Public Meetings - Evansville, Indiana

The Board of Zoning Appeals met on August 20, 2026, at 2:42 PM in the Civic Center Complex to consider a variety of variance requests, including zoning setbacks, parking reductions, signage, and fencing. The meeting included a preliminary discussion of a future battery energy storage system project and a contentious denial of a gravel parking variance. A total of 13 docket items were addressed, with one continued to the September 17, 2026 meeting. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes of the July 2026 meeting were approved unanimously (5-0). Public Comments & Testimony - VAR-2026-046 (Hammer Property Group): Two neighborhood association representatives, Shona Jarbo (president, Bellmead Baird Park Neighborhood Association) and Angie Bullock (chair, neighborhood task force), testified against the gravel parking variance. They cited numerous police runs, noise complaints, illegal parties, safety issues, and a history of code violations. They argued the gravel lot encourages nuisance activity and is unsuitable for elderly residents. The petitioner’s attorney, Nick Herman, argued the variance pertained only to the parking surface and not the tenant’s behavior, and that a permanent variance would help sell the property to a beneficial business. - VAR-2026-049 (Austin Graber): Annelisa Johnson, a neighbor across Dogwood Drive, expressed concerns about an 8-foot fence blocking visibility and affecting property values. She said she would be okay with a 6-foot fence set back further from the road. - VAR-2026-044 (Rathbone Apartments): Jim Keck, a neighbor at 1317 SE 2nd Street, asked whether the apartment building was at full capacity, fearing overflow parking on the street. The petitioner’s attorney later confirmed the building was at full capacity. Discussion Items - Preliminary Matter – BESS Project (RWE): Attorney Reed Schmidt requested 30 minutes for a future presentation on a battery energy storage system project (40.88 acres near East Baseline Road and I-69) scheduled for the September 17, 2026 meeting. The board discussed timing and procedure, deciding to defer the vote on extended time to the September meeting itself, consistent with past practice. The board expressed willingness to consider the request and noted the applicant would likely go last on the agenda. - VAR-2026-030 (Seth Doerner): Request to reduce front yard setback from 25’ to 20’ along Ingle Ave and increase fence height from 3’ to 6’ on a corner lot. The petitioner, represented by Ace Construction, explained a small addition and existing fence. Approved unanimously (5-0). - VAR-2026-044 (Rathbone Apartments): Request to reduce required parking from 87 spaces to 65 for an existing apartment building. The petitioner, Jim Morley, explained the gravel lot would be removed and turned to grass. After a neighbor’s question, the item was tabled briefly to confirm occupancy. The client confirmed full capacity. Approved unanimously (5-0). - VAR-2026-045 (Qdoba): Request to increase number of on-premises signs from 2 to 5 for a multi-tenant building. Scott Elpers explained the need due to three street frontages. Approved unanimously (5-0). - VAR-2026-046 (Hammer Property Group): Request to allow gravel parking permanently (fourth variance for this site). Extensive debate: the board noted $16,500 in unpaid fines, ongoing code violations, and a history of non-compliance. The petitioner argued the gravel lot had not caused documented problems, but the board found the applicant had not met the variance criteria, particularly regarding public health and welfare. Denied (0-5). - VAR-2026-047 (Carol Gibson): Request to reduce parking required from 6 spaces to 0 for a 5-unit apartment building. The applicant’s son explained the property has always used street parking. Approved (4-0, one member absent? Actually roll call showed 4 yes – Ms. Kasha, Mr. Rudolph, Mr. Zayner, Mr. Petke – Ms. Payne not listed? The transcript shows four yes votes, but earlier quorum was 5. Likely Ms. Payne was present but not recorded? The summary should note the vote tally as given.) Approved with 4 yes and 0 no. - VAR-2026-048 (Brenda Krbec): Request to reduce side yard setback from 5’ to 0’ and increase lot coverage from 30% to 32% for existing improvements. The petitioner had already removed a non-compliant shed and moved another. Approved unanimously (5-0). - VAR-2026-049 (Austin Graber): Two requests: (1) allow an 8-foot fence in required side yard, and (2) allow a 45-foot wide driveway (code max 24’). The driveway portion was approved (5-0). The 8-foot fence was denied (1-4) after discussion that it would negatively affect neighboring property values and is not justified by privacy concerns alone. - VAR-2026-050 (Evansville Toys & Games): Request to increase number of signs from 3 to 6 and total signage area from 500 sq ft to 1,015 sq ft for window signage. Approved with a condition that the additional signage applies only to the current tenant (5-0). - VAR-2026-051 (Kaylea Gibson): Request to allow an accessory structure (1,200 sq ft pole barn) larger than the main residence (1,011 sq ft). The existing garage would be demolished. Approved unanimously (5-0). - VAR-2026-052 (Randall Hart): Request to reduce front yard setback from 25’ to 12’ and allow a 6-foot fence (instead of 4’) along West Terrace Drive to replace an existing fence and relocate a shed. The applicant also raised an issue about an unpermitted driveway, which was not before the board. Approved unanimously (5-0). - VAR-2026-053 (Benjamin Boring): Request to allow accessory structures to be taller and larger than the main residence (new 1,440 sq ft, 21.5 ft tall pole barn) and reduce side setback to 0’. The applicant explained he needed height for a boat and jet skis. Approved unanimously (5-0). - VAR-2026-055 (SJIP, LLC): Request to relax the required 8-foot opaque fence for outdoor storage. The petitioner requested a continuance to the September 17, 2026 meeting because the property owner could not attend. The board granted the continuance (5-0). Key Outcomes - Approved with no opposition (5-0): VAR-2026-030, VAR-2026-044, VAR-2026-045, VAR-2026-048, VAR-2026-050, VAR-2026-051, VAR-2026-052, VAR-2026-053. Also VAR-2026-047 (4-0). - Partially approved: VAR-2026-049 – driveway width approved (5-0), 8-foot fence denied (1-4). - Denied: VAR-2026-046 (0-5). - Continued: VAR-2026-041 (already continued to September 17, 2026) and VAR-2026-055 (continued to September 17, 2026). - Next meeting: Scheduled for September 17, 2026, at 3:00 PM in room 301 of the Civic Center Complex. The board will also consider a request for extended presentation time for the RWE BESS project at that meeting.

The Board of Public Works met on August 13, 2026, at 1:30 PM to conduct old and new business, including approval of minutes, bid openings, event road closures, and surplus property disposal. All motions passed unanimously via voice vote. Consent Calendar - Approved the August 6, 2026, Board of Public Works minutes. - Approved the opening of bids for RFP-948-03-2026, Managed Service Provider (MSP) for IT Services and Support. Public Comments & Testimony - Scott Frankie (Director of ANCS – Advanced Network and Computer Services) addressed the board under public business, requesting to submit a late bid for the MSP RFP. He cited confusion over room assignments that delayed his arrival past the 1:30 PM deadline. The board, under advice of counsel, declined to accept the late submission, stating that the deadline was strict and could not be varied. Discussion Items - Rejection of Tire Proposal (APA-01-2026): Purchasing Director DaChenae Streeter explained that only one proposal was received, and due to fluctuating gas rates, the pricing was not beneficial for the city. The board approved the rejection, with plans to re-solicit when rates stabilize. - Approval of Appendix A – ROW Permit Applications (3127–3133): City Engineers recommended approval with conditions requiring compliant maintenance of traffic procedures per Indiana MUTCD, possible Board of Public Safety approval for lane restrictions/closures, and adherence to utility cut repair details. The board approved. - Approval of Barricades and Signage for Seven Events: All events had been previously approved by the Board of Public Safety on August 12, 2026. The list included: 1. Evansville Cultural Experience – Family Day in the Park: Closing Bellemeade Ave between Morton St and Evans, Sept 5, 2026, 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM. 2. Jacobsville Area Community Corporation – Graffiti Wall Grand Opening: Closing N Main St between Virginia and Delaware, and Iowa St between alleys, Aug 15, 2026, 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM. 3. WNIN Tri-State Public Media – WNIN Kids Fest: Closing Main St from Riverside Dr to 2nd St, and part of 1st St, Sept 18–20, 2026 (Friday 4:00 PM to Sunday 10:00 AM). 4. Riverwalk Communities – 21st Annual Cruise In Car Show and Sock Hop: Closing 6th St between Oak and Cherry, and Cherry St between SE 6th and loading dock, Sept 11, 2026, 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM. Fundraiser for residents' Christmas presents. 5. Evansville Events – Evansville Pickle Festival: Closing 9th St from Sycamore to Locust, and Main St from 9th to Sycamore, Sept 11–13, 2026. Approved pending receipt of a certificate of insurance. 6. YMCA of Southwestern Indiana – YMCA Kids Dash (in conjunction with WNIN Kids Fest): Closing Main St from SE 2nd St to MLK Jr Blvd, Sept 19, 2026, 7:00 AM – 9:30 PM. 7. YMCA of Southwestern Indiana – Half Marathon & 5 Miler: Closing multiple streets (detailed route read into record), Sept 19, 2026 (time not specified; barricades requested). - Surplus Property from Evansville Fire Department: The board approved the disposal of old mattresses, broken furniture, and donation of expired PPE to overseas organizations. - Opening of RFP-948 Responses: Nine responses were received from VC3, Inc., Exos, ATA Advisory, LLC, Pinnacle Computer Services, Inc., People Driven Technology, Inc., PCQuest, Inc., Global Solutions Group, Inc., Presidio Network Solutions Group, LLC, and 22nd Century Technologies, Inc. The responses were taken under advisement. Key Outcomes - All motions carried with unanimous voice votes (no dissent noted). - Late bid from ANCS was rejected as untimely; the record reflects that the bid was not delivered before the 1:30 PM deadline. - Approval of the Evansville Pickle Festival was made contingent on submission of a certificate of insurance. - The nine RFP responses were taken under advisement for further evaluation.

The Board of Park Commissioners held a special meeting on August 13, 2026 at 12:00 PM to consider three new business items: an electrical service agreement for the Igleheart Splashpad (note: transcript refers to 'Eagle Heart splash pad'), a change order for the Goebel Restroom Renovation, and a change order for the sump pump station repair at Hellfreck Golf Course. All items were approved unanimously. No public comments were received. Consent Calendar - No consent agenda items. Public Comments & Testimony - None. Discussion Items - Item a (CenterPoint Energy Agreement): Ms. Crook requested approval of an agreement with CenterPoint Energy for electrical service at the Igleheart Splashpad, describing it as the final step to open the splashpad to the public. The board approved the motion unanimously. - Item b (Goebel Restroom Renovation Change Order): Ms. Crook presented a change order with Midwest Construction for $3,310 to install two additional intake air vents and one intake air vent for two cassettes in each restroom, citing necessity. The board approved the change order unanimously. - Item c (Hellfreck Sump Pump Station Change Order): Ms. Crook explained that the pump station at Hellfreck Golf Course needed relocation to a more accessible maintenance location, allowing continued use of the existing irrigation system while waiting for a new pump. The change order with Deig Brothers (transcript: 'Dye Brothers') for $36,490 covered relocation, trenching, and excavation. The board approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Approved the meeting memorandum from August 5, 2026. - Approved and executed the CenterPoint Energy electrical service agreement for Igleheart Splashpad. - Approved and executed change order with Midwest Construction for Goebel Restroom Renovation ($3,310). - Approved and executed change order with Deig Brothers for Hellfreck Golf Course sump pump station repair ($36,490). - Approved acceptance of payroll and vendor claims. - Meeting adjourned at 12:05 PM.

The Vanderburgh County Council held the second day of its 2027 budget hearings on August 13, 2026, at 9:03 AM in room 301 of the Civic Center Complex. The meeting, presided over by Council President John Montrastelle, reviewed individual department budget requests for the upcoming fiscal year. Auditor Theresa Bassemier warned that the county faces a potential $5 million revenue loss and that total budget requests exceed last year's adopted budget by approximately $13.1 million, reaching $153,153,000. Discussion Items - Clerk, Election Office: Clerk Dottie Thomas presented a nearly flat budget with a 1% increase due to dues. The election budget decreases as it is a city election year. File transition for the clerk's office is about one-third complete. - Voter Registration: James Powell reported a 4% decrease in budget. - Recorder: Debbie Stucki, Chief Deputy Recorder, presented a flat budget. The office is self-sustaining and has spent about $273,000 from the Perpetuation Fund year-to-date to support the budget. A 180% increase in the Enhanced Access Fund is due to moving the Fidlar contract from the Perpetuation Fund to the Enhanced Access Fund. - Treasurer: Brian Gerth presented a flat budget, zeroing out extra help. He noted strong investment income ($6 million last year, projected $5 million this year) and cautioned about upcoming revenue losses from business personal property tax changes and a new veterans exemption, which could add an additional $1 million in circuit breaker loss. - Surveyor: Linda Freeman presented a flat budget with minor increases for step increases and insurance. - Sheriff: Noah Robinson presented significant increases due to the new jail expansion. Data management increases 10%, motor vehicle budget increases 20% ($50,000) due to aging fleet (about 100 vehicles with high mileage). Out-of-county inmate housing is projected to decrease 93% because of the new jail. The sheriff requested $820,000 increase for Southwestern Behavioral Health services, funded through the Opioid Restricted Fund, to expand mental health and substance abuse treatment. The jail will add 172 beds, including 10 mental health suites, a 32-bed substance abuse unit, and a veterans unit. Correctional officer recruitment is progressing, but deputy recruitment is a challenge. - Superior Court: Judge Robert Pigman presented a 1% decline due to reorganization (probation moved to Circuit Court). Juvenile Probation Supplemental shows a 100% increase due to state board fund number changes. - Community Corrections: James Akin presented a 1% decrease in the user fee account. The LIT budget includes a placeholder $300,000 for a lost grant. Litter Clean-up is funded through Solid Waste and is reporting success. - Drug and Alcohol Deferral Services: Megan Collins reported a 50% decrease in one line and flat otherwise. The DATS track (misdemeanor substance abuse) has increased 67% since 2024. The youth alcohol track has declined from thousands to about 90 per year. - Circuit Court: Judge Ryan Hatfield reported an 8.7% increase in the Circuit Court fund, largely due to the probation merger (5 additional staff). Supplemental Adult Probation shows a 7.5% decrease. The court expansion from 1.5 to 3 courtrooms is speeding case processing. - Public Defender: Steve Owens corrected errors in his request (travel and communications lines are flat). - Prosecutor: Diana Moers requested 7 additional deputy prosecutors at a cost of $850,000, citing a study showing Vanderburgh County is the most understaffed prosecutor's office in the state (needing 57 attorneys, currently 20). She argued this would reduce jail overflow (currently about 100 inmates costing $3.5 million annually) and save money. Council members expressed support for the data-driven request and discussed potential funding sources, including the Opioid Restricted Fund (though ordinance currently restricts it to the Sheriff). - Local Drug Free Community: Jeff Gregory presented a 9% decrease, funded by court fees, not general fund. - Council Budget: Teri Lukeman presented the council budget, including a 15% placeholder for health insurance and increased contractual computer costs pending vendor selection. - Auditor: Theresa Bassemier explained a 100% increase in the Real Estate Clerk line due to moving the position from the Plat Book Fund back to the General Fund. Ineligible Deductions fund is for recovering improper homestead exemptions. Jail bond and statewide 911 funds were also discussed. Key Outcomes - Total department requests for 2027 are $153,153,000, approximately $13.1 million over the 2026 adopted budget of $138,754,000. - The meeting recessed at 11:18 AM. Budget cut deliberations are scheduled for September 2, 2026, at 3:30 PM, following the regular council meeting at 3:00 PM.

The Evansville Board of Public Safety met on August 12, 2026, at 1:01 PM to consider a range of items including an amendment to a charity event road closure, police and fire department requests, handicap parking installations, and numerous special event permits. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance. Consent Calendar - Ratified a series of consensus votes (Item B) from prior online approvals between meetings. - Approved consent items under Section D: parking space closure at Old National Events Plaza (Aug 20), lane restriction for Dia de los Muertos event (Nov 7, pending COI), safety buffer for Porchfest at 59 Taylor Ave (Sep 5), Hadi Shrine Poker Run (Sep 20, pending COI), lane restriction for caulking/painting at Very Plastics building (Aug 13–20), dumpster extension at 918 W Michigan (until Oct 15), dumpster for house fire demolition at 51 Taylor Ave (Aug 12–Nov 12), truck permit for a 2011 Kenworth (5–10 trips/year), removal of handicap space at 1555 S Morton Ave, massage therapy application for The Wash Tub (1 table), precious metal dealers Bullets Inc dba Fares Pawn and Tri State Gold & Silver, and secondhand merchant Taylors Resale and Gift Shop. Public Comments & Testimony - Todd Early (Tiki on Main, 524 Main Street) requested an amendment to an already approved road closure for the Tailgate Revival charity event on September 26. He explained the stage was larger than anticipated and needed the intersection of 5th and Main (or 6th and Main) closed. He stated the event would raise $10,000 for local charities including Evansville Police Association, Chemo Buddies, Hoofbeat Therapeutic Horse Riding, and Evansville Animal Care Center. He cited community impact and noted he has lived in Evansville for 20 years. - A band representative (lead singer) added that his band started in Evansville 10 years ago, and he wanted to keep the event downtown. He assured the board of cleanup and safety measures. Discussion Items - Todd Early’s Amendment Request: The board discussed EPD’s concern that barricades would also need to be placed at Locust and Sycamore to prevent traffic from being trapped. The applicant agreed to those additional barricades. Board members expressed concerns about blocking extra downtown streets but were satisfied after assurances of cleanup, security, noise control, and resident notification. The stage dimensions (24x20 to 45x32 ft, dry weight 946 lbs) were noted; height was estimated at 18 ft, below traffic signals. The event will run noon to midnight with gates opening at 4 PM. - Police Department Donations: Captain John McQuay presented seven donations from the Evansville Police Foundation: outreach supplies for Mental Health Unit (1500 units), CPO Realtime Crime Cameras (10), Magnet Forensics for Digital Evidence (1), Fox Fury TED (1), bulletproof windshields (2), K-9 bite suit (1), and generator for command building (1). Approved unanimously. - Fire Department Requests: - Seek bids for fire boat and tow vehicle (CIP 44375911-445020). Approved. - Waive irregularities on IFB 011-02-2025 for Station 1 roof replacement and award to Midwest Roofing as lowest bidder, pending DLGF approval of finance ordinance. The irregularities related to a state law change on minority/women business outreach that made the requirement illegal. Approved unanimously after amendment. - Approve indemnity and release agreement with the Land Bank for fire department training on Land Bank property, with insurance coverage confirmed. Approved. - City Engineering – Handicap Parking: - Approved installations at 419 E Michigan and 1620 Stinson Ave (no obstacles found). - Tabled requests for 724 E Powell, 852 Bellemeade Ave, and 39 W Columbia Street because applicants have driveways or accessible rear parking. Board asked staff to contact applicants for more information. Jennifer Blankenship noted 852 Bellemeade applicant is a family member who rarely parks in front; property has a rear pad with a car displaying handicap plates. - Special Event Permits (Sergeant Nick Winsett): - Evansville Cultural Experience – Family Day in the Park, Sep 5, 12–8 PM, Bellemeade Ave closure. Approved. - Jacobsville Area Community Corporation – Graffiti Wall Grand Opening, Aug 15, 2–7 PM, Main/Iowa closure. Tabled at request of organizer to move location/date. - WNIN Kids Fest (Sep 18–20, Main/1st closure) and YMCA Kids Dash (Sep 19, same area) – combined approval. - Riverwalk Communities – 21st Annual Cruise In Car Show & Sock Hop, Sep 11, 3–10 PM. Approved. - Evansville Pickle Festival (Sep 11–13, 9th/Main closure) – approved pending COI. - YMCA Half Marathon & 5 Miler (Oct 3, 4 AM–1 PM, extensive route) – approved. - Central High School Invitational Band Competition (Sep 12, Old Post Rd closure) – approved. - Haynie’s Corner Arts District Association – Front Porch Fest (Sep 5, 2–11 PM) and After Party (Sep 6, 2–11 PM) – combined approval. Key Outcomes - Approved: Amendment to Tailgate Revival event road closure to include 5th and Main/6th and Main intersection with additional barricades at Locust and Sycamore, subject to EPD conditions. - Approved: All police donation items (unanimous). - Approved: Fire boat/tow vehicle bid request (unanimous). - Approved: Waiver of irregularities and award of Station 1 roof bid to Midwest Roofing, pending DLGF approval (unanimous). - Approved: Indemnity agreement with Land Bank for fire training (unanimous). - Approved: Two handicap parking installations; three tabled for further information. - Approved: All special event permits as noted, with two tabled (Graffiti Wall) and one pending COI (Pickle Festival). - Approved: Consent items, claims, and minutes from July 8, 2026 (correcting agenda error). - Next Meeting: Wednesday, August 26, 2026, in Civic Center Room 301.

The Vanderburgh County Council met on August 12, 2026, at 8:33 a.m. in Room 301 of the Civic Center Complex with President John Montrastelle presiding. All seven councilmembers were present for a full quorum. The agenda combined the regular County Council meeting with Day 1 of the 2027 county budget hearings, which followed after a short recess. The minutes packet indexes the regular council meeting; the transcript also contains the budget hearing, where 15 department heads presented 29 line-item budgets. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes: July 29, 2026 Personnel & Finance meeting; later, June 24, 2026 Personnel & Finance and July 1, 2026 County Council minutes were also approved. - Personnel requests approved 7-0 as items A through G and I through J; item H (Health Department part-time Medical Director) was withdrawn by Joe Gries. Requests included Circuit Court, Superior Court Protective Order Assistance, Clerk, Public Defender, Community Corrections Treatment Court, County Highway, Legal Aid, Health Department-Lactation, and TANF/Evansville Promise Neighborhood Community Health Worker positions. - Appropriations approved 7-0: Surveyor $3,930; Circuit Court $62,000 (food and petit jurors); Public Defender $335,000 (reduced from $445,000 requested, with investigative services set at $60,000, pauper expense $200,000, appeals $75,000, and transcripts at $0); County Highway $188,317; Riverboat/Commissioners $200,000; Recorder $58,000. - Transfers approved 7-0 as listed for Assessor, Commissioners, Circuit Court, Superior Court, Legal Aid, Cumulative Bridge, and Surveyor Corner Perpetuation. - Salary ordinance amendments approved 7-0 as listed in the four-page document. Public Comments & Testimony - Shawn Pepper, owner of the old Dogtown Tavern at 6109 Old Henderson Road, described hurdles reopening the property: a DNR delay, permit and site-plan costs, a 55-person occupancy limit, and a $50,000 budget that he said is already half spent. He asked for advice on alternatives such as an RV site, event center, or using an existing garage as a new Dogtown. Councilmembers advised him to start with the County Commissioners and to contact the Southwest Indiana Small Business Development Center, specifically Art McDonald. Discussion Items - Amended parcel number for SEZ Holdings, LLC/Polyram USA (Resolution CO.R-03-26-007): approved 7-0 after staff described it as an administrative correction of a parcel number discovered by the Auditor’s Office. Patrick Hickey was absent. - Poet Square TIF payment (Resolution 2026-VCRC-03): approved 7-0 subject to appropriation from the U.S. 41 Expanded Economic Development Area TIF funds. Mike Schopmeyer, Redevelopment Commission counsel, explained the emergency: a SWIRDA/READI 1.0 grant deadline was approaching and Poet Square completed a housing project in record time to preserve the funds; the resolution releases $250,000 after foundation completion. - Old Farm Reserve bond ordinance (CO.08-26-014): first reading approved 7-0 on a roll-call vote. Developers Chip Altstadt and Ryan Lewis presented the project on 110 acres off University Parkway near USI: about 70 acres residential, 10 acres for 240 apartment units, and 30 acres commercial; total project budget $130–$150 million; average homes estimated at $400,000–$500,000; homeowner lots expected after the end of the year. Councilmembers described it as the first development on University Parkway and said the TIF area needs growth; the second reading is scheduled for September 2, 2026. - Property tax levy limits letter: approved 7-0. The letter recommends that 2027 budgets stay under the 6.0% maximum levy growth quotient, prioritize operational and contractual obligations, explore cost-saving opportunities, and work toward conservative budgets. - Municipal Unit Strategic Taskforce (MUST): Brian Gerth, former County Auditor and current Treasurer, was appointed 7-0 as the Council’s representative. Gerth said the taskforce is non-binding and will work with the City of Evansville and Town of Darmstadt on Local Income Tax allocation under SEA 1-2025; he wants to keep the county rate at 1.25% and distribute funds fairly. He cited concerns about the $5.8 million Property Tax Replacement Credit going away, circuit-breaker pressure, 7% gross assessed-value growth but only about 1% net assessed-value growth, and the $2.5 million Homestead Supplemental Credit loss. 2027 Budget Hearings – Day 1 - Legal Aid: Kevin Gibson presented a flat budget with only salary-ordinance and rent increases; he said this was his final Legal Aid budget before retiring after 40 years. - CIO/Computer Services: Vernon Luce reported the county portion at $5.5 million (including $500,000 requested in CCD), with overall reductions of $927,000 versus $512,000 in increases. Savings included a cybersecurity grant covering CrowdStrike ($170,000/year), a state-funded training tool ($12,000), a new printer contract ($40,000), and lower cyber-insurance costs ($40,000–$50,000). An RFP for a major contract was still pending. - Health Department: Joe Gries presented the general fund health fund at $3,863,000, an increase of less than 1%. The department receives $5–$6 million in grants annually; about 40–45 of its 100 employees are grant-funded. Lead testing is being expanded, and a potential $7 million lead-remediation grant with the city is being explored. Local public health services (HFI) was down about 5%; pre-to-three Medicaid includes $200,000 for a new electronic medical record; non-reverting communicable disease and lead prevention funds were also reviewed. - Assessor: Bill Flutie presented a flat budget; staffing has been reduced by 10–11 positions over 16 years through attrition. Sales disclosure, reassessment, and personal property funds were adjusted to reduce levy pressure; website/GIS maintenance is about $18,000/year. - Area Plan: Ron London had one main increase, about $17,000 for a scanner/plotter and computer replacements. Two zoning enforcement officers cover east and west of I-41; enforcement is complaint-driven. - Coroner: Brian Underwood’s budget is down about $23,000; part-time deputy coroner pay was adjusted upward in the personal-services line. The new facility is expected to be ready by the end of the month; about 1,500 deaths have been handled so far; fee revenue was over $10,000. - County Commissioners: Postage was a major discussion, with a $150,000 request and year-to-date circuit court/clerk postage over $108,000. Laura said she tracks postage and legal fees by department; Council debated moving postage back into department budgets. A 16% building rent increase was questioned and tied partly to the new coroner’s building. Legal fees were described as variable, with $230,000 spent in six months. - Opioid unrestricted fund: Discussion focused on low balances (unrestricted roughly under $500,000; unappropriated about $48,000) and prior funding for Jacobs Village, Youth Services, and Aurora at $45,000; Council indicated these funds should be used carefully and could help replace general fund spending. - Drainage Board and Superintendent of County Buildings: Brief presentations; the coroner’s move to the new building is expected in Q4; the old coroner’s building may be sold. Dave Rector requested $35,653 for Coliseum maintenance; the rent increase will be revisited with him. - Cooperative Extension: Megan Solomon explained Purdue’s move to a population-based regional service model. Contractual services increased, with Councilmembers asking about a 12% adjustment and later referencing a 59% figure in a question; Solomon said Purdue pools funds and had not provided itemized detail. County-based offices and dedicated 4-H educators will remain. - Weights and Measures: Jacob Murphy presented a flat budget and offered to give up about $200 in rarely used postage. - Veterans Administration: Tanya Weber asked to keep postage because of Indiana’s new 100% disabled veteran property tax exemption. She cited $125 million in county economic impact, $62 million/year in pension and disability claims, and just under 10,000 veterans in the county. - Burdette Park: Zach Watham presented a roughly $50,000 increase for linen contracts, a streaming/communications overhaul, security, and supplies. The aquatic center exceeded 80,000 visitors for the first time; season pass revenue was $93,781; park-wide revenue was nearly $1.1 million. - County Highway: Jeff Byrd requested more than the prior flat budgets due to rising costs. Aging equipment includes a 20+ year-old paver, a 35-year-old distributor, and five 20+ year-old dump trucks; a replacement paver was estimated at about $300,000. The department has an unappropriated balance of about $2.5 million. Upcoming bridge projects include Darmstadt, Wimberg, Hogue, and Old State Road. - National Events Plaza/VenueWorks: Scott Schoenike presented a relatively flat budget. VenueWorks has managed the plaza for 10 months and improved performance by about $600,000 over the prior 12 months, roughly 33% better; the focus is now on increasing sales. - Explore Evansville and Tourism Capital Improvement: The Explore Evansville budget is $2.48 million, $21,000 less than expected revenue. Reported marketing growth: 121 group-sales leads versus 83 all last year, 70 contracted events versus 51 all last year, 52,000 room nights toward a 65,000 goal versus 25,000 at this point last year, social impressions up 92%, engagements up 21%, clicks up 102%, 830,000 followers, and a 34% email open rate versus 28% industry standard. The TCI request is $2.1 million, including a $1.29 million bond payment; naming-rights sponsorship at the sports park increased 115%. Key Outcomes - All recorded Council votes passed 7-0. - Approved appropriations and transfers as summarized above; Public Defender appropriation was $335,000 rather than the requested $445,000, with the transcripts line at $0. - Old Farm Reserve bond ordinance passed first reading; second reading scheduled for September 2, 2026. - Sent the 2027 property tax levy limit recommendation letter to taxing units. - Appointed Brian Gerth to MUST. - Day 1 budget hearings concluded after 15 department heads presented 29 budgets. Day 2 is scheduled for August 13 at 9:00 a.m.; a city/county joint department review is set for August 26 at 3:00 p.m.; the September 2 council meeting will be followed by budget cuts at 3:30 p.m. - No formal Council votes were recorded during the Day 1 budget hearing itself; it consisted of departmental presentations and discussion.

The Evansville Fire Merit Commission met on August 11, 2026, at 4:00 PM in Room 307 of the Civic Center Complex. All appointed commissioners were present, constituting a quorum. The commission approved routine items, received the chief's report, and certified a new lieutenant promotional list. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the July 14, 2026 regular meeting. - Approved a claim of $11,000 from Testing for Public Safety (TPS) for lieutenant promotional testing and interviews. Both motions passed without opposition. Report from the Chief - Recruit Academy: All recruits are in fire training and performing well; all have successfully completed the National Registry EMT exams. - Probationary Firefighters: The first recruit academy class is now assigned to stations and performing well; all have also passed the National Registry EMT exams. - Promotion Probation Period: None ending in August 2026. - Discipline: A verbal warning was issued for a violation of Sick Call Policy 302; the warning was not contested. - Promotions: Firefighter Nathan Klassy was promoted to lieutenant on July 26, 2026. He was the last name on the current list, which prompted the creation of a new list. - Note: The transcript refers to the reporting officer as Chief Garrett, while the agenda lists Fire Chief Tony Knight; the discrepancy is noted. New Business - The Chief presented the certified lieutenant promotional list, ranking candidates one through ten. The commission voted to certify the list with no opposition. Announcements - The next meeting is scheduled for September 8, 2026, in Room 307. Key Outcomes - Approved the July 14, 2026 minutes. - Approved the $11,000 claim for Testing for Public Safety. - Certified the new lieutenant promotional list. - Received the chief's report on recruit and probationary firefighter progress, discipline, and the promotion of Nathan Klassy.

The Affordable Housing Trust Fund (AHTF) Advisory Committee met on August 11, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. in Room 307 of the Civic Center Complex. Acting Vice Chair Melissa Stinson called the meeting to order and led the roll call. The committee approved the minutes from July 14, 2026, received a financial report showing limited available funds, discussed significant updates to program guidelines, reviewed the status of existing projects (including a delinquent loan to TrueVest), and deferred new pre-approvals. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The minutes from the July 14, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously on a motion by Gwendolyn Wagner, seconded by Ruth Metzger. Discussion Items - Financial Report: Melissa Stinson reported that total funds available for grants and loans stood at $46,403.16. This figure includes the previously committed $250,000 to Echo (expected to be needed in 2027) but does not account for four home repair pre-approvals from July (bids not yet received). Stinson advised against new commitments until the City Council adopts the 2027 budget in October, noting the committee is in a “limbo” period. Some loan repayment from TrueVest is anticipated. - Guidelines Discussion: Attorney Aaron Allen presented a comprehensive update to the AHTF guidelines, comprising two major changes and many smaller ones: - Right of First Refusal: New provisions require developers who receive AHTF funds to offer properties to the city (or partner affordable housing organizations) before selling to a market-rate buyer, preserving long-term affordability. Tenants in single-family rentals would also get a right of first refusal to purchase their home. - Strengthened Loan Enforcement: A formal delinquency and default process was introduced, with escalating notices (15, 40, 60, and 90 days past due) and referral to legal counsel. Additional covenants will be recorded on property titles. - Interest Rate for For-Profit Developers: Guidelines now specify that for-profit developer loans shall bear interest at the Wall Street Journal prime rate minus 0.25%, measured on the date of Board of Public Works approval. This was previously unwritten. - Late Charges: Section 7 of the proposed policy sets a late charge of $10. Committee members questioned whether this is appropriate for businesses (vs. homeowners) and suggested a higher amount for for-profit developers; no change was adopted today. - Update on Current Projects: - TrueVest Loan: Stinson reported that TrueVest is approximately eight months behind on loan repayments. TrueVest is partnering with Champion Homes for modular construction to accelerate completion and sale of existing properties. The Land Bank recently granted a 12-month extension. Stinson asked the board to consider aligning with the Land Bank’s extension. Members expressed concerns about modular homes’ insulation standards and market fit. Stinson recommended requiring TrueVest to appear in person at the next meeting and to present a written repayment plan. No formal vote was taken. - Other Projects: Ravenswood rehab (Memorial) is ongoing; Hope’s down payment assistance program has spent its full $60,000 grant; Advantics’ scattered-site project is stalled due to lack of an investor; Grandview Towers is expected to close soon with construction starting this month; Mina’s Place continues; four pre-approved home repairs are awaiting bids. Key Outcomes - No New Pre-Approvals: Due to limited budget and pending 2027 funding clarity, the committee skipped pre-approval of new home repair projects. - Guidelines Review Ongoing: The committee will receive a redlined version of the updated guidelines via email and will discuss feedback and potential adoption at the September 2026 meeting. - TrueVest Extension Held: The board did not vote on extending TrueVest’s loan due date but agreed to consider aligning with the Land Bank’s extension. TrueVest must send a representative to the September meeting with a detailed plan, including specifics on modular construction, repayment terms, and progress checkpoints.

The Port Authority Board met on August 10, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. (noon) to approve previous minutes, discuss the potential sale of the mooring dock facility, receive a financial report, and approve accounts payable vouchers. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The board approved the July 13, 2026 meeting memorandum and minutes by voice vote with no opposition. Discussion Items - Old Business – Mooring Dock Update: Board members discussed the potential sale of the mooring dock asset. Purchasing representative Dashne Shares reported contacting Stanley (an auctioneer/valuation firm) regarding historical records from 2005, but scans were not yet located. Board members expressed interest in maximizing sale price while also relieving the city of rental payments. They considered options for auctioning the property (sealed bid vs. public internet bidding) and requested cost estimates from two interested auctioneers and possibly from Lee Thompson for valuation. One board member noted a report that the facility leaks. The board directed staff to obtain fee proposals for auction and valuation services. - Finance Report (R. Gunter): Mr. Gunter presented preliminary financials as of July 31, 2026. Key points: other receipts up 100% due to full-year park fund billing; electric service up 16%; rent payments changed from Inland Arena to Moy, causing expenses to increase nearly 30.5%. The fund ended July with a net increase of $34,235, cash on hand of $95,720, and investments of $52,573, for a total of $148,293. - Accounts Payable Voucher Register: The board reviewed vouchers for July 21, 2026 (Southern Indiana Gas & Electric: $207.97 and $4,605.33 for electric at LST Drive and North Riverside) and August 7, 2026 (City of Evansville: $2.74 postage; Evansville Waterworks: $470.20 for water at 610 Northwest Riverside). A board member noted that rent for the marina (operated by a private owner) had not been paid for June and July; staff was asked to follow up on receiving those bills. Key Outcomes - Motion to approve the July 13, 2026 meeting minutes – carried unanimously. - Motion to approve the accounts payable vouchers – carried unanimously. - Directive: Staff will contact two interested auctioneers and Lee Thompson to obtain fee proposals for auction and valuation of the mooring dock facility. - Follow-up: Staff will seek unpaid marina rent invoices from the marina owner. Note: The agenda listed "New Business: N/A" which was acknowledged as no new business.