Public Meetings - Evansville, Indiana

The Evansville Police Merit Commission met in open session on Monday, June 22, 2026, at 4:17 PM in Room 307 of the Civic Center Complex. Prior to the open session, the commission held an executive session closed to the public under Indiana Code provisions for interviewing prospective employees, discussing alleged misconduct, and evaluating job performance of individual employees (I.C. 5-14-1.5-6.1(b)(5), (6)(A), and (9)). The open session addressed routine approvals, promotional list certifications, and a scheduling accommodation. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (June 8, 2026): Minutes from the June 8, 2026 meeting were approved. (Commissioners Sutton and Thompson recorded as present.) - Approval of Claims: Claims totaling $234 were approved unanimously. - Probationary Officer Update: The commission acknowledged receipt of updates on probationary officers in field training and the SWILEA program; no action was taken. - Applicant Process – Recruitment Materials: The commission approved a request from Sergeant Ben Brasher (identified as “Sergeant Bradford” in the transcript) for $1,365 to purchase recruitment materials. Note: A name discrepancy exists between the agenda (Brasher) and the transcript (Bradford). - Promotional List Certification – Deputy Chief: The 2026 Deputy Chief Promotional List was certified, effective June 26, 2026, through June 25, 2028. - Promotional List Certification – Captain: The 2026 Captain Promotional List was certified, effective June 26, 2026, through June 25, 2028. - Purchase of Candidate Feedback Reports: The commission approved the purchase of candidate feedback reports for participants of the 2026 Captain Promotional process. - Accommodation Request – Sergeant Exam: The commission approved Officer Kyle Campbell’s request for an accommodation on the date and time of the 2026 Sergeant Promotional Exam. Key Outcomes - All consent calendar items were approved via voice votes with unanimous support (seconded motions, all “aye” votes). - The next regular meeting was scheduled for Monday, July 6, 2026, at 4:15 PM. Adjournment The meeting adjourned immediately following the actions above; no precise adjournment time was recorded.

The Board of Zoning Appeals met on June 18, 2026, at 3:00 PM in Room 301 of the Civic Center. The meeting began with a roll call (five members present: Ms. Cobble, Ms. Kasha, Mr. Rudolph, Mr. Shetler, Mr. Zayner, Ms. Payne) and approval of the May meeting minutes. A recorded statement of procedures was played. Two petitions were continued to the July 16 meeting. The board then heard and acted on eight docketed cases, including one special use request and seven variance requests. Consent Calendar - Approval of the memorandum of the May meeting (unanimous). Discussion Items - Continuances to July 16, 2026: - Variance 2026-017 (11216 Walnut Road, petitioner Jacob Hunt) - Variance 2026-030 (3300 Edgewood Drive, petitioner Seth Durner) - SPU-2026-003 (4100 Covert Avenue) – Landmark Recovery/Universal Health Realty: Petitioner did not appear for a second continuance; staff had no response to contact attempts. Board voted 5-0 to continue the petition without a date, allowing the petitioner to pay a fee to re-agenda without a one-year moratorium. - SPU-2026-004 (16035 North Volkman Road) – Robert Redden III: Petitioner absent. A letter from County Commissioner Justin Elpers opposing the request (citing safety concerns, parcel size, proximity to homes, potential rifle use) and an email from County Engineer John Stoll about erosion/sediment issues were read into the record. Two remonstrators, Robert Murphy and John Sarrad, spoke against the proposal, citing unsightly conditions, safety, and the petitioner’s financial inability to develop. Board voted 5-0 to deny the special use. Staff indicated denial would trigger enforcement of existing zoning violations regarding unpermitted structures and RV living. - VAR-2026-028 (1717 North Green River Road) – Greer Investments LLC: Request to increase on-premise signs from three to six to accommodate new KIBA branding. Petitioner Scott Elpers explained the signs are mostly existing with new faces. No remonstrators. Approved 5-0. - VAR-2026-031 (7931 North St. Joseph Road) – Jack Crowell: Request to reduce front yard setback for an accessory structure from 200 ft to 118 ft due to topography and utilities. No remonstrators. Approved 5-0. - VAR-2026-032 (3059 Grove Street) – Eric Reedford: Request to allow accessory structures larger than the main house (total 2,192 sq ft vs. 1,040 sq ft house) and two driveways on combined lots. Petitioner Ryan Sermersheim described plans for a pole barn on a lot purchased and combined. No remonstrators. Approved 5-0. - VAR-2026-033 (5807 Big Cynthia Road) – Scott McCord: Request to allow taller accessory structure (existing pole barn) and wider driveway (46 ft vs. 24 ft max). Petitioner Matt Lehman explained contractor errors and miscommunication about setbacks. A neighbor, Jim Carnes, spoke in support. Remonstrator was not present; staff noted anonymous complaints about driveway and building proximity. County engineer John Stoll had no objections to the driveway variance (email read). Board discussed construction deviations but only heard the two variance issues. Approved 5-0. - VAR-2026-034 (717/721-723 West Franklin Street) – Shireen Real Estate LLC: Request to reduce parking from 21 to 15 spaces and eliminate required landscaping island for conversion of a vacant retail building to 15 apartments. Petitioner Matt Lehman described the project targeting Barry employees. Remonstrator Brian Hutchinson (owner of adjacent commercial property) expressed concern about parking overflow onto his lots. Board discussed requiring numbered, permit-only parking spaces to prevent overflow. Approved 5-0 with condition that each unit has a designated, numbered parking space. - VAR-2026-035 (7920 Newburgh Road) – Christopher Kiefer: Request to allow accessory structures larger than main house (3,006 sq ft vs. 856 sq ft house) for a 2,600 sq ft pole barn. Petitioner confirmed personal use and neighbor approval. No remonstrators. Approved 5-0. - VAR-2026-036 (5230 North First Avenue) – CNS Incorporated: Request to increase on-premise signs from three to five for a gas station updating Marathon and Circle S branding. Petitioner Scott Elpers explained branding standards necessitate additional signs. No remonstrators. Board discussed industry trends but approved 5-0. - VAR-2026-037 (4645 Keebler Road) – Jeffrey West: Request to allow accessory structures larger than main house (1,720 sq ft vs. 1,218 sq ft house) for a new pole barn and carport after demolishing existing garage. No remonstrators. Approved 5-0. Key Outcomes - May meeting minutes approved unanimously. - Two variances continued to July 16, 2026. - SPU-2026-003 continued without date (petitioner to re-agenda). - SPU-2026-004 denied (5-0); enforcement of existing violations to follow. - Seven variance petitions approved (all 5-0) with one condition (VAR-2026-034: numbered permit parking). - Meeting adjourned after all agenda items.

The Board of Public Works convened on June 18, 2026, to address a series of routine approvals, contract authorizations, and project updates. The meeting included approval of prior minutes, bid openings, and several new business items, all passed unanimously by voice vote. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes from the June 11, 2026 meeting. - Approved a motion to open bids for the 2026 Pavement Crack Sealing Project (Project No. 26-011). Bids were later opened and taken under advisement. New Business - Human Relations Commission Office Surplus: Approved surplus of outdated office items. - Consulting Services Contract: Approved a contract and addendum with TA Dickle Consulting LLC for strategic planning, leadership development, and creative problem solving facilitation training for three advisory boards. Total contract amount not to exceed $15,875. - Tire Supply and Related Services: Approved advertisement for APA-01-2026 for tire supply and related services. - Electrical Facility Relocations: Approved a contract with Southern Indiana Gas and Electric Company (dba CenterPoint Energy Indiana South) for relocating electrical facilities at the Lloyd Expressway Cross Point Roundabout, in the amount of $186,204.22. - Change Order – First Avenue Storm Sewer Replacement: Approved Change Order No. 3 with Blankenberger Brothers Inc. for additional work on an existing underground storm line discovered during excavation, increasing the contract by $13,320.35 to a new total of $325,080.42, with a zero-dollar contract extension to June 30, 2026. - Right of Entry – 115 North Cross Point Boulevard: Approved a right of entry to install a temporary drive connecting the west side of the parking area to Cross Point Boulevard during roundabout construction, allowing access for customers and delivery trucks. - Right-of-Way Permit Applications: Approved applications 3014 through 3023 as submitted; exceptions taken on applications 3012 and 3013 (work in county). Required compliance with Indiana MUTCD maintenance of traffic procedures and possible Board of Public Safety approval for lane restrictions or street closures. - Bossey Avenue Road Embankment Repairs: Approved seeking quotes for embankment repairs due to a sliding embankment causing a hole in the road north of Claremont (Project No. 26-014). - 2026 Full Depth Patching Project: Approved seeking quotes for full-depth patching of failed pavement and sub-base in several identified areas citywide (Project No. 26-013). Bid Opening – Pavement Crack Sealing Project Three bids were received and opened: - CNC Contractors LLC: Item 1: $4,800 per ton, grand total $283,200; Item 2: $59,000. - Rivertown Construction: Item 1: $7,800 per ton, grand total $460,200; Item 2: $59,600. - Evansville Paving LLC: Item 1: $5,007 per ton, grand total $300,723; Item 2: $43,626. All bids were taken under advisement. Key Outcomes - All motions passed unanimously by voice vote (all "Aye"). - Bids for the pavement crack sealing project were taken under advisement for later award. - Final approval of bills and payroll, and meeting adjourned.

The Evansville Economic Development Commission met on June 18, 2026, at 11:30 AM to approve minutes, hold a public hearing, and vote on a proposal to finance the adaptive reuse of the former Cargus furniture factory into multifamily housing. The meeting concluded with unanimous approval of the report and resolution authorizing $6 million in taxable economic development revenue bonds for the project. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The commission approved the minutes of the previous meeting after correcting the spelling of member Juhl's last name. The motion carried with a second. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public were present to offer comment on the Cargus Lofts proposal. Discussion Items - Cargus Lofts Project Overview: Staff presented the proposed financing for AP Development LLC and AP Cargus Lofts LLC. The project involves adaptive reuse of the former Cargus furniture factory (addresses 1501 West Maryland and 1516 Fountain Avenue) into 125 multifamily units. Total project costs are estimated at $30 million, with $6 million to be issued through taxable economic development revenue bonds. Staff explained that the bonds are a developer-purchase mechanism where the city pledges the project’s tax increment (TIF) revenues to secure a loan, but the city incurs no obligation; any shortfall is the developer’s responsibility. The project is described as workforce housing serving households at 50–80% of area median income. - Commissioner Questions: A new commissioner asked clarifying questions about the bond structure and whether the city is lending money. Staff confirmed the city does not lend; the bonds allow the developer to obtain a larger loan based on the TIF pledge. Another commissioner asked about an affordable housing component; staff clarified the units are workforce housing, not luxury, and not subsidized by low-income housing tax credits. Commissioner Patrick disclosed that his organization (EREP) has a management agreement with the Southwest Indiana Regional Development Authority, which has a subgrant agreement with the project, but he has no personal financial benefit; the chair ruled it was not a conflict under Indiana law. Key Outcomes - Approval of Resolution 26 EEDC 02: The commission voted unanimously (all ayes) to approve the report and resolution authorizing the $6 million in taxable economic development revenue bonds for the Cargus Lofts project. The motion included both the report (Item 3a) and the resolution (Item 3b). - No Other Business: The commission had no other business to discuss and adjourned.

The Board of Parks Commissioners met on June 17, 2026, to approve several routine actions, consider new requests, and open bids. All votes were unanimous. Key items included approval of an anti-idling sign campaign by the Evansville Climate Collaborative, a change order for the Lloyd Pool splash pad project, tree removal contracts, survey services, and facility renovation awards. The meeting also opened bids for Wesselman tennis court lighting. Consent Calendar - Approved the meeting memorandum from June 3, 2026 (motion by voice vote). - Approved the consent agenda, which included: - Agreement with Train USA Inc. for Amazonia recommissioning controls at Mesker Park Zoo and Botanic Garden. - Permission to donate two golf passes for the Tri-State Senior Wishes Fundraiser. - Swim team coordinator services agreements with Jeremy Wolfe and Lindsay Briley. All consent items were approved unanimously without opposition. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comment was offered when the floor was opened. Discussion Items - Anti-Idling Signs Campaign: A representative of the Evansville Climate Collaborative requested permission to place educational anti-idling yard signs in parking lots at Swander Ice Arena, Wesselman Park, Deaconess Aquatic Center, Garvin Park, Riverfront Parks, Lorraine Pool, Mosby Pool, Rochelle Pool, and CK Newsome Center. The campaign aims to reduce vehicle idling, improve air quality, and raise public awareness during summer months when ozone issues are worse. The signs were created by high school students in a 2024 contest with WNIN. Approximately 350 signs will be placed mid-June through mid-August, with no enforcement involved—only education. The collaborative already obtained permission from other entities. A commissioner expressed support for the collaborative’s work. The board approved the request unanimously. - Lloyd Pool Change Order: Danielle presented Change Order No. 1 with Art Construction for the old Lloyd Pool foundation and underground utilities in the amount of $25,562.29. The change was needed because footings from the former pool were unearthed during excavation for the splash pad; the original demolition alternate was not accepted due to funding. Funds are available within the project contingency. Approved unanimously. - Tree Removal Contract: Request to execute an agreement with Halter Tree Service for removal of hazardous trees and stumps at multiple parks (Wesselman Park, Van Park, Van Pollock, North Alliver Boulevard, Anthony Oates, and CK Newsome Community Center) for $45,800. The tree advisory board had previously approved. A policy of replacing removed trees at a 2:1 ratio was confirmed, with planting likely through the Evansville Forestry Alliance in the fall. Approved unanimously. - Survey Services for TP Park Splash Pad: Professional services agreement with Morley and Associates for land survey services related to shade structure installation at TP Park. EWSU required utility locates and easements due to the parcel’s history. The splash pad is already operational; painting requires dry weather conditions. Approved unanimously. - Global Soccer Restroom Renovations: Execution of an agreement with Midwest Construction for the project. The board had previously approved the award but not yet executed the contract; execution was needed to allow start of work. Approved unanimously. - CK Newsome Renovations: Award and execution of an agreement with Garmong for renovations at the CK Newsome Community Center. Garmong was the low and most responsive bidder per purchasing’s recommendation. Work is expected to begin by end of June with tentative completion by January 1, 2027. Approved unanimously. - Wesselman Tennis Lighting Bids: Two bids were opened: - Amerlight Power: Base bid $330,440. - Capitol Electric Inc.: Base bid $374,548. No alternates or unit pricing were submitted. The bids will be reviewed by purchasing for recommendation. Key Outcomes - All requested actions were approved unanimously by voice vote with no opposition. - Bids for Wesselman tennis lighting were opened and referred to purchasing for further review. - Danielle provided a brief report on upcoming community events: - Free community picnic at Howell Park on June 17 from 5–7 p.m. - Juneteenth celebration at Bayard Park on June 19 from 2–9 p.m. - Midnight basketball (3v3 tournament for grades 8–12) at CK Newsome Center on June 19 from 9 p.m. to midnight, featuring s’mores, tie-dye, taco bar, and a DJ. - Payroll and vendor claims were accepted and approved.

The Evansville Animal Control and Education Commission held a special hearing on June 17, 2026, to determine whether a dog named Envy, owned by Brandy Jones, should be declared dangerous following two biting/charging incidents on May 28, 2026. The commission heard testimony from complainants, the owner, and witnesses, deliberated publicly, and voted on the dangerous animal determination and associated restrictions. Public Comments & Testimony - Complainant Michelle Martin: Testified that on May 28, 2026, while walking on the sidewalk on South Alvord Boulevard (outside the owner's property), a dog ran from the driveway and bit her leg. She reported the dog charged at others, including a mailman and another runner, while she waited for animal control. She stated she was not on the owner's property and did not agitate the dog. The bite required antibiotics and will leave a small scar. - Complainant Jamie Emig (E-M-I-G): Testified that on the same day, while jogging on the opposite side of the street (east side, against traffic), she saw the dog charging across the street toward her. She avoided being bitten but was terrified. She noted the dog was already loose and later saw it return to the house through a side entrance. She expressed concern for children and other pedestrians on the family-friendly running/walking street. - Respondent Brandy Jones: Stated she was asleep at the time (works nights at Toyota) and did not witness the incident. She claimed her 12-year-old son told her about the complaint. She asserted the dog returned through the driveway side door. She said the dog is normally friendly, has never bitten before, and is protective of her four puppies. She presented receipts for fence extenders, security cameras, and no-dig guards. She noted the dog was quarantined at home for 10 days per animal control and is now at the shelter awaiting the decision. - Witness Danny Hernandez (1321 MacArthur Drive): Testified that he has known the dog for two years; she has never been aggressive even around children and loud gatherings. - Witness Carmen Sutton (4115 Jupiter Drive): Testified she has been around the dog for years and never saw aggression; the dog is affectionate. - Witness (unidentified male): Testified he has played with the dog for over a year; the dog is mellow and never attempted to bite, though she is protective of puppies. Discussion Items - The hearing was moderated by Assistant City Attorney Andrew Voykin, who outlined the legal definition of a dangerous animal, the preponderance of evidence standard, and possible restrictions. - The commission reviewed two complaints against the same dog owned by Brandy Jones at 959 South Alvord Boulevard. - Complainants argued the dog charged and bit one person and charged another, causing fear and injury. They emphasized the dog was off the owner's property and not provoked. - The owner argued she does not know what triggered the incident, that the dog is normally gentle, and that she is taking steps to prevent future escapes (fence extenders, cameras, padlocks). She stated the animal control officer told her a different version of events (that the dog jumped the fence while the jogger was running along the fence line), which the complainants disputed. - Animal Control Officer McDaniel reported no prior history with the dog; the dog has shown no aggression at the shelter. - Commission members discussed whether the incident constituted a dangerous animal under the ordinance, noting the dog left its property and caused injury. They agreed the injury did not meet the “serious bodily injury” standard. Key Outcomes 1. Probable Cause Vote: The commission voted unanimously to find probable cause for the dangerous dog hearing (motion by Linda, second by Tammy; all ayes). 2. Dangerous Animal Determination: The commission voted to declare Envy a dangerous dog (motion by Linda, second by Tammy; all ayes, no nays). 3. Serious Bodily Injury Determination: The commission voted that no serious bodily injury occurred (motion by Linda, second by Tammy; all ayes, no nays). 4. Restrictions Imposed: The commission approved the following restrictions (motion by Linda, second by Tammy; all ayes): - When outdoors and unattended, the animal must be kept within a locked fenced area from which it cannot escape. - When outdoors and attended, the animal must be kept within a fenced area from which it cannot escape. - When off the owner’s property, the animal must be on a leash no longer than six feet and under the control of a person 18 years or older. - Placement of warning signs at the front and back perimeters of the property (current signs deemed acceptable). - The animal must be spayed at owner’s expense (owner agreed; release permitted prior to spay to schedule appointment). - The animal must be permanently identified by microchip or tattoo. - If any restrictions are not complied with, the owner may face a fine of up to $2,500. - If a further incident occurs, the commission may impose additional restrictions, including humane destruction if serious bodily injury results. 5. Appeal Rights: Both parties may appeal the decision within 10 days (by June 27, 2026) to Vanderburgh Superior or Circuit Court. 6. Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned (motion by Linda, second by Tammy; all ayes).

The Vanderburgh County Board of Commissioners convened on June 16, 2026 at 9:30 a.m., followed by the Drainage Board meeting. Commissioners approved numerous action items, reviewed 2027 budget requests from several departments, and tabled the selection of a county emergency medical services provider to a future meeting. The Drainage Board approved a regulated drain application, ditch claims, and discussed a pending response from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regarding a stream obstruction. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the May 26, 2026 Board of Commissioners meeting and special meeting. - Approved the Commissioners’ 2027 budget request. - Approved employment changes. - Approved claims voucher reports for three periods ending May 29, June 5, and June 12, 2026. - Approved the Clerk’s April 2026 monthly report. - Approved the Engineer’s report and claims. - Approved the Prosecutor’s request to create a new fund and new line items for the Office on Violence Against Women initiative. - Approved the Sheriff’s road closure request for the Evansville Wartime Museum. - Approved the Treasurer’s April 2026 Innkeeper’s Tax Report and May 2026 monthly report. - Approved transfer requests from Commissioners and Riverboat. - Approved an appropriation request for the Convention Center Operating Fund. - Approved the Old National Events Plaza waiver request for Homeless Connect of Southwest Indiana. - Authorized installation of a Daughters of the American Revolution historical monument at Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Coliseum. - Approved the Substance Abuse Council 2026 Comprehensive Community Plan and Local Drug Free Communities Fund. - Appointed Alfonso Vidal and Pepper Mulherin to the Vanderburgh County Economic Development Commission. - Appointed Joseph Harrison, Jr. as County Hearing Officer. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak or offered comment during the public comment period. Discussion Items - Selection of County Emergency Medical Services Provider (Old Business): President Elpers moved to table the final decision to the June 30, 2026 meeting to allow more time for details to be finalized. The motion passed unanimously. - Charlotte Avenue Pipe Replacement (Action Item A1): Engineer John presented the bid from Deig Bros, Inc. as the lowest at $94,609 for replacing a failed storm sewer section. Approved unanimously. - Change Order 3 – Boonville-New Harmony Road Reconstruction (A2): The change order increased the contract by $204,719.81, primarily due to unforeseen poor soil conditions adding $150,000. Approved unanimously. - Sidewalk Waiver Request – The Nest Subdivision (A3): The Area Plan Commission recommended denial (5-2). The petitioner was not present. Commissioners tabled the request to allow the petitioner to attend a future meeting via virtual or in-person. Approved unanimously. - INDOT Letter of Understanding – Detour for SR 57 Project (A4): INDOT will construct a single-lane roundabout and sidewalk at Green River Road; the project requires a detour on local roads (Boonville-New Harmony Road) for an expected 60–90 days. The agreement allows reimbursement for wear and tear. Approved unanimously. - Acceptance of Street Improvements – Chase Drive at Hunter Chase Subdivision (A5): The small cul-de-sac road had been used for years; punch list items including crack sealing were completed. Approved unanimously. - County Right-of-Way Encroachment Agreement with USGS – Lynch Road over Pigeon Creek (A6): The Pigeon Creek Watershed Development Commission will attach a stream gauge to the bridge, providing continuous water flow and quality data updated every 15 minutes via satellite. Approved unanimously. - Health Department – Amendment 1 to Indiana Department of Health Grant (B1): The amendment increases the contract by $25,000 to a total of $45,000 for emergency preparedness. Approved unanimously. - Health Department – Ordinance CO.06-26-012 (B2): First reading of an ordinance establishing a Non-Reverting Health Promotion Program Fund to bill Medicaid for services. Commissioners approved the first reading and then waived the second reading to approve it final on the same day after confirming no public objection. Approved unanimously. - Jigsaw Digital Strategies Logo Development (C): A quotation not to exceed $6,400 for a new county logo as part of the website transition from eGov to Civic Plus. Commissioner Canterbury noted the current logo is outdated. Approved unanimously. - Resolution CO.R-06-26-015 – Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan (D): Cliff from the Watershed Commission explained the resolution adopts the updated five-year plan required for FEMA funding and flood insurance discounts. The plan has been reviewed by the state and FEMA. Approved unanimously. - Resolution CO.R-06-26-016 – Stormwater Drainage Control Ordinance (E): First reading of an ordinance adopting Chapter 13.04. Final reading scheduled for the next meeting. Approved unanimously. - Department Head Reports – 2027 Budget Reviews: - Weights and Measures: Budget flat; no major needs anticipated for 5–10 years; two new inspectors hired; fuel consumption decreased. - Engineering: Upcoming bridge projects include Wimber bridge (2027), Broadway Avenue over Carpenter Creek (after Lloyd Expressway work), Hogue’s Bridge (design phase), Old State Road bridge (2030), and Darmstadt Road bridge rehab (2029). Staffing vacancies (one engineer, one inspector) remain unfilled; salaries budgeted at $73,953 and $47,828 respectively. Road projects funded by TIF (Petersburg Road, Oak Hill Road, Hornby Lane). Community Crossings paving expected to be awarded in October 2026, pushing work into early 2027. A potential statewide revenue reduction (estimated $400+ million) could impact future funding. - Highway Department: Requested increases in overtime (from $1,000 to $10,000), materials (from $1.5 million to $1.7 million), and utilities due to rising costs. A new heating system ($70,000–$80,000) will be funded from FEMA money; other building upgrades needed (windows, waste disposal site). Salt supply adequate (3,500 tons). - Health Department: Health Fund (1159) increased by $5,000 on a $3.8 million budget; HFI funding (1161) decreased due to state cuts but level for 2026-27; optimistic about future state increases. TANF funding secured through September 2027. Exploring evidence-based designation for the 3-to-3 program to access national funders. - Purdue Extension: Transitioning to a regional, population-based model; contractual services increased by approximately $60,000, offset by decreases in travel and computer line items. Commissioners noted the increase is significant compared to prior years. - Burdette Park: Season pass sales reached $85,000 (second-highest total, behind 2024); over 25,000 visitors so far. Budget increases for linens ($5,000), communications ($10,000 for streaming conversion), pool chemicals (nearly doubled), uniforms, and solid waste disposal. Plans to host new corporate clients (Romani Automotive, Diocese of Evansville). Current staffing 150 employees. - Soil and Water Conservation District, Veteran Services, Computer Services, Superintendent of County Buildings: Not present; will be consulted later. Key Outcomes - Tabled: Selection of county EMS provider to June 30, 2026. - Approved unanimously: All action items listed above (bids, change orders, agreements, ordinances, resolutions, and consent items) with the noted exception of the sidewalk waiver which was tabled. - Directive: The Engineering and Highway departments will discuss staffing vacancies further with commissioners. - Directive: The Drainage Board will send a formal letter to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers seeking guidance on permitted work within jurisdictional streams regarding a property obstruction. - Next Steps: Final reading of the Stormwater Drainage Control Ordinance at the next meeting; logo development to be completed by June 19, 2026; USGS stream gauge installation to proceed pending signatures.

The Evansville Redevelopment Commission held a regular meeting on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 2:30 PM (CT). The commission approved routine items, held a public hearing on a bond refunding, and awarded contracts for demolition and signage design. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Minutes of May 19, 2026 Meeting: Approved as written without correction. - Accounts Payable Voucher Register: Approved. During discussion, a commissioner asked about the duration of the Ernst Berger engineering contract. Commission staff replied that the contract has no fixed end date due to complex coordination with city departments and utilities, and noted a 2-month delay on the Virginia Path extension caused by a city grant issue. Staff stated they had reworked the work plan to avoid $2 million in extra costs, but a one-year project delay is possible if a new grant cycle is needed. Public Hearing - Resolution 26 ERC 13 – Refunding Bonds: The commission opened a public hearing for a resolution authorizing the issuance of up to $5.3 million in refunding bonds. Staff explained the proceeds will repay current Evansville Vision bonds, allowing the release of two properties that will become the site of The Republic. No public comments were offered. The hearing was closed, and the resolution was approved unanimously. Discussion & Action Items - Resolution 26 ERC 14 – Demolition Contract for 305–309 North Main Street: Staff reported that the commission had previously approved purchase of 301–309 North Main Street. The building at 305–309 had a roof collapse, prompting an emergency bid process through the Code Enforcement Building Commission. Only one bid was received, from STEMly Excavating, in the amount of $20,900. A commissioner noted the structure is a visible hazard and a prime location for redevelopment near new housing. The resolution awarding the contract was approved unanimously. - Resolution 26 ERC 15 – Signage Design Agreement with Sprout Design: This resolution authorizes a $2,280 agreement with Sprout Design (Rachel Wombach) to design and develop signage for the Arts District redevelopment area. The cost includes $1,440 for design services and $120 per panel for up to seven event panels (total $2,280). The signage will be installed at Shawnee and Veterans Memorial Parkway, temporarily affixed to a handrail, with magnetic panels for rotating event promotions. Target installation date is August 14, 2026, in time for Front Porch Fest. The resolution was approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - All motions and resolutions were approved unanimously (voice votes with no opposition). - Resolution 26 ERC 13 authorizes up to $5.3 million in refunding bonds to release properties for The Republic development. - Resolution 26 ERC 14 awards a $20,900 demolition contract to STEMly Excavating for 305–309 North Main Street. - Resolution 26 ERC 15 authorizes a $2,280 signage design agreement with Sprout Design, with installation targeted by August 14, 2026. - No other new business was brought before the commission; the meeting was adjourned.

The Pigeon Creek Watershed Development Commission met on June 15, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. (Evansville time) with a quorum of four members present. The meeting covered a broad work plan presentation, discussions on regulatory authority, approval of discretionary spending, and updates on ongoing projects including a USGS stream gauge and Lair grant. Consent Calendar - Approved consent items as presented (motion by Linda Freeman, second by Christy Johnson, unanimous with 3 ayes; Cheryl Musgrave had excused herself). Discussion Items - Drainage Ordinance & Commission Authority: Justin led a discussion on the current county drainage ordinance (Section 13.04.015) which exempts direct discharge into Pigeon Creek or the Ohio River from detention requirements. Concerns were raised about flooding impacts and the need for a formal review process for developments near the creek. Motion carried to have attorney Craig research and provide guidance on the commission's regulatory powers within the watershed (motion by Karen Barnville, second by Christy Johnson, unanimous with 3 ayes). - Presentation of Draft Work Plan: Beth (Christopher Burke) presented a draft work plan covering key findings, alternatives (active/passive), and recommendations. The report addresses flooding, debris removal, flood storage, and ordinance reviews. Public involvement was discussed; concerns were raised about the lack of water quality and recreation components, and efforts to increase public awareness (e.g., evening meetings, social media, U of E kayak group) were noted. Board members expressed support for including the log jam at the S-curve for further evaluation. - On-Call Services Contract: Beth explained an umbrella on-call contract for future task orders (e.g., debris removal design). A previous discussion suggested a $20,000 annual cap, but the draft contract had not yet been reviewed by legal. Motion to table for Craig's review passed (motion by Cheryl Musgrave, second by Christy Johnson, 3 ayes). The board clarified that a $20,000 cap should be included in the final agreement. - Discretionary Spending Authority: Justin proposed authorizing up to $500 in discretionary spending between meetings for routine operational needs (e.g., fuel, external hard drive) with subsequent board approval. Motion carried (motion by Justin, second by Karen Barnville, 3 ayes). - Financial Report & 2025 Review: The board approved a motion for bookkeeper Jamie Rutherford to review 2025 financial filings for compliance, at an additional hourly cost of $25 (motion by Christy Johnson, second by Cheryl Musgrave, 3 ayes). Key Outcomes - Work Plan Feedback: Board members to provide written comments by June 29, 2026. Beth will update the draft and present the GIS inventory tool at the August meeting. - On-Call Contract: Tabled for legal review; $20,000 annual cap affirmed by board consensus. - Discretionary Spending: Up to $500 approved between meetings for limited operational expenses. - CD Investments: Three-month (3.70%) and six-month (4.11%) CDs placed at United Fidelity Bank as previously discussed. - USGS Stream Gauge: Encroachment agreement drafted for Vanderburgh County Commissioners; USGS awaits approval to begin construction. - Lair Grant: Existing grant can be used at a different location; meeting scheduled with Doug Newsbaum for site evaluation. Additional grant cycle deadline may move to end of 2026. - Website: Nearly complete; link to be sent to board for review by end of the week; GIS link will be added later. The meeting adjourned at 11:55 a.m.