dave O'Mara Contractor $74,866.50, Milestone Contractors $107,377, and Case Construction (apparent typo: $8,004,087). The quotes were taken under advisement. Key Outcomes - All consent items and contracts were approved as presented. - The emergency action from code enforcement was ratified to facilitate property owner permitting. - Quotes for the Nexus Park bus stop completion will be reviewed and awarded later. - New employee Mariah Dyson was introduced to the board. - Community announcements: Final winter market on Saturday, February 14 (Valentine's Day) at the former Sears Building; President's Day closures on Monday, February 16 (regular trash collection still occurring); Chinese New Year celebration hosted by Columbus Chinese Association on Saturday at Columbus North High School (year of the horse). - Meeting adjourned.

Note: The agenda lists the meeting time as 4:00 P.M., while the provided timestamp indicates 09:00:00+00:00 (which corresponds to 4:00 A.M. Eastern Standard Time). This discrepancy is noted. No minutes or transcript were available for this summary; therefore, the following is based solely on the agenda. The agenda included eight public hearing items requiring hearing officer action, covering various variance and conditional use requests. Public Hearings - CDS-2025-034: Jake Fitzsimmons requested a development standards variance to allow a driveway width of 32 feet at the right-of-way line, exceeding the maximum 24 feet by 8 feet, at 3840 Oriole Drive, Columbus. - BZA-25-3: Housing Partnerships, Inc. requested conditional use approval for a duplex in the RE (Residential: Established) zoning district at 834 Werner Avenue, Columbus. - BZA-25-12: First Empire Holdings requested a development standards variance to allow a 6-foot-tall fence in a front yard, exceeding the 3.5-foot maximum by 2.5 feet, at 3103 Westenedge Drive, Columbus. - BZA-26-1: Eddie Wright requested a variance to allow an accessory structure (detached garage) to be 5 feet from the property line, reducing the required 15-foot side setback by 10 feet, at 3471 South 600 East, Rockcreek Township. - BZA-26-3: Columbus City Utilities requested conditional use approval for expansion of a wastewater treatment facility in the AP (Agriculture: Preferred) zoning district at 3465 Jonesville Road, Columbus Township. - BZA-26-4: Columbus City Utilities requested conditional use approval for expansion of a wastewater treatment facility in a Wellfield Protection Overlay District at the same property. - BZA-26-5: Columbus City Utilities requested a variance to allow an accessory structure (thermal dryer) to be 40 feet in height, exceeding the 25-foot maximum by 15 feet, at the same property. - BZA-26-6: Columbus City Utilities requested a variance to allow a silo to be 90 feet in height, exceeding the 25-foot maximum by 65 feet, at the same property. - BZA-26-8: MLJ Oak Street Properties requested three variances: a parking lot setback of 6 feet (4 feet less than required), a building setback of 20 feet from the centerline of Dahn Street (15 feet less than required), and a waiver of sidewalk installation along Dahn Street, at 102 Oak Street, Columbus. Key Outcomes No decisions or votes were recorded in the available materials. The meeting was scheduled for February 10, 2026, but no minutes or transcript were provided to confirm outcomes.