Public Meetings - Evansville, Indiana

The Area Plan Commission of Evansville and Vanderburgh County met on October 1, 2026 at 2:40 PM in the Civic Center Complex. The meeting was called to order after roll call, and the September memorandum was approved unanimously. The commission heard four city rezoning petitions, one county rezoning petition, one subdivision plat, and one sidewalk waiver request. All items except one rezoning (which was continued) were recommended for approval to the appropriate governing body. City Rezonings Docket REZ-2026-003 (2713 Jeanette Avenue) – R1 to M2 with UDC - Petitioner: Estate of Ronald Lee Strahl, represented by Joshua Claiborne and Sean Straw. - Request to rezone from R1 to M2 for an auto repair shop, storage yard, and related uses. The property had a legal nonconforming status from a 1983 court order, but staff determined that status was nullified when a new pole barn replaced a burned structure. Neighbors have complained for decades. - During discussion, commissioners noted that salvage yard uses require a Special Use 9 permit, which was not included in the UDC. Petitioners stated they intend to clean up the site and would seek the special use if needed. - Vote: Motion to approve passed 6-1 (Commissioner Nix opposed). Recommendation to City Council. Docket REZ-2026-028 (3524 Kratzville Road) – M1 to R2 - Petitioner: Happy Storage LLC, represented by Krista Lock. - Request to rezone from M1 to R2 to remove legal nonconforming status on a single-family residence. - Staff noted consistency with comprehensive plan. - Vote: Approved unanimously (7-0). Recommendation to City Council. Docket REZ-2026-029 (5100 East Morgan Avenue) – C2 to M1 with UDC - Petitioner: Ton Properties, represented by Matt Layman. - Request to rezone former Applebee’s for auto sales, repair, and detail. UDC limited uses but petitioner also wanted to include engine overhaul and painting (Use Group 14), which were omitted from the filed UDC. - Discussion: Commissioner noted that the UDC would need to be amended to include Use Group 14. The commission voted to waive the amendment fee and continue the petition to the next meeting for refiling. - Vote: Motion to waive fees and continue passed 7-0. Docket REZ-2026-030 (1500 North Heidelbach Avenue) – M2 to R5 with UDC - Petitioner: Oolite Management Services LLC, represented by Dylan Murphy and Tom Garvey. - Request to rezone a brownfield site for a 63-unit affordable workforce housing development (up to four stories). UDC prohibits various incompatible uses. Staff noted consistency with comprehensive plan. - Commissioner questions about parking were answered; no variances needed. - Vote: Approved unanimously (7-0). Recommendation to City Council. County Rezonings Docket REZ-2026-027 (18601 North US Highway 41) – M2 w/UDC to M2 w/amended UDC - Petitioner: SIGECO/Center Point Energy, represented by Storm Kolek. - Request to amend UDC to add indoor storage for equipment and materials for utility projects, including off-site. The property currently has a solar field. - Staff found consistency with comprehensive plan. - Vote: Approved unanimously (7-0). Recommendation to County Commissioners. Subdivisions Docket MAJ-2026-009 Poet Square Section 5 (Replat) - Location: 15400 Reading Drive. Proposal to subdivide one large lot into five lots for a 42-unit apartment building and four duplexes (8 units), bringing total to maximum 210 units allowed by prior UDC. - Public comment: Joseph Fisher, a resident, expressed concerns about parking and traffic with only one access point. Petitioner Jim Morley (joining late) explained parking exceeds code and duplexes have garages. - Staff condition: Update drainage maintenance notes subject to county engineer approval. - Vote: Approved unanimously (7-0). Sidewalk Waiver Docket WAV-2026-004 Old Farm - Petitioner: Parkway Improvements LLC, represented by Scott Beadle and Ryan Lewis. - Request for partial sidewalk waiver on University Parkway, Roesner Road, and north side of Road 1. Petitioner proposed a 6.5-foot wide shared-use path on south side of Road 1 instead of standard sidewalks. County engineer and MPO recommended 8-10 feet. - Discussion: Commissioners favored an 8-foot minimum for safety. Petitioner argued 6.5 feet is adequate and common in other areas. Motion: Approve the waivers requested but require the trail on south side of Road 1 to be 8 feet wide. - Vote: Motion passed 7-0 (Commissioner Pedtke voted yes on the waiver despite not favoring 8 feet). Key Outcomes - All seven voting items (four city rezoning recommendations, one county rezoning recommendation, one subdivision plat, and one sidewalk waiver) were approved or continued as noted. - Docket REZ-2026-029 was continued to the next meeting with waiver of amendment fees. - The next regularly scheduled meeting will be Thursday, November 5, 2026 at 3:00 PM in the Civic Center Complex.

The Evansville Board of Public Works met on October 1, 2026, at 19:30 UTC and approved all items on the agenda by unanimous voice vote. The board took action on cemetery paving, Affordable Housing Trust Fund home repair agreements, an EVSC literacy grant, a dental plan administrative renewal, EPA soil-testing authorization, a storm sewer change order, right-of-way permits, event road closures, bills, and payroll. No public comments were made during the public business portion. Old Business - Approved the September 24, 2026, Board of Public Works meeting minutes. - Approved awarding the Oak Hill Cemetery paving bid to E of B Paving (also transcribed as 'EMB Paving') in the amount of $70,001.66. Robin Morris, Deputy Director of Transportation and Services (initially addressed as Robert Morris), said all bids had been reviewed. The bid was opened and taken under advisement at the September 24, 2026, board meeting. New Business - Affordable Housing Trust Fund repair – 1075 South Spring Street: Approved an agreement with ACE Construction Incorporated for an AHTF home repair, including new gutters and an HVAC system, funded under AHTF 2026-103, at a cost of $14,340. - Affordable Housing Trust Fund repair – 736 East Gum Street: Approved an agreement with Titan Electrical and Construction LLC to remove and replace all windows and storm windows and to replace the front door and front storm door, funded under AHTF 2026-102, at a cost of $12,700. - Affordable Housing Trust Fund repair – 1401 MacArthur Drive: Approved an agreement with ACE Construction Incorporated for a new exterior HVAC combo system, repairs to siding, soffit and fascia, and troubleshooting a leak around the front window. Funds were from AHTF 2026-104; the amount was not to exceed $11,205, including an extra $75 so the contractor could locate and repair the leak. - EVSC Corporation Foundation literacy grant: Approved an agreement for a 2026 Forward Together GO grant to implement a coordinated literacy strategy grounded in SOR and FACE after-school and summer programs. Finance order F-2026-10; cost $15,000. Holly Trevino, when asked what SOR and FACE stand for, said the program had not been spelled out. - Dental plan administrative renewal: Approved the Health Resources Incorporated Administrative Service Plan Renewal Agreement, decreasing the administrative fee on the City of Evansville dental plan from $4.25 to $3.75 for 2027 and 2028. Lisa Lindbergh said signing a two-year contract would lock in the decreased premiums. - EPA soil contamination testing: Approved City Engineering's request to use EPA materials to circulate to applicable property owners for consent to soil contamination testing. Brian Mundy said the EPA had requested sampling on a city-owned property and that the testing was for arsenic and lead. - First Avenue Storm Sewer Replacement change order: Approved Change Order No. 4 with Blakenberger Brothers Incorporated on Project 25-008, a decrease of $20,547.90. Brian Mundy said the project was complete and this was the final change order to close it out. The new total contract amount was stated as $304,000, $532.52 (i.e., $304,532.52). - Right-of-way permits: Approved Appendix A right-of-way permit applications 3219 through 3233 with no exceptions, subject to Indiana MUTCD-compliant maintenance of traffic procedures, possible Board of Public Safety approval before any lane restriction or street closure, and adherence to city engineering utility repair detail requirements for open pavement cuts. - Event road closures and barricades: Approved the following events already approved by the Board of Public Safety: - University of Evansville Ace Care Fund 5K 2026 on Sunday, October 24, 2026, from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., closing Walnut between Rotherwood and Weinbach and closing Olive Street and Rotherwood; barricades requested. - University of Evansville Homecoming 2026 on November 7, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., closing Walnut Street from Rotherwood to Weinbach on both sides of the road; barricades requested. Key Outcomes - All motions passed by unanimous voice vote. - The board approved bills and payroll and then approved a motion to adjourn. - No public comments were offered.

The Evansville Tree Advisory Board met on October 1, 2026, at 9:06 AM. The board reviewed multiple requests to remove park and street trees, discussed a new framework for resolving tree and sidewalk conflicts, and approved several tree removals with replacement commitments. Upcoming community planting events and educational opportunities were also announced. Discussion Items - Park Tree Removals: The board considered removal requests for dead, dying, or structurally weak trees at Tepe Park (3 trees), Caldwell Park, Diamond Valley Park, Helfrich Golf Course, Pagoda, and West Branch Library Park (4 trees). At Helfrich Golf Course, approximately 20 trees of size will be cleared to access a power transformer. The board discussed replacement strategies, deciding on a canopy-for-canopy approach at Helfrich (rather than tree-for-tree) and the standard two-for-one replacement for the other parks. A motion to approve the removals with the canopy replacement caveat passed unanimously. - Street Tree Removals: Requests included a dead tree at 5 E. Powell, a dying ornamental cherry and maple at Alvord & Bellemeade, a dying oak at 1116 Madison, a dying oak at 1037 Ravenswood, and a structurally weak Tree of Heaven at 600 Taylor (Garvin Street side). For the Alvord & Bellemeade trees, one-for-one replacement was approved (boulevard constraints). The Tree of Heaven stump will be treated to prevent regrowth. The motion, including tree-for-tree replacement on Ravenswood and stump treatment, passed unanimously. - Tree & Sidewalk Conflicts: Aaron presented a new decision-making tool developed with the city engineer to objectively evaluate trees causing sidewalk conflicts. The tool uses a scoring system and will be piloted on three trees along Lincoln Avenue between Garvin and Governor. The board discussed the larger oak tree (growing over the curb) and two smaller trees. A motion passed to remove the large oak, trim roots of the other two, and allow sidewalk repair. A second motion approved a two-for-one tree replacement in the green space between Garvin and Governor, also passed. - IU Environmental Resilience Institute Cohort Program: An update was given that Bia is finalizing a proposal for the urban forestry management plan update. The city is receiving 10 free trees, to be planted on October 24 at 9 AM in partnership with the Tepe Park Neighborhood Association. - Invasive Plant, Pest & Disease Update: The Twilight Tours at Oak Hill Cemetery (October 24, 5 PM, $15/person) will fund emerald ash borer treatments for city ash trees. The event includes historical reenactments. - Ongoing Removal/Planting: Recent planting of native arborvitae at Wesselman Park (donated by Colonial Classics) was noted. Upcoming plantings: November 7 at Locust Hill Cemetery (Cratzville Road, 9 AM) and November 14 at Howell Park (close to 100 trees, 9 AM). Key Outcomes - Approved park tree removals with canopy replacement at Helfrich Golf Course and two-for-one replacement at other parks (unanimous). - Approved street tree removals with one-for-one replacement on Alvord & Bellemeade and stump treatment for the Tree of Heaven (unanimous). - Approved removal of the large oak on Lincoln Avenue, root trimming for two other trees, and a two-for-one replacement in the green space (both motions unanimous). - The board adopted the new tree/sidewalk conflict framework as a pilot, with Aaron to distribute a one-page workflow summary. - Upcoming events: Weed Wrangle at Hartman Arboretum (October 8, 9 AM), Weed Wrangle at Northwoods, Igleheart Park (October 17, 9 AM), Twilight Tours (October 24, 5 PM), Tree Pruner's Licensing Seminar (November 10, 6 PM at Wesselman Woods), and tree plantings on November 7 and 14.

The Electrical Board met on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at 3:29 p.m. Board members present were Don Beavin, Roger Clark, Randy Dierlam, Jacob Gurtz, Ben Ipock, Cody Matsel, Ray Pritchett, Pete Rembert, and James Stidham. Also present were Building Commissioner Johnny McAlister, Electrical Inspector Jimmie Heavrin, Deputy Building Commissioner Marc Weaver, and Compliance Officer Bob Sheller. No minutes were available, so the board did not read or approve minutes. Consent Calendar - The board approved all apprentice license applications on the list, approximately 60 applicants, by unanimous voice vote. All had been pre-approved by the IEC. The board briefly clarified that applicant Tatum Fame was a second-year apprentice and discussed applicant Samuel Denny's enrollment before approving him. Two late additions, Luke Carroll and Alexander Wilson, were also approved. - The board approved all 27 journeyman license applications listed on the agenda by unanimous voice vote. - No master applications or continuing education applications were submitted. Discussion Items - Old News: Johnny McAlister reported that he submitted ordinance changes aligning City and County language for the "four years or 6200 hours in the trade" requirement. The change still needs approval from the License and Disciplinary Board before it can take effect. McAlister also reported that applicant Elvis E. Jaramillo, who had been denied for not having enough hours or years in the trade, spoke to the board. The board was satisfied with the information he provided and approved him to take the Master exam. - New News: Bob Sheller was introduced as the new compliance officer, starting earlier that week. He will look for unlicensed work, missing permits, and other matters not compliant with the building commission. McAlister indicated that public reports can be phoned into the building commission and assigned to the compliance officer, and inspectors will also refer issues to him. - New News: Deputy Building Commissioner Marc Weaver was introduced. He described his engineering and finance background and said he plans to review plans in more detail and place more responsibility on designers to provide complete drawings. He cited a University of Evansville canopy plan that was returned because the foundation was only shown as a rectangle. - ABC applications: Asked about approximately 12 apprentice applications from the ABC from the previous month, McAlister said he had not received anything further, so the applications remain on hold. The board noted questions about whether the ABC's accreditation was still compliant. Key Outcomes - All apprentice and journeyman license applications were approved unanimously. - Elvis E. Jaramillo was approved to take the Master exam. - The ordinance change on the four-years-or-6,200-hours requirement will go to the License and Disciplinary Board for approval. - The ABC apprentice applications remain tabled until more information is received. - The next board meeting will be held on November 5, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. in the same room. A motion to adjourn was made, and the meeting ended.

The Vanderburgh County Data Center Research Committee held its third meeting on September 29, 2026, beginning at 1:02 PM in Meeting Room 301 of the Civic Center Complex. Chair Lloyd Lamberton led the session, which focused on refining the committee's scope, defining data center classifications, and establishing a work methodology. County Commissioner Amy Canterbury attended to clarify the Board of Commissioners' expectations, emphasizing the role of the committee to provide fact-based findings rather than a fully drafted ordinance. Public Comments & Testimony No members of the public spoke during this meeting. The committee discussed establishing a formal public comment process, including a dedicated 15-minute period and an email inbox (datacenterresearch@evansvillegov.com) for written submissions. Discussion Items Clarification of Scope, Deliverables, and Expectations: Commissioner Canterbury advised the committee to focus on identifying community concerns and opportunities, leaving the precise legal language of any ordinance amendment to the Area Plan Commission and county attorneys. The committee agreed its final deliverable would be a set of documented recommendations rather than a fully wordsmithed ordinance. Data Center Tour Logistics: John Diekhoff reported on potential tour sites, including a hyperscale facility in New Albany, Ohio (available for external viewing only) and a smaller operational facility in South Bend. The committee decided that members should email their specific goals and objectives for a site visit to Susan Hardwick, who will compile a formal tour plan with expected outcomes. Data Center Classifications: The committee reviewed a classification chart and debated the merits of defining categories by size versus by impact. A tentative consensus was reached to define the primary target of their recommendations as facilities with a power demand of 100 megawatts or greater (hyperscale), with smaller facilities remaining under existing zoning codes. The committee acknowledged this threshold was a working definition subject to revision. Public Comment Process: Chair Lamberton suggested scheduling public comment earlier in the committee's schedule to allow adequate time for the committee to consider feedback. Others expressed concern about disrupting focus. The committee agreed to adopt a defined 15-minute public comment period and established the email datacenterresearch@evansvillegov.com for ongoing public input. Work Methodology: Jenna Richardt proposed a template-based approach for collecting and organizing research. Committee members will assign themselves to sections based on their area of expertise (e.g., water, noise, public safety, economic development) and review 10-20 existing data center ordinances to populate the template. The committee agreed to this framework. Key Outcomes - Hyperscale Definition: The committee tentatively defined a hyperscale data center as a facility with 100 megawatts of power demand, providing a working threshold for their recommendations. - Research Template: A template will be prepared by Jenna Richardt for members to submit their findings from existing ordinances and impact studies. - Public Engagement: A 15-minute public comment window and an email submission system (datacenterresearch@evansvillegov.com) were established to gather community input. - Site Tour Plan: Susan Hardwick will gather member objectives and coordinate a formal tour plan for a data center site, to be circulated by email. - Timeline: The committee noted the compressed schedule, with approximately four substantive meetings remaining before the deadline. Commissioner Canterbury indicated the Board of Commissioners is open to a brief extension if significant progress is demonstrated.

The Vanderburgh County Board of Commissioners and the Vanderburgh County Drainage Board held a joint session on September 29, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. The Commissioners approved multiple action items including road dedications, storm sewer inspections, speed limit reductions, event agreements, appraisals, and three agreements for a battery energy storage system. The Drainage Board set a hearing date for an obstruction petition, approved a preliminary and final drainage plan for a subdivision, and accepted ditch claims. No public comments were made. Consent Calendar - Approved the September 15, 2026 Board of Commissioners meeting minutes, employment changes, claims vouchers for the periods September 14–18 and September 21–25, 2026, the Clerk’s August 2026 monthly report, appropriation and transfer requests, Engineer’s report and claims, a travel request, a letter of support for the 812 Trail Project (railbanking of an inactive railroad corridor in Warrick and Vanderburgh Counties), and an application for abutting property owner to purchase county-owned property at 1004 Edgar. All consent items were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up or spoke during the public comment period for either the Commissioners or the Drainage Board. Discussion Items - Jeremy Ryan Tighe Memorial Way (Action Item A1): John (Engineer) presented a request to officially name and dedicate a portion of St. Joseph Avenue at Meier Road as “Jeremy Ryan Tighe Memorial Way.” The signs had been installed about five years ago without a formal vote. One sign was damaged, and both needed to be replaced to meet uniform traffic control standards (brown background with white lettering). The traffic superintendent required board acknowledgment to proceed. Commissioners expressed support for an official dedication. Approved unanimously. - 3D Leasing LLC Storm Sewer Inspection (Action Item A2): The County Highway Department could not inspect storm sewers on Berry Drive due to sinkholes. A contractor (3D Leasing LLC) will perform CCTV inspections. Funding comes from road and street contractual funds. Approved unanimously. - Temporary Speed Limit Reduction on Oak Hill Road (Action Item A3): A continuation of the 20 mph speed limit reduction between Lynch Road and Bergdolt Road for an additional 30 days. Approved unanimously. - Annual Update to County Title VI Implementation Plan (Action Item J): The update fulfills INDOT requirements to submit an updated plan by October 1 each year to remain eligible for federal funds. Approved unanimously. - Burdette Park – Agreement with Concept Sound and Light, Inc. (Action Item B1): The agreement provides and operates a movie screen for the Fright Night event on October 24, 2026. The business changed hands but honored the 2024 price. Park Director Zach Watham noted that tickets went on sale August 19 and sold well, especially after a temperature drop. Approved unanimously. - Old Courthouse Event Lease with Kraftwerks, Inc. (Action Item D): Lease for the annual craft show on November 14–15, 2026, using public hallway and unrented room space. Approved unanimously. - Professional Services Agreements for Appraisal of Old County Coroner’s Office (Action Items E and F): Two contracts awarded to Appraisal Consultants, Inc. and Premium Appraisals, LLC. Approved unanimously. - Elliot Battery Storage LLC Agreements (Action Items G, H, I): Three agreements for a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS): Economic Development Agreement, Decommissioning Plan Agreement, and Road Use Agreement. Mike Chobmeyer (on behalf of the county) presented. Commissioner Gable raised a concern about local labor; the Economic Development Agreement now includes a provision for best efforts to use a project labor agreement with local contractors and employees. Chobmeyer confirmed the BZA had approved the project 5–0. All three agreements were approved individually and unanimously. - Drainage Board – Petition to Remove Obstruction: Daniel Haas of 8900 N Green River Road alleged Sam Rhodes placed debris in a ditch between their properties. The county surveyor determined an obstruction exists. A hearing was set for October 27, 2026, with notices to be sent by certified mail. Motion approved unanimously. - Drainage Board – Poet Square Section 5 Drainage Plan: Jim Morley Jr. (project engineer) presented preliminary and final drainage plans for four duplexes on remaining lots. A variance was requested to waive required storage volume for basin two because the basin was not built to public standard. The board approved the plan and variance unanimously. - Drainage Board – Ditch Claims: 10 claims totaling $18,873.27 for contracted work completed in 2026 were approved retroactively. - Drainage Board – Informational Items: Upcoming Pigeon Creek Watershed Development Commission meeting on October 26, 2026, at 10 a.m., with a public input meeting at 11 a.m. for final stakeholder comments on the draft work plan. Ivy Meadows storm sewer repairs: a complaint about a flared end section at 5123 Hadera Drive led to a letter to developer Charles Murphy, as required fees were never paid; the developer is responsible for repairs. Mark Norman obstruction update: findings and order mailed to nine parcel owners; removal deadline is on or before August 25, 2027. Key Outcomes - Jeremy Ryan Tighe Memorial Way: Officially dedicated; traffic department authorized to replace and maintain signs. - 3D Leasing LLC Storm Sewer Inspection: Approved, contractor hired to inspect Berry Drive storm sewers. - Temporary Speed Limit Reduction: Extended 30 days on Oak Hill Road. - Title VI Plan: Annual update approved for INDOT compliance. - Fright Night Agreement: Approved with Concept Sound and Light for October 24, 2026. - Craft Show Lease: Approved for November 14–15, 2026. - Appraisal Services: Two contracts awarded. - Elliot Battery Storage: Three agreements approved, including a local labor provision in the Economic Development Agreement. - Obstruction Hearing: Set for October 27, 2026, for the Haas/Rhodes petition. - Poet Square Section 5: Preliminary and final drainage plan approved with variance. - Ditch Claims: $18,873.27 approved for payment. - Rezoning VC-10-2026: Withdrawn by petitioner. - Rezoning VC-11-2026: First reading approved; forwarded to Area Plan Commission for October 1 meeting.

The Pigeon Creek Watershed Development Commission met on Monday, September 28, 2026, from 10:02 AM to 11:48 AM. Members present included Linda Freeman, Cheryl Muskart, Christy, Karen, and Justin. The meeting focused on a GIS inventory tool demonstration, work plan finalization, new business including aerial flights and debris removal, and a legal review of the commission's authority. Consent Calendar - A motion to approve the consent agenda was made, seconded, and passed unanimously. No specific consent items were read into the record. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public were present to speak. Discussion Items - GIS Inventory Tool Demonstration: Matt Rummel (BERC GIS manager) presented a crowdsourcing app for public reporting of watershed issues. The commission discussed requiring name, email, phone number, and address as mandatory fields; adding photo attachment capability; implementing a screening process where Justin (watershed manager) would review and approve or reject submissions before public posting; adding a status column color-coded by progress (under review, addressed, completed); and exploring CAPTCHA to prevent bot submissions. Members Linda and Cheryl emphasized the need to prevent spam and ensure contact information is collected. The tool will include stationing, lat/long auto-calculation, and a splash screen with rules. The commission also requested inclusion of a legal drains layer and a separate map for projects. - Work Plan Update: Beth (Christopher Burke Engineering) noted that remaining items include presenting the GIS tool and finalizing the work plan. The public stakeholder meeting is set for October 26, 2026. Revisions to the work plan based on email comments (including Christy's comments on bridges and tributaries) will be due back to the commission by October 5, 2026. Public comments from those unable to attend the stakeholder meeting must be submitted by October 21, 2026. The final work plan is expected by the end of December 2026. - Legal Authority and Administrative Rules: Craig (attorney) clarified that the commission has exclusive authority over projects within 75 feet of the top of the channel bank for activities like bank stabilization, tree removal, and sediment removal. He recommended drafting administrative rules to guide applicants and to provide enforcement mechanisms (currently only through lawsuit). Members supported adopting rules, especially given Karen's upcoming retirement in June 2026. - Stream Gauge Update: A new stream gauge was installed on September 8, 2026, and is operational. Data collection will take six months to a year to calculate flow rates. Interest was expressed in adding a gauge in Warrick County, using a similar 205J grant tied to water quality sampling stations. Key Outcomes - Motion to issue RFP for biannual aerial flights: Passed unanimously. The RFP will separate components (flights and ground control) and must adhere to the work plan's goals. - Motion to authorize Justin to approach landowners for permanent ground control points: Passed unanimously. If a landowner refuses, Justin will move to alternate locations. - Motion to approve 2027 board meeting dates as sent: Passed with a caveat that dates may change if the building authority requires. - Motion to issue RFP for debris removal at Stringtown Road Bridge: Passed unanimously. The RFP will be developed in cooperation with the county engineer and will consider the county's responsibility for the bridge right-of-way. - Discussion on on-call woody debris removal contract: No formal motion; staff will explore and report back. - Discussion on purchasing property at Stringtown Road: No formal action; staff will work with the attorney on appraisal and acquisition procedures. - Direction to draft administrative rules: Craig will prepare rules for review at a future meeting, with a goal to have them adopted before Karen's retirement. - CD renewal: Noted as automatically rolled at the same rate; officers were reminded to track maturity dates.

No agenda or minutes were provided for this meeting. The only available transcript consists of a brief, unrelated conversation about cataract surgery, containing no discussion of city business, public comments, or decisions. Therefore, no structured summary can be generated.

The Evansville Common Council met on Monday, September 28, 2026, at 5:34 p.m. with all nine members present. The meeting featured second readings of several ordinances, including a major affordable housing PILOT agreement, alley vacation, and multiple rezoning requests. Public comment focused on opposition to Flock surveillance cameras and data centers, along with neighborhood concerns about a triplex rezoning. A resolution authorizing participant stipends for a resilience hub study was also approved. Consent Calendar - Ordinance G-2026-18 (First Reading): Establishes regulations for data center research and permit deferrals. (Sponsored by Trockman, Green, Allen) - Ordinance G-2026-19 (First Reading): Fixes salaries for appointed officers, employees, and department heads for 2027. - Ordinance F-2026-14 (First Reading): Appropriates funds for city government departments for fiscal year 2027. - Ordinance F-2026-15 (First Reading): Appropriates funds for the Evansville-Vanderburgh Levee Authority District for fiscal year 2027. (Discussion date noted as October 26, 2026 due to longer advertising requirement) - Ordinance F-2026-16 (First Reading): Adopts the 2027 budget for the Port Authority of Evansville. - Ordinance F-2026-17 (First Reading): Fixes salaries for elected officials for 2027. - Ordinance R-2026-22 (First Reading): Rezones 1411 W Maryland St from M3 to R2 (Owner: Tip Top Homes, LLC). - All consent agenda items were adopted unanimously (9-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Larry Samples (St. Paul's United Church of Christ): Reported that his church serves 350 ready-to-eat meals every Wednesday and Saturday to anyone in need, without restrictions, at locations near White Oaks High Rise and the Oz & N family shelter. Expressed appreciation for the opportunity to serve the community. - Tammy Tenbarge (1229 W Maryland St business owner): Expressed frustration with persistent trash, illegal camping, drug use, and lack of sanitation at a privately owned block behind the Salvation Army. Noted that there is no city sewer, water, or electric on that property. Asked the city for help addressing the situation. - Domingo Palmer (Indiana Young Communist League): Read a statement from Isla Lopez opposing data center construction, arguing it would raise energy bills and harm the environment. Also spoke personally against "hostile architecture" (benches designed to deter homeless individuals) in downtown Evansville, calling for removal of such benches and increased funding for shelters, addiction services, and public restrooms. - Nicole Chandler (2711 Claremont Ave): Urged council not to approve funding for Flock or other AI surveillance systems, arguing they do not reduce crime and can lead to racial or socioeconomic targeting. Advocated instead for investment in social safety nets and community programs. - Jessica Reed (1124 SE First St): Opposed renewal of Flock contracts, citing cross-jurisdictional data sharing, a 30-day retention period, and a documented breach where CBP accessed Flock data in violation of Illinois state law. Noted that Evansville paid $142,500 for surveillance contracts in 2026 and $265,000 is proposed for 2027. - Damien Bondi (7508 E Chandler): Stated opposition to mass surveillance and data centers, describing surveillance as a "last gamble of scared people" and urging nuanced solutions to complex community problems. - Melanie McDowell (Nesker Park Dr): Opposed data centers and Flock, expressing concern about loss of freedoms and a perceived shift toward communist or socialist agendas. - Rosalyn Folkerson (203 Alt House Ave): Opposed funding Flock and ClearView AI, arguing they threaten Fourth Amendment protections against unreasonable searches. Advocated for more effective public safety solutions. - Magdalena Hawkins (1806 Glendale Ave): Opposed funding for Flock, ClearView, and similar surveillance tech, stating they violate Fourth Amendment protections. - Erin Johnson (810 Fairlong Ct): Detailed past misuse of surveillance tech by law enforcement, including stalking and biased facial recognition. Argued that $265,000 would be better spent on housing, addiction treatment, food security, and violence interruption programs. - Adam Carey (7699 Meadow Lane, Newburgh): Noted public opposition to ALPR systems and cited a leaked Flock document titled "How to Speak to City Councils" that trains law enforcement to "own the narrative". Urged council to remove funding for Flock, ALPRs, the drone program, and ClearView AI. - Philip Elpers (232 Avenida de Azalius): Noted that private donations could allow police to circumvent a budget cut for Flock, and called for conditional funding. Cited a data breach that released approximately 70,000 searches from Evansville's Flock cameras. Also criticized the drone program for not releasing public flight logs as promised. - Kelsey Hirsch (510 S Red Bank Rd): Alleged that EPD Chief Doan used Flock technology on a city travel vehicle to track her spouse (a former EPD records employee) and a coworker during a work trip to Indianapolis without a warrant. Urged council to reject Flock and ClearView. - Bart Heath: Argued that Flock's expansion to a national surveillance network implies involvement of federal agencies (NSA, FBI, CIA, IDF). Referenced court decisions limiting First Amendment recording of police. Compared current surveillance trends to the gates of Rafah in Gaza. Discussion Items - Ordinance G-2026-16 (Alley Vacation): Unanimously adopted (9-0). Vacates a 12-foot alley between 214 and 222 Main Street. Krista Lockyear, representing the petitioner, stated the alley currently runs through a parking lot and serves no purpose. The developer (Josh Tadella of Zuki) plans to turf the parking lot and create an outdoor event space with a large screen, enhancing the downtown area. CenterPoint reserved an easement. Council members expressed strong support for the project. - Ordinance G-2026-17 (PILOT for Crawford Door Affordable Housing): Unanimously adopted (9-0). Approves a 40-year Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) agreement for the Crawford Door development (1701 N Heidelbach). The project includes adaptive reuse and new construction of 134 affordable multifamily units (10 at 50% AMI, 124 at 60% AMI). The owner will pay an annual PILOT of $26,500, increasing 1% per year starting in 2029, after which property taxes resume. Total development cost is $42.7 million. Project sponsor Colby Jackson noted the PILOT allows the owner to borrow more due to lower operating expenses. Rob (developer) detailed the use of federal and state Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, READI 2.0 funds, and city funding. A relocated EVPL library branch is under discussion. Public commenter Lee Russell asked about local hiring; the general contractor is Empire Contractors, based in Evansville. Another public commenter asked why taxpayers are paying; Colby explained the PILOT is authorized by Indiana Code for LIHTC projects, and the city receives the entire PILOT payment (county is exempted). - Ordinance F-2026-13 Amended (Budget Transfers): Adopted (9-0). Controller Robert Gunter presented amendments: $50,000 from temp salaries to repair parts (Met system); $50,000 from health insurance to supplies (Parks); $850 from chemicals to services (golf course); movement of ARP funds to general fund; $250,000 remaining from housing trust fund; additional transfers for security, physical ability test equipment, SWAT vests (25 vests for $14,961.56), and $628,719.43 moved from casino fund to Motor Vehicle Highway Restricted account for the Cross Point roundabout. - Ordinance R-2026-16 (2003 E Franklin St Rezone): Unanimously adopted (9-0). Downzones from C1 to R1 to remove legal nonconforming status. Owner Richard Bennett explained he inherited the property from his mother and discovered it was commercially zoned during an appraisal. APC recommended approval (8-0). - Ordinance R-2026-17 (824 E Blackford Ave Rezone): Adopted (5-3). Rezones from R2 to R3 w/UDC to allow three units (currently a duplex with a basement unit). Owner’s representative Matt Lehman stated the goal is to bring the nonconforming triplex into compliance. He noted that an improvement location permit and site review will be required before the third unit can be occupied, ensuring all city departments (building, fire, water/sewer) sign off. Several neighborhood residents spoke in opposition, citing concerns about historic preservation, lack of permits for prior work, egress safety, increased sewer load on aging infrastructure, and a history of R3 rezonings leading to demolitions and blight. Shona Jarbo (Belmade/Bayard Park Neighborhood Association president) presented data showing only two of six R3 rezonings in the area are still standing. Councilwoman Hatfield voted yes, noting that rezoning is the first step and that site review will address code issues. Voting no: Councilwoman Taylor, Councilwoman Kaylor Lindsay, Councilman Johnson. - Ordinance R-2026-18 (2453-2457 W Franklin St Rezone): Adopted (7-0). Downzones from C1 to R2 to remove legal nonconforming status for two duplexes. Owner Constance Nord stated she is selling the properties and the downzone will help the buyer obtain a mortgage. - Resolution C-2026-34 (Resilience Hub Study Stipends): Adopted (7-1). Authorizes up to $150 per participant for up to 20 residents to participate in community engagement sessions for a resilience hub feasibility study. Lauren Lynch (Evansville Climate Collaborative) explained that the hubs would provide safe refuge during emergencies (power outages, extreme weather). Stipends are intended to offset barriers (time off work, childcare) for vulnerable residents. Councilwoman Kaylor Lindsay voted no. Councilwoman Allen was absent for this vote. Key Outcomes - Approved: Ordinance G-2026-16 (alley vacation) (9-0) - Approved: Ordinance G-2026-17 (Crawford Door PILOT) (9-0) - Approved: Ordinance F-2026-13 Amended (budget transfers) (9-0) - Approved: Ordinance R-2026-16 (2003 E Franklin rezoning) (9-0) - Approved: Ordinance R-2026-17 (824 E Blackford rezoning) (5-3; Taylor, Kaylor Lindsay, Johnson opposed) - Approved: Ordinance R-2026-18 (2453-2457 W Franklin rezoning) (7-0) - Approved: Resolution C-2026-34 (resilience hub stipends) (7-1; Kaylor Lindsay opposed) - Next Meeting: Monday, October 5, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. - Meeting Adjourned: 7:50 p.m.