Public Meetings - Evansville, Indiana

The Evansville Board of Zoning Appeals met on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at 2:37 p.m. in the Civic Center Complex. A quorum was established, the board approved the September meeting minutes, heard one special use petition, decided numerous variance requests, and handled other business. Two previously continued variance petitions were continued again to the November 19, 2026 meeting. Opening and Administrative Items - The September memorandum of minutes was approved unanimously. - VAR-2026-067 (2200 N. Burkhardt Rd) and VAR-2026-080 (3526 Interstate Dr) were not heard and were continued to the November 19, 2026 meeting. - The next regular meeting will be Thursday, November 19, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. in Room 301 of the Civic Center Complex. Special Use – SPU-2026-009 (5400 Lincoln Ave) - Igleheart Foundation Inc., represented by attorney Maria Bulkley, requested Special Use 24 for a private recreational facility to operate a nonprofit art gallery on a 3.28-acre site. The plan includes changing art exhibits, workshops, speakers, and canvas painting, plus improvements to an existing garage. - Bulkley said the site had been assembled by removing dilapidated houses, brought in over 2,000 triaxle loads of fill, installed an underground detention basin, and added sidewalks along Lincoln Avenue. Traffic on Lincoln Avenue would be right-in/right-out. - Staff told the board that parking would be 28 spaces for an event-center classification, 21 for a retail art gallery, or 17 for an auction gallery. The petitioner asked for a 28-space minimum because the site could accommodate it. - No remonstrators appeared. The board approved Special Use 24 with a minimum of 28 on-site parking spaces by a vote of 7 to 0. Variance Requests - VAR-2026-058 – 1922 W. Indiana St (Evansville Historic Homes Inc.): Request to reduce rear yard greenspace from 5 ft to 0 ft and parking from 6 to 2 spaces to legalize a change of use to two multifamily dwellings with four units. No remonstrators. Approved 7 to 0. - VAR-2026-061 – 5800 Kansas Rd (American Tree Experts and Landscaping): Request to reduce the industrial setback abutting residential property from 20 ft to 0 ft along the side and rear property lines and to allow gravel parking in lieu of paved parking. The owner said he would comply with the 8-ft opaque fence requirement and no longer burn debris. No remonstrators. Approved 7 to 0. - VAR-2026-065 – 7201 Holly Dr (Margaret Shadduck): Request to reduce required road frontage from 20 ft to 15 ft to allow parcelization and construction of a second single-family residence for the owner's autistic son. A surveyor said the frontage had been in place for 50 to 60 years, a new septic system had been designed and reviewed by the State Health Department, and drainage was adequate. No remonstrators. Approved 7 to 0. - VAR-2026-069 – 6515 & 6519 Happel Rd (Daryl & Terri Wheat): Request to allow a new 2,760 sq ft, 22-ft-tall pole barn to exceed the residence height by 5 ft. Personal use; neighbors did not object. No remonstrators. Approved 7 to 0. - VAR-2026-070 – 917 S. St. James Blvd (David Armstrong): Request to increase maximum lot coverage from 30% to 35% for a new 80 sq ft shed. Personal use. No remonstrators. Approved 7 to 0. - VAR-2026-071 – 11800 Seib Rd (Craig Mueth): Request to allow a new 1,344 sq ft, 17.5-ft-tall detached garage to exceed the residence height by 5.5 ft. Personal use; the garage is 208 ft from the road. No remonstrators. Approved 7 to 0. - VAR-2026-072 – 3700 Kansas Rd (JBI Holdings LLC): Request to relax the required 8-ft opaque fence around outdoor storage to legalize an existing storage area not in compliance with the January 2026 site plan. The applicant agreed to install 8-ft opaque fencing on the south and west sides of the storage area. No remonstrators. Approved 7 to 0. - VAR-2026-073 – 11530 Big Cynthiana Rd (Zachary Coomes): Request to allow a new 2,000 sq ft, 18.7-ft-tall pole barn to be taller and larger than the residence; total accessory structures would exceed the residence by 972 sq ft and 5.7 ft in height. The existing garage would be torn down later. Personal use. No remonstrators. Approved 7 to 0. - VAR-2026-074 – 2201 Koring Rd (Joshua Woodring): Request to allow a new 1,600 sq ft, 22.7-ft-tall pole barn to exceed the residence height by 6.2 ft. Personal use for vehicles and trailers. No remonstrators. Approved 7 to 0. - VAR-2026-075 – 3813 E. Diamond Ave (James Kincheloe): Request to allow a new 1,200 sq ft, 18.3-ft-tall pole barn to exceed the residence height by 4.3 ft. Personal use; only height was at issue. No remonstrators. Approved 7 to 0. - VAR-2026-076 – 13540 Petersburg Rd (Travis Waage): Request to allow accessory structures larger than the residence; a new 3,600 sq ft barn would make total accessory structures exceed the residence by 2,527 sq ft. The petitioner said the barn would hold personal items, trailers, a tractor, and a boat, and that his excavating equipment is kept elsewhere. No remonstrators. Approved 5 to 2. - VAR-2026-077 – 7221 E. Indiana St (Raising Cane's): Request to increase the number of on-premises signs from 3 to 6 for a change of business. The representative said total signage would remain below 500 sq ft. No remonstrators. Approved 6 to 1. - VAR-2026-078 – 1500 N. Green River Rd (The Gaming Guild): Request to increase signs from 3 to 8 and total sign area from 500 to 998 sq ft to legalize existing window signage and allow a new tenant panel. No remonstrators. Approved 6 to 1. - VAR-2026-079 – 4949 Healthy Way (Deaconess Hospital Inc.): Request to increase signs from 2 to 9 and allow an 11-ft monument sign instead of 8 ft for new and updated signage for expanded services in a newly constructed building on an adjoining lot. No remonstrators. Approved 7 to 0. - VAR-2026-081 – 4330 Harmony Hollow Dr (Jeff Weinzapfel): Request to reduce the front-yard setback for an accessory structure from 200 ft to 93 ft. The surveyor explained that the code's road-frontage rule made the garage appear to be in front, although the house faced the opposite direction. No remonstrators. The chair reported approval with 6 yes and 0 no votes. - VAR-2026-082 – 120 S. Red Bank Rd (Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library): Request to reduce front yard greenspace from 25 ft to 4 ft for redevelopment and construction of a new library facility. No remonstrators. The chair reported approval with 6 yes and 0 no votes. - VAR-2026-083 – 100 S. Rosenberger Ave (Ascension St. Vincent): Request to increase signs from 3 to 7 and total sign area from 500 to 526 sq ft to legalize existing building signage installed without permits. No remonstrators. The chair reported approval with 6 yes and 0 no votes. - VAR-2026-084 – Adjacent to 1001 E. Diamond Ave (Ocean Realty LLC): Request to reduce the off-premises sign setback from the right-of-way from 25 ft to 12 ft to replace a static billboard with an electronic unit. The applicant said the original permit predated the updated sign ordinance and supply delays caused the permit to lapse. Board discussion noted that ambient-light dimming and 8-second transitions are required. Approved 6 to 0 with 1 abstention. - VAR-2026-085 – 3625 E. Boonville New Harmony Rd (Nathan Breivogel): Request to allow a detached ADU in front of the principal residence, reduce accessory-structure front-yard setback from 200 ft to 86 ft, and increase accessory lot coverage on an Ag-zone lot from 5,000 to 5,664 sq ft for construction of a 3,564 sq ft residence. The representative said the family was living in a camper after a barn fire. No remonstrators. Approved 7 to 0. Public Comments & Testimony - On VAR-2026-084, Richard B. Myers, owner of a neighboring building for 68 years, opposed the electronic billboard. He said it was aimed at his building, the intersection was dangerous, and it should not be lighted; he stated he would install video surveillance and pursue legal action if necessary. - Andy Morris, a signage-industry representative, supported the applicant for VAR-2026-084. He said industry practice includes minimum 8-second transitions, no motion, and ambient-light dimming, and that the sign had already received state permits. - Martin Kirira, owner of MK Billboards, responded that moving the pole 13 ft back would conform but would not address the remonstrator's concerns; he also noted that drivers already face distractions such as phones. - No remonstrators appeared for any other docket heard at the meeting. Other Business - The board approved staff-prepared findings of fact for an application approved at the previous meeting. The vote was 5 to 0 with 2 abstentions; the two abstaining members had not been present when the underlying application was approved. - A sign-industry representative raised a process concern about pre-permit expenses being spent before BZA approval and asked whether approvals could be made contingent on later compliance, as in some other municipalities. The chair suggested he discuss the matter with staff member Dirk. Key Outcomes - September meeting minutes approved unanimously. - SPU-2026-009 approved (7-0) with a minimum of 28 parking spaces. - VAR-2026-058 approved (7-0). - VAR-2026-061 approved (7-0). - VAR-2026-065 approved (7-0). - VAR-2026-069 approved (7-0). - VAR-2026-070 approved (7-0). - VAR-2026-071 approved (7-0). - VAR-2026-072 approved (7-0) with 8-ft opaque fence on the south and west sides. - VAR-2026-073 approved (7-0). - VAR-2026-074 approved (7-0). - VAR-2026-075 approved (7-0). - VAR-2026-076 approved (5-2). - VAR-2026-077 approved (6-1). - VAR-2026-078 approved (6-1). - VAR-2026-079 approved (7-0). - VAR-2026-081 approved (6-0). - VAR-2026-082 approved (6-0). - VAR-2026-083 approved (6-0). - VAR-2026-084 approved (6-0-1). - VAR-2026-085 approved (7-0). - Findings of fact approved (5-0-2). - VAR-2026-067 and VAR-2026-080 were continued to November 19, 2026.

The Evansville City Board met on October 15, 2026, and approved routine engineering, purchasing, cemetery, right-of-way, and special event items. All motions were made, seconded, and passed by voice vote with no opposition noted. The board also opened bids for the 2026 mill and overlay phase four project. New Business - 2026 Mill and Overlay Phase Four — bid opening approval (Project 26-018): The board approved the City Engineer’s request to open bids for the project. - Tree removal quotes for 212 Cherry Street and the northeast corner of Lincoln Avenue and Garvin Street: The board approved obtaining quotes. One board member expressed sadness about the Cherry Street trees, calling the block beautiful with huge trees, but acknowledged trees have a lifespan. - Animal Care and Control dumpster change with Republic Services: The board approved amending the agreement with BFI Waste Services of Indiana, LP, doing business as Republic Services of Evansville, to replace the existing six-yard dumpster with an eight-yard dumpster. Total contract cost varies. - Forward Together Go grant agreement with Youth Resource of Southwestern Indiana: The board approved a $15,000 grant agreement for the Teen Advisory Council program across 14 schools, funding activities, guest speakers, and efforts to address mental health, substance use, and risky behaviors among youth. Dashay Streeter, appearing on behalf of Holly Travit, said this was the last Forward Together Go grant recipient and offered to obtain further information. - 2026 Oak Hill Cemetery Paving Project (Project 26-01) with E&B Paving LLC: The board approved the agreement for $70,001.66. Staff said E&B Paving was the lowest bidder and the agreement is for insurance purposes, giving the city recourse if the vendor causes damage and disputes responsibility. - Right-of-way permit applications: The board approved Appendix A right-of-way permit applications 3235–3242, 3244–3254, and 3256–3269 with no exceptions as submitted. An exception was taken on application 3243 because the proposed work is in the county. Application 3255 was tabled pending additional information. The approval requires compliant maintenance of traffic procedures per the Indiana MUTCD, possible Board of Public Safety approval before lane restrictions or street closures, and adherence to current city engineering utility repair detail requirements for open pavement cuts. - Barricades, signage, and road closures for approved events: The board approved use of barricades and signage for four events previously approved by the Board of Public Safety on October 14, 2026: - Evansville Police Department Thunderbolts Education Day on Tuesday, November 10, from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m., with approximately 7,000 students arriving on close to 150 school buses. Closures include the outside lane of MLK Junior Boulevard along the Ford Center from Sycamore to Walnut; 6th Street from Maine to Sycamore; 6th Street from Sycamore to Vine; Vine Street from 6th to 5th; Locust from the Civic Center parking lot entrance to 9th; and 9th from Locust to Walnut. - Downtown Evansville Improvement District holiday decorations on the archway at 2nd and Main, closing the 200 block of Main Street on Monday, November 2, from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. - YMCA of Southwestern Indiana Glenwood Neighborhood Festival on Saturday, October 24, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., closing South Governor between Ridgway and Sweetser Avenue and Sweetser Avenue between South Governor and the alley behind Caldwell Park. - SBBI Enterprise Incorporated, TBJ’s Brands Concessions, Mobile Church, and BEO Ministry and Mission community harvest festival (Trunks of Treats of Blessing) on Friday, October 30, from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., closing South Governor from Bellmead Avenue to East Chandler. Bid Opening - The board opened bids for the 2026 Mill and Overlay Phase Four project (Project 26-018). Bids received were from J.H. Rudolph & Co. Inc. at $721,070.05 and E&B Paving LLC at $643,645.32. A motion to take the bids under advisement passed. Key Outcomes - All new business items were approved unanimously by voice vote. - Bids for Project 26-018 were taken under advisement. - The board approved bills and payroll. - The board adjourned after no additional public business was brought forward.

The Board of Public Safety held its 19th scheduled meeting of 2026 on October 14, 2026 at 1:03 p.m. The meeting included public comment, ratification of dumpster permits, departmental reports from police, fire, building commission, and city engineering, approval of special event permits, and consent for multiple road closures. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Dumpster Permits: Approved by email ratification for 3359 W Franklin St (Sarah Brydon), 736 E Delaware (Drew Render), and 636 E Gum St (Bair Scott). Public Comments & Testimony - Carl Arnheiter (Arcademy, 22 NW 6th St) requested that neighboring businesses receive advance notification when streets are closed for events or construction. He stated that in five years his business had never been notified. He cited recent closures by Tiki on Main, CRG Properties, and Ford Center. Board members acknowledged that applications require notification of affected businesses and residents, admitted enforcement had been lacking, and committed to reminding applicants and considering fines for noncompliance. Discussion Items Police Department – Vehicle Surplus - Captain John McQuay requested surplus of three EPD vehicles: 7-5 (end of life), 11-12 (end of life), 13-10 (damaged). Approved. Fire Department – Donation, Surplus, Change Orders - Accepted a $100 donation from Ethel Kissel. - Approved surplus of five Stihl saws, a breathing air compressor, a battery forklift, a fork truck battery charger, and an ambulance (used as rehab truck). - Approved change orders for Station 5 and Station 9 to add washer/dryer units as part of ongoing renovations. Each change order was under 20% of the original bid (approx. 16% and 10%). An extension to October 31 was included. Building Commission – Demolition Contracts (Kim Josey absent) - Awarded contracts for five fire-damaged houses to low bidders: 1. 2508 W Franklin St – Stemaly Excavating ($8,153) 2. 1208 Judson St – Velpen ($8,650) 3. 3000 W Michigan St – Stemaly Excavating ($11,973) 4. 750 E Virginia St – Stemaly Excavating ($10,898) 5. 2605 W Virginia St – Velpen ($8,600) City Engineering – Traffic and Parking (Jennifer Blankenship) - Canal Street Parking: Approved allowing parking on the roadway shoulder (south side) of Canal Street between Grand Avenue and Bedford Avenue, and no parking on the grass island adjacent to Canal between Denby Avenue and Bedford Avenue. Four no-parking signs will be installed. - Handicap Parking: Approved seven new handicap parking spaces: 203 NW 5th St (two spots on Vine St), 107 E Missouri St, 515 Lewis Ave, 609 Covert Ave, 624 Reis Ave, 1103 W Illinois St, and 1700 Gum St. Special Event Permits (read by Curtis, Sgt. Winsett absent) - Community Harvest Festival (Mobile Church, BEO Ministry, SBBI, TBJ’s): Closure of S Governor St from Bellemeade Ave to E Chandler Ave on Friday, Oct 30, 2–7 p.m. Approved. - Glenwood Neighborhood Festival (YMCA): Closure of S Governor between Ridgeway and Sweetser Ave and Sweetser Ave to alley on Saturday, Oct 24, 3–6 p.m. Approved. - Signature School Main Street Attraction: Originally approved Oct 2 but canceled due to false police swatting. Re-approved for Friday, Oct 16, 2–10:30 p.m., closing Main St from 6th St to MLK Jr Blvd. Approved. Consent – Road Closures (all approved individually) - 9th St between Walnut and Sycamore (Oct 17, 7a-11p) for Evansville Holistic Expo/Hot Tub Show. - Multiple street closures/lane restrictions (Nov 10, 6a-2p) for Thunderbolts Education Day (EPD). - 200 block Main St (Nov 2, 6a-5p) for holiday decorations. - 400 block Main St (Oct 16–Nov 6, intermittent 3–5 days) for concrete pumping for park construction. - Lane restriction at Old National Bank loading dock (Oct 16, 5a-7:30a) for concrete truck. - Cherry St between 2nd and 3rd (Oct 19–23) for asphalt patching and sidewalk replacement. - S Governor St between Riverside Dr and Ridgeway Ave (Oct 19–27) for full depth pavement removal. Other Items - YMCA dumpster permit at 222 NW 6th St (Oct 14–28) for building cleanup prior to sale. Approved. - Two handicap parking sign removals: 112 W Iowa St and 20 W Louisiana St (requested by new homeowners). Approved. - Claims and minutes from September 23, 2026 approved. - Board discussed a possible sinkhole near Haney’s corner; City Engineering will investigate. Key Outcomes All motions carried unanimously. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, October 28, 2026 at 1:00 p.m.

The Evansville Vanderburgh County Building Commission convened on October 14, 2026, at 12:58 PM, with Hearing Officer Joe Harrison presiding. The commission addressed five property cases involving repair orders, raze orders, and continuances under Indiana Code 36-7-9. All cases were continued to the next hearing on December 9, 2026, at 1:00 PM, with two orders formally affirmed. No minutes were available; this summary is based on the raw transcript. Public Comments & Testimony - Darlene Lancaster (neighbor of 4612 Detroy Road) expressed strong frustration, stating she has lived next door for 39 years and has been trying to get the property addressed for nearly seven years. She noted the property has no water or electricity, was sold at tax sale and not redeemed, and that the current title holders are family members, including minors. She also reported that people were removing items from the property that they do not own and that she was advised to call the sheriff if they returned. She opposed further extensions. Discussion Items 4612 Detroy Road – Repair House (Routine Case) - The property is vacant and secure; yards are acceptable. It has been inspected five times with no progress, no permits, and no owner contact. - Attorney Mr. Goodridge appeared on behalf of owners, explaining that multiple fractional owners are being consolidated into one owner to enable progress. Inspector Knox recommended a repair order. - The county requested permission for an interior inspection; Mr. Goodridge agreed, expecting title consolidation within two weeks. - Neighbor Darlene Lancaster voiced concerns and disputed ownership status. Hearing Officer Harrison continued the matter to December 9, 2026, and ordered an interior inspection within 30 days (preferably 10 days). 3925 Kansas Road – Raze Barn (Evidentiary Case) - This case involved an order to raze a barn. Owners Michael V. and Danielle D. Kibbe were not present; attorney Nathan Dewan represented Fifth Third Bank, the mortgage holder. - Inspector Kenneth Knox testified to inspecting the property four times, first in August 2025. He observed severe roof damage and recommended razing the barn. - Mr. Dewan had no objection to the raze order but requested time to confirm which parcel the barn sits on and to potentially arrange demolition by the bank. The matter was continued to December 9, 2026, to allow for parcel verification and communication. 4307 Brom Road – Repair House (Evidentiary Case) - Owner John F. Arnold appeared. Inspector Knox reported five inspections, noting roof and porch railing damage. The county recommended repair. - Mr. Arnold stated his intention to tear down the house and barn himself. He planned to salvage wood from the barn (built by him and his father 65 years ago). - The hearing officer advised him to prioritize the barn (which is the subject of the next case) and suggested he could patch the roof or remove railings in the meantime. The repair order was not affirmed; the matter was continued to December 9, 2026, with encouragement to make progress and stay in contact with the inspector. 4333 Brom Road – Raze Barn (Evidentiary Case) - This was a separate order to raze a collapsed barn on a neighboring parcel. Inspector Knox testified the barn is fallen due to wind damage and recommended affirming the raze order. - Exhibits were admitted, including violation lists, photos, raze order, title search, and service affidavits. Hearing Officer Harrison affirmed the raze order, finding the structure unsafe, a fire hazard, a public nuisance, and blighted. Mr. Arnold indicated he would tear it down himself. The matter was continued to December 9, 2026, for verification of progress. 3056 Grove Street – Repair House (Continued Evidentiary Case) - Owner Carlos Amaya appeared. Inspector Knox had inspected the property eight times since September 2025, documenting siding damage, missing gutters, roof damage, open windows, and lack of insect screens. No improvements had been made. - Mr. Amaya stated he had not received prior notices due to an incorrect address. He now committed to beginning exterior repairs within a week and planned to lease the property after repairs. - Hearing Officer Harrison affirmed the repair order and continued the case to December 9, 2026, at 1:00 PM, with the county to notify Mr. Amaya if his presence is not needed. Key Outcomes - 4612 Detroy Road: Continued to December 9, 2026, with a required interior inspection within 30 days (10 days preferred). - 3925 Kansas Road: Continued to December 9, 2026, to confirm parcel and allow mortgage holder to coordinate demolition. - 4307 Brom Road: Continued to December 9, 2026, without affirming the repair order; owner plans to demolish the house. - 4333 Brom Road: Raze order affirmed; owner to demolish the barn, with a follow-up on December 9, 2026. - 3056 Grove Street: Repair order affirmed; owner to begin repairs; case continued to December 9, 2026, at 1:00 PM.

The Historic Preservation Commission met on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at 11:29 AM. Four members were present (Guy Crouch, Pam Guthrie, Philip R. Hooper, Michael Dixon), constituting a quorum. The meeting was chaired by Chairman Derrick W. McDowell (absent). The commission approved two certificate of appropriateness applications, discussed a commissioner seat revision, and received updates on staff-level approvals and the demolition-by-neglect ordinance. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes – The minutes from July 8, 2026, were moved and seconded, and approved unanimously by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - 26-HPCOA-06 – 406 SE First Street – Kidney Miller (environmental cleaning solutions) and owner Rick Flatter presented plans to abate vermiculite insulation, replace siding (with C-grade upgrade), repair rotted window sills and trim, install new storm windows, and repaint in existing colors. Historic Preservation Officer Timothy Miller confirmed the work was needed and appropriate. The commission approved the application by a unanimous voice vote. - 26-HPCOA-07 – 809 SE Riverside Drive – The owner (name not stated) requested approval to replace a deteriorating slate roof with Owens Corning Supreme Onyx Black three-tab asphalt shingles, citing cost and urgent water damage. The property was under a stop-work order for unapproved window work, but legal counsel Dirk Stahl clarified the roof was a separate, appropriate matter. Despite concerns from one commissioner, the motion to approve was made, seconded, and passed with four aye votes (the commissioner who wished to abstain was instructed it would break quorum). Discussion Items - Staff Level Approval Update – Timothy Miller reported numerous completed or ongoing staff-level approvals, including roof replacements, porch repairs, repointing, gutter liners, and a new shed. Notable: the historic Hallman building has sold (cash purchase) with plans to renovate the garage first, then convert the main building into a hotel (or possibly housing). - Commissioner Seat Revision Discussion – Following the addition of a new historic district (Bayard Park), the commission debated how to maintain representation. The current ordinance requires at least one member from Lincolnshire Historic District. The proposal was to keep the commission at seven members (five from Riverside, two from any “first phase” district, e.g., Lincolnshire, Bayard Park, or future districts) without requiring an eighth member. A motion to recommend an ordinance revision to city council with that language passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Application 26-HPCOA-06 (406 SE First Street) – Approved unanimously. - Application 26-HPCOA-07 (809 SE Riverside Drive) – Approved with 4 ayes (the sole abstention was not permitted). - Commissioner Seat Revision – Motion passed to recommend keeping the commission at seven members with two seats reserved for first-phase districts. The ordinance revision will be prepared for city council. - Demolition by Neglect Ordinance Update – Dirk Stahl reported that the city attorney (Sarah Dower) has other priorities, but commissioners expressed strong support for moving forward, citing deteriorating properties. The new neighborhood inspector Ann Skete (812-435-8636) was introduced. Further discussion is planned for the next meeting.

The Evansville Police Department Pension Board held its regular monthly meeting on October 14, 2026, at 8:23 AM in Room 307 of the Civic Center Complex. The board approved one new applicant, reviewed financial reports, and addressed old business regarding a disability appeal. The meeting adjourned at 8:27 AM. Consent Calendar - Approved Applicant 26-121 (motion to accept, seconded, all in favor). - Approved the minutes from the September 2, 2026 meeting (motion to approve, seconded, all in favor). Financial Report - 1925 Fund payroll for September 15 and September 30, 2026: $240,017.12 each. Old Business - Received notification from INPRS Medical Authority regarding Sam Taylor's appeal. The disability class remains Class 1, the degree increased from 64% to 69%, qualifying Samuel Taylor for catastrophic disability benefits. Total benefit pay is 100% retroactive to June 11, 2026. Attorney Aaron Bauer handled the appeal pro bono. Retirements/Resignations - Officer Evan R. Lake (Badge 1644) resigned effective October 17, 2026, after serving 9 months and 5 days. Good of the Board - Next regular meeting scheduled for Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at 8:15 AM in Room 307 of the Civic Center Plaza. Key Outcomes - Applicant 26-121 accepted by unanimous vote. - Minutes of September 2, 2026 approved unanimously. - Sam Taylor's disability benefit increased to 100% retroactive to June 11, 2026.

The Vanderburgh County Board of Commissioners and the Drainage Board met on October 13, 2026. The agenda listed a 9:30 A.M. start; the provided meeting timestamp was 2026-10-13T15:30:00+00:00. Commissioners Justin Elpers (President, District 2), Amy Canterbury (Vice President, District 3), and Mike Goebel (District 1; rendered as 'Gable' in the raw transcript) were present. No separate minutes were provided. All votes were unanimous (3-0) unless otherwise noted. Consent Calendar - Approved the September 29, 2026, Board of Commissioners meeting minutes. - Approved employment changes. - Approved Auditor claims voucher reports for Sept 28-Oct 2, 2026, and Oct 5-Oct 9, 2026. - Approved the Clerk’s September 2026 monthly report. - Approved the Engineer’s report and claims. - Approved the Treasurer’s August 2026 Innkeeper’s Tax report and September 2026 monthly report. - Approved quit claim deeds transferring county-owned properties to the Evansville Land Bank Corp. - Approved the Evansville Land Bank Corp. 2026 Tax Sale no-sales property selection. Public Comments & Testimony - A representative of the Old Farm development, Chip, testified in support of the requested sidewalk/trail width waiver. He stated the request was not about saving money and argued a 6.5-foot trail would allow about four feet of green space between the trail and curb, improving safety and appearance; he said an 8-foot trail would leave little or no buffer and could result in paving directly to the back of the curb. - County Engineer John said the county has no written trail-width standard, but INDOT/Federal Highway guidance identifies 8 feet as the recommended minimum, and separation from the roadway is safer. He noted the county generally follows state guidelines when no local standard exists. - No public comments were made during the formal public comment period. Discussion Items - Sidewalk Waiver - Old Farm Subdivision: Area Plan Commission staff recommended approval of the waiver only with a condition to build the trail at a minimum of 8 feet. The developer requested 6.5 feet. Commissioner Goebel said he was torn and concerned about setting a precedent, but the Board voted 3-0 to waive the condition and allow the 6.5-foot walking trail/bike path. - Street Plan Approval - Old Farm Subdivision: Approved the internal street plan unanimously. - Eagle Point Subdivision Street Improvements: Accepted completed streets totaling approximately 0.2 miles, three short streets off Volkman Road east of Highway 41. - Change Order 1 - Milling and Resurfacing of County Roads: Approved a net increase of $60,139.74 for additional asphalt leveling, increased asphalt quantities for proper crowns/drainage, and reduced patching. - Change Order 3 - Oak Hill Road Reconstruction: Approved an $8,292.50 increase to remove a large tree near the new sanitary sewer installation and avoid future fall damage. - Temporary Speed Limit Reduction - Clover Drive: Approved continuing the 15 mph temporary speed limit on Clover Drive between Elmridge Drive and Bergdolt Road for an additional 30 days. - Bids - Demolition at 4612 Detroy Road (listed as 'Detroit' in transcript): Two bids were opened: Stemley Excavating, $5,006, and Hydehorn Excavating, $4,090. The bids were taken under advisement; no award was made. - Professional Services Agreement: Approved the agreement with Bartlett & Associates, Inc. for appraisal services at the old County Coroner’s Office. - Workers’ Compensation Claim Settlement: Approved a settlement for an injured employee, reviewed by the workers’ compensation attorney and third-party administrator Davies. - Animal Holding Period Ordinance (CO.10-26-016): Missy, Director of Evansville Animal Care and Control, explained the change aligns county animal holding periods with the city’s four-day stray hold to free kennel space and encourage faster owner pickup. The Board voted 3-0 to waive the second reading and approved the ordinance on first and final reading after no public objections. - Veterans Services Quarterly Report: Tanya Weber, VSO, reported 33 out-of-county claims, 16 out-of-state claims from Kentucky, and 2 from Illinois; Vanderburgh County saw nearly $13 million in claims increases. She noted 61% of county veterans are Vietnam veterans. She highlighted The Wall That Heals at USI (opening Oct 29, closing ceremony Nov 1 at 1:45 p.m.) and Veterans Day ceremonies at Oak Hill (11 a.m.) and Locust Hill (10 a.m.) on Nov 11. - Announcement: Commissioners promoted the Veterans Coliseum Gala on October 24. Drainage Board - Approved minutes from the prior drainage board meeting. - Approved Morley’s application to affect Nurnburn Ditch at 1919 Enterprise Park Drive for a driveway and garage within the right-of-entry; the county surveyor’s office concurred. - Approved the amended final drainage plan for Old Farm (presented by Cash Wagner), originally approved May 12, 2026, adding an apartment complex on Lot 172 and changes to swales, basins, and storm sewers. The county surveyor and engineer reviewed the plan. A separate variance request for the project was received after the agenda was set and will be presented at the next meeting. - Approved 11 ditch maintenance claims totaling $22,045.29 since the Sept 29, 2026 meeting, as requested for retroactive approval; all claims were for contracted work completed in 2026. - Informational updates: Pigeon Creek Watershed Development Commission meeting on Oct 26 at 10 a.m., with a public input session at 11 a.m.; a new Pigeon Creek stream gauge installed with USGS/EPA/IDEM cooperation, the first since a gauge was decommissioned in July 1987; no response yet from the lawyer or Mr. Murphy regarding the Ivy Meadows storm sewer repairs; and the Daniel Haas obstruction hearing notice mailed Oct 5, with a hearing scheduled for the Oct 26/27, 2026 drainage board meeting. Key Outcomes - Sidewalk/trail width waiver approved for Old Farm (6.5 feet instead of 8 feet) unanimously. - Old Farm street plan, Eagle Point street acceptance, two county road construction change orders, and the Clover Drive speed limit extension all approved unanimously. - Demolition bids received and taken under advisement. - Professional services agreement, workers’ compensation settlement, and the four-day animal holding ordinance approved. - Consent agenda approved unanimously. - Drainage Board approved the Nurnburn Ditch encroachment, Old Farm amended drainage plan, and $22,045.29 in ditch claims. - No public comments received during the formal public comment period.

The Evansville Design Review Committees met on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. in Room 307 of the Civic Center Complex. The Downtown and Jacobsville Redevelopment Area Committees had no agenda items. The Art District Committee considered two items: a new-construction application at Adams Avenue and a stop-work appeal for 1 E. Powell (Piazza Di Oro). The first item was tabled because no applicant representative appeared; the second was tabled pending corrected documents and field verification. Adams Avenue New Construction (Tabled) - The agenda listed the project at 65-67 Adams Avenue, while the transcript referenced 5961 Adams Avenue. No representative appeared for applicant Corey Hirsch, so the committee tabled the application. 1 E. Powell Stop Work Appeal – Piazza Di Oro - Mandy, representing Bobby Andrews, said she had made an effort to address the committee’s concerns and hoped the revised submission would allow the project to move forward. - Committee members acknowledged the four-inch window trim as a positive step but said the submitted renderings and elevations were inaccurate, appeared AI-generated, and did not match the existing structure or prior submissions. - One committee member cited a nearby 1881 house with windows approximately 30 inches wide and 85 inches tall as an example of historic proportions, but stressed it was not a measurement of this property. The proposed 30-by-60 window was described as too short and not consistent with the committee’s request to match the original opening sizes. - The committee discussed window grid patterns: a 4-over-4 simulated muntin pattern for the large windows, with a 2-over-2 pattern for the smaller kitchen window. The transom above the door, previously raised by Darren, was discussed but was not considered a deal-breaker. - Committee member Wyatt offered to field-verify the window openings and monitor ongoing compliance. Key Outcomes - The Adams Avenue application was tabled due to the applicant’s absence. - The Piazza Di Oro stop-work appeal was tabled, allowing work to continue only after updated documents are submitted and reviewed. - By the end of the day, the applicant was required to submit corrected renderings and elevations showing accurate window size, placement, number, and measurements. If the documents arrived later, the committee said it would review them by email as soon as possible. - The approved conditions included: windows replaced at original opening sizes rather than 30-by-60; 4-over-4 grid on large windows and 2-over-2 on the smaller kitchen window; black windows; porch columns with collars and spindle arches as shown in the agreed rendering; burgundy-red door; black-painted fascia; and four-inch window trim. - Wyatt was allowed to field-verify the window opening sizes and continued compliance; the committee stated another stop-work order could be issued if the agreed terms were not followed. - The committee indicated that after design review approval, the applicant would need to address permit reinstatement with the building commission before resuming work.

The Evansville Fire American Commission met on October 13, 2026, beginning at 4:01 p.m. Commissioners Lehman, Ferguson, Vick, Fetcher, and Jackson were all present, establishing a quorum. No agenda or minutes were available; this summary is based solely on the meeting transcript. Consent Calendar - Regular meeting minutes from September 8, 2026: Approved 5-0. - Special meeting minutes from October 2, 2026: Approved 5-0. - Written findings and conclusions from the October 2, 2026 discipline hearing: Approved 5-0. - Claim from Award World: Approved 5-0 to pay $15 for Commissioner Lehman's nameplate. Discussion Items - Chief's report: Chief Garrett reported that recruit academy classes 68-26 and 69-26 completed all training and are now assigned to stations, adding 16 new firefighters. There were no probationary firefighter updates, no promotion probationary periods ending, and no new promotions. One firefighter received a written reprimand for violating Policy 302, the short-term sick leave policy. - Commendation: A commissioner commended EMS and fire service personnel for their work at the fall festival. Chief Garrett responded that it was a fun event and thanked the commissioner for the appreciation. Key Outcomes - Motion to approve the regular minutes passed 5-0. - Motion to approve the special minutes passed 5-0. - Motion to approve written findings from the discipline hearing passed 5-0. - Motion to pay Award World $15 passed 5-0. - No unfinished business, new business, or union report was presented. - A motion to adjourn was made, seconded, and approved.