Public Meetings - Evansville, Indiana

The Board of Park Commissioners held a regular meeting on September 16, 2026, at 12:00 P.M. The meeting covered consent agenda items, new business including a deer cull permit, native planting project, electrical repair bids, pet waste stations, emergency call box, and flooring change order, as well as public comments on park safety and operations. Consent Calendar - Request to donate one golf pass (foursome with cart) for University of Evansville Basketball Dinner/Auction. Approved unanimously. - Request to approve and execute Extension 4 of the Master Agreement with Sonitrol of Evansville, Inc. and Maxitrol, Inc. for various park facilities. Approved unanimously. - Request to execute Agreement with Sellers Masonry, Inc. for Wesselman Park Tennis Lighting project. Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Gabe Correjo (former elite diver): Expressed strong opposition to YMCA’s operation of diving boards at Deaconess Aquatic Center, citing safety violations, lack of preventative measures, and alleged lost taxpayer revenue of $70,000–$100,000 per year. Requested the board revoke YMCA’s operational authority for diving boards and reconsider the facility management agreement. - Walter Branson Bennett (Jacobsville resident, JNIA member): Voiced concerns about the native planting project potentially expanding beyond existing berms, prioritized a half-basketball court instead, requested a drinking fountain, four-way light pole, additional picnic tables, redbud trees, and swing area maintenance. Also noted disagreements among neighbors about park improvements. - Larry Thorbeck (resident): Raised speeding concerns at Wesselman Park, specifically near tennis/pickleball courts and the new playground. Suggested speed bumps or digital speed signs. Also noted a missing speed sign at the old Robert Stadium entryway. - Don Nichols (University South representative, United Neighborhoods of Evansville): Complimented park improvements but warned of potential accident risk at Wesselman Park due to speeding vehicles near the new playground. Recommended speed bumps and suggested engaging pickleball reservation contacts to raise awareness. Discussion Items - Deer Cull at Wesselman Nature Center: Derek Walsh (Director of Natural Resources and Research, Wesselman Woods) requested permission to continue the annual deer hunt. He explained that over 20 years of deer herbivory has prevented tree regeneration and that the deer population (estimated 5–20 in the 200-acre fenced area) threatens forest health. The hunt will use two archery hunters (no firearms) on Sundays and Mondays, with deer meat and organs donated to feed rehabilitated raptors. The ideal deer population for health is about five, but zero is needed temporarily to allow oak and hickory regeneration. Approved unanimously. - Native Planting Project at Jacobsville Park: Bryce Mosby (Dream Center) and Annie O'Dean (resident) requested permission for the Indiana Native Plant Society and Jacobsville Neighborhood Association to install a native plant garden on two existing berms that had died. They described volunteer efforts, herbicide-free management, and community support. Walter Branson Bennett opposed the garden expansion, advocating for a basketball court instead. Board clarified the request only covers replanting existing berms, not expanding. Approved unanimously. - Electrical Work at Igleheart Park: Scott Fankhauser (Park Maintenance Superintendent) requested permission to seek sealed bids for storm damage repairs (fallen tree damaged a pole and wiring). Estimated cost over $50,000 triggers bidding requirement. Approved unanimously. - Pet Waste Stations on Greenway: Matthew Mills (Greenway Advisory Board) requested permission to install five pet waste stations at Masco Park, Garvin Park, Shirley James, and Heidelbach Canoe Launch for cleanliness and public health. Stations would be purchased with Greenway Advisory Board funds, with bag refills by Parks Department. Approved unanimously. - Emergency Call Box on Greenway: Matthew Mills requested approval to use Greenway Advisory Board funds (up to $10,000) for an emergency call box near Dresden Street, to be matched by Evansville Trails Coalition (total $20,000). Officer Fozie (EPD) raised concerns: existing call boxes have location accuracy issues, power outages, frequent false alarms, potential flood damage, and maintenance costs falling on Parks Department. She suggested a better location and more research. The board voted to table the item for further study and collaboration with EPD and Parks. - Flooring Change Order at C.K. Newsome Center: Danielle Crook (Executive Director) requested approval of Change Order 1 with Garmong Construction for additional flooring in renovated areas. Funding was available from original project savings. Approved unanimously. - Executive Director’s Report: Danielle Crook announced the official splash pad opening at Igleheart Park on Sunday, September 20, 2026, from 1–3 P.M. The splash pad will remain open as temperatures allow, regular hours 10 A.M. to 7 P.M. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar items approved unanimously. - Deer cull at Wesselman Nature Center approved unanimously. - Native planting project at Jacobsville Park approved unanimously. - Permission to seek bids for Igleheart Park electrical repairs approved unanimously. - Pet waste stations on Greenway approved unanimously. - Emergency call box motion to table carried (no vote tally provided, but seconded). - Change order for C.K. Newsome Center flooring approved unanimously. - Payroll and vendor claims accepted unanimously. - Meeting adjourned.

The Vanderburgh County Data Center Research Committee held its second meeting on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 2:48 PM in Room 301 of the Civic Center Complex in Evansville, Indiana. Chair Lloyd Lamberton presided. Members Scott Ambrose and Richard Reed were absent. The committee reviewed a draft ordinance template, discussed definitions for data centers, and began outlining categories based on size and community impact. Key decisions included establishing a framework for small, medium, large, and hyperscale data center categories, and directing staff to compile definitions for further refinement. Approvals and Administrative Items - Minutes from the September 2, 2026 meeting were acknowledged but no formal vote was recorded. - Committee membership changes: A member resigned, and Mark Murry was appointed as replacement. Susan Hardwick and Mark Murry introduced themselves, noting their backgrounds in utilities and data analysis, respectively. - Communication: John Bates and Susan Hardwick still needed access to the SharePoint site, which had been populated with ordinance-related files. Discussion Items Draft Ordinance Template Review - Jenna Richardt presented a draft ordinance template compiled from multiple existing ordinances. Susan Hardwick asked whether decommissioning standards were included; Jenna confirmed it was a bullet point but not fully developed. - Committee members agreed to use the template as a starting point and make edits iteratively in future meetings. Data Center Definitions and Applicability - Chair Lamberton referenced model ordinances from Kentucky and other sources. Definitions from the Kentucky model ordinance were read aloud, including definitions for "data center" and "data center accessory use structure." - Tom Shetler, Jr. recommended using the phrase "sole purpose of" to distinguish data centers from businesses with incidental data processing. - Mark Murry suggested definitions should be based on measurable community impacts (e.g., noise, utility usage) rather than just size or power demand. - Lauren Lynch emphasized the need to define the purpose of the regulated use (e.g., on-site vs. regional/global services). - Jason Naab recommended defining a data center first, then establishing thresholds (size, megawatts) and applicable zoning districts. - Susan Hardwick recommended keeping "grandfathering" under consideration to avoid impacting existing businesses. Proposed Data Center Categories - The committee discussed categories: small, medium, large, and hyperscale. Examples from existing ordinances were cited: Warwick County (small <10,000 sq ft, medium <40,000 sq ft, large 40,000 sq ft) and a data center tracker using energy use (mega campuses 1 GW, hyperscale 100 MW, large 51-99 MW, medium 11-50 MW). - Mark Murry proposed defining categories by size, power, and typical characteristics. An example framework was presented: small (<20,000 sq ft, <5 MW), medium (20,000-100,000 sq ft, 5-20 MW), large (100,000-500,000 sq ft, 20-100 MW), with threshold details to be refined. - The committee generally agreed to use at least three categories (small, medium, large) and possibly a hyperscale category, with parameters to be finalized. Electric Infrastructure, Reliability, and Cost Allocation - Jon Robertson explained that large data centers often build or fund dedicated power infrastructure (e.g., combined-cycle natural gas plants) and may construct their own water/wastewater treatment facilities. Service terms are typically negotiated in contracts approved by the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC). - A representative from CenterPoint (unidentified speaker) stated that the utility requires data center developers to pay 100% of infrastructure costs to serve them, and that rates are set by the Indiana Commission for the local territory only, not shared across other regions. The representative noted that customers could potentially benefit from feed-in tariffs or spreading fixed costs. - Susan Hardwick cautioned against blurring ordinance requirements with contractual matters; Lauren Lynch asked how residents could be assured they wouldn't bear project-related costs. Discussion included bonding for decommissioning and infrastructure to protect ratepayers. - Committee members underscored the importance of ensuring that infrastructure upgrades are fully funded by the developer, and that the ordinance should include decommissioning standards. Community Impact and Additional Definitions - Lauren Lynch expressed a desire to allocate time to discuss community impacts (e.g., noise, water usage, transportation) rather than just contractual terms. - Chair Lamberton noted that further definitions would be added as the committee reviews other sections of the ordinance. - Committee members identified the need to inventory existing data centers in Vanderburgh County and determine applicability/grandfathering. Upcoming Meeting Calendar and Site Visits - The committee reviewed the upcoming review calendar: September 29 (Sections 6-8), October 13 (Sections 9-11), October 20 (Sections 12-14), November 10 (Sections 15-17), November 17 (Sections 18-19), December 8 (public comment meeting), December 15 (final vote on recommendations). - It was suggested to reorganize the calendar to group energy-related topics (electric, water) for more focused discussion, and to invite speakers from Evansville Water & Sewer Utility and CenterPoint. - Site visits were discussed: a large hyperscale campus in New Albany, Ohio (no longer offering tours but viewable externally) and a smaller facility in Hammond, Indiana that offers tours. Committee members considered sending a few representatives due to travel costs. Key Outcomes - The committee agreed to define a "data center" using a primary definition and to develop subsets for small, medium, large, and hyperscale facilities, with parameters for square footage, megawatt demand, and typical characteristics to be refined. - Jenna Richardt will compile the draft definitions based on the discussion and circulate them for edits before the next meeting. - The committee will continue to consider measurable community impacts, existing facilities, grandfathering, applicable zoning districts, infrastructure reliability, and cost allocation. - The committee directed staff to arrange presentations from Evansville Water & Sewer Utility and CenterPoint for upcoming meetings. - Adjournment: Motion by Jenna Richardt, seconded by John Bates, unanimously passed at 2:48 PM.

The combined meeting of the Vanderburgh County Board of Commissioners and Drainage Board was called to order at 9:34 a.m. on September 15, 2026, in Room 301 of the Civic Center Complex, with President Justin Elpers presiding. All three commissioners (Justin Elpers, Amy Canterbury, Mike Goebel) were present. The meeting covered infrastructure projects, technology upgrades, public safety, economic development, a public hearing, and several public comments, followed by a separate Drainage Board session. The meeting adjourned at 10:27 a.m. for the Commissioners, after which the Drainage Board convened. Consent Calendar - Approval of August 25, 2026, Board of Commissioners meeting minutes. - Employment changes across multiple departments. - Auditor’s claims voucher reports for three periods (8/24–8/28, 8/31–9/4, 9/7–9/11, 2026). - Assessor’s surplus request (office chairs). - Clerk’s July 2026 monthly report. - Commissioners’ appropriation requests (4). - Computer Services: Konica Minolta equipment delivery and acceptance certificate. - Convention Center Operating Fund appropriation request. - Engineer’s report and claims. - Sheriff’s surplus request (multiple vehicles). - Superintendent of County Buildings appropriation request. - Treasurer’s July 2026 Innkeeper’s Tax Report and August 2026 monthly report. - Appointment of Mark Murry to the Data Center Research Committee (replacing an IT candidate). (3-0) Public Comments & Testimony - Andrew Angel (Business Manager, Laborers Local 561): Representing over 1,600 workers, he expressed support for the Elliot Battery Storage System (BESS) project but requested a good-faith commitment from RWE (owner/developer) to utilize the local skilled workforce for construction work traditionally performed by laborers. He noted RWE is reviewing the union’s proposal and that the project is expected to create 200–300 construction jobs for about a year. He urged that workforce commitments be secured before final decisions. - Darlena Lancaster (4600 Detroy Road): Addressed a long-standing problem at 4612 Detroy Road, under condemnation for seven years. She requested a clear plan and timeline for demolition, citing the property is in tax sale (finalizing September 24), has changed ownership, and contains asbestos and black mold. Craig Emig reported a hearing officer ordered a raze and gave owners time to hire contractors, though the tax sale complicates progress. Commissioners said they would follow up. Discussion Items Engineering and Infrastructure - INDOT Community Crossings Matching Grant (Application 15370): Approved a financial commitment letter for paving county roads. Total estimate: $1,274,242.60; county 50% share: $637,121.30. Roads include portions of Old State, Schutte, Petersburg, St. Joe, Green River, Boehne Camp, Kansas, Hogue, Mill, and Norm Wagner. (3-0) - Hogue Road Bridge 860 Replacement: Approved engineering agreement with Lochmueller Group for design not to exceed $200,000 (total contract $600,000). Federal funds of $2.6 million were awarded for fiscal year 2032; the replacement was timed after completion of the nearby Lloyd4U project to minimize road closures. (3-0) - Petersburg Road Project Amendment 1: Approved increase of $1,680,757 (new total $3,437,757) with American Structurepoint for full design, right-of-way engineering, and acquisition for the corridor from Kansas Road to Club House Drive, split into phases. Funding shifted from Vanderburgh Industrial Park TIF to Burkhardt TIF. (3-0) - Oak Hill Road Reconstruction Change Order 2: Approved $11,005.49 increase to adjust a water main avoiding a gas transmission line; costs fully reimbursed by Evansville Water & Sewer Utility. (3-0) - Temporary Speed Reduction on Clover Drive: Approved continuation of 15-mph limit (Elmridge to Bergdolt) for 30 more days to maintain the Oak Hill Road detour. (3-0) - University Parkway Improvements – Old Farm Development: Approved amended plan with a larger rock base in asphalt and eliminated underdrains on turn lanes. (3-0) - Sidewalk Waiver – Creekside West: Approved waiver for a commercial subdivision at 125 N Rosenberger Avenue, recommended unanimously by Area Plan Commission. (3-0) - Road Plans – Deerfield Section 5: Approved plans adding 10 lots on the last vacant land in Deerfield (developer Calvin Dentino). (3-0) - Road Plans – Fieldstone Section 2: Approved plans adding 10 lots north of Fieldstone 1, off Oak Hill Road, extending a cul-de-sac. (3-0) Parks – Burdette Park - Facility Use Agreement – American Red Cross: Approved agreement making Discovery Lodge available at no charge for mass casualty or disaster events. (3-0) Technology Services - Managed Service Provider (MSP) Award – EXOS: Approved five-year IT services contract with Sondhi Solutions d/b/a EXOS, estimated to save $1 million annually (city/county combined) for total $5 million savings, based on a joint city-county committee recommendation. (3-0) Health Department - IDOH WIC Grant Amendment 1: Approved additional $11,203.65 to transition a part-time Peer Counselor to full-time. (3-0) Sheriff’s Office - Motorola In-Car Cameras: Approved purchase of seven dash cameras for interdiction and patrol, financed over five years at 0% interest from existing budget. (3-0) Real Estate – Appraisal Services - Old Coroner’s Building: Approved awards to two lowest bidders: Appraisal Consultants ($2,200, three-week turnaround) and Premium Appraisals ($2,500, four-week turnaround). (3-0) Public Hearing – Road Vacation - Vacation Ordinance CO.V-09-26-007: After a public hearing with no opposition, approved final reading to vacate a portion of Roesner Road in the proposed Old Farm Subdivision. The road will be reconstructed to county standards within the development. (3-0) New Business - 2026 State of the County Address: Announced for Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at Bally’s Riverfront Event Center; doors 10:30 a.m., buffet 11:00 a.m., presentation at noon. Tickets $27 via evansvillerotary.com. - Elliot Battery Storage System (BESS) – Draft Agreements: Attorney Mike Schopmeyer presented draft Economic Development, Decommissioning, and Road Use Agreements. The $200 million, 40‑acre facility near I‑69 and Baseline Road includes no tax abatement, a $250,000 cash payment at build, and a 30% floor on property tax depreciation (preserving old tax code). Fire Chief Adam Farrar described self‑contained units with onsite water storage; regulatory oversight falls under IDHS and NFPA 855. No vote was taken; final agreements and formal adoption are expected after the BZA hearing. - Ribbon Cutting: The new Coroner’s Office ribbon cutting was announced for September 16, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the county jail. Drainage Board Proceedings - Obstruction Petition: Accepted complaint from Daniel Haas; surveyor to investigate. - Encroachment Agreement – 605 White Tail Court: Retroactive approval granted for sewer line relocation affecting a drainage easement. - Saddle Creek Estates Section 4 Drainage Modification: Approved removal of swale 1A. - Ditch Claims: Approved retroactive payment of 13 claims totaling $3,623. - Mark Norman Obstruction – Final Order: Approved removal within one year; findings to be distributed. - Cold Ditch Partial Vacation: Approved documentation for the approved vacation. - Pigeon Creek Watershed Update: New stream gauge at Lynch Road now transmitting data. - Public Comment – Shannon Yarbrough: Raised flooding concerns; surveyor working on a plan for right‑of‑way drainage, with an update expected in about one month. Commissioners committed to follow up. Key Outcomes - All consent and most action items were approved unanimously (3‑0). The BESS draft agreements were discussed but not voted on and will return at a later meeting. - Commissioners pledged to follow up with Darlena Lancaster on the Detroy Road property and with Shannon Yarbrough on drainage issues. - The 2026 State of the County Address is scheduled for October 6, 2026. - The meeting adjourned at 10:27 a.m. for the Commissioners, followed by the Drainage Board session.

The Evansville Redevelopment Commission met on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at 8:30 AM in Room 307 of the Civic Center Complex. The meeting covered routine approvals and a new business item regarding signage installation for the Arts District. All agenda items were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (September 1, 2026): Motion made, seconded, and approved unanimously by voice vote. - Approval of Memo of Executive Session (September 1, 2026): Motion made, seconded, and approved unanimously by voice vote. - Approval of Accounts Payable Voucher Register: Staff explained the register included monthly bills for Willman, Sigico, Rhinelander construction (door repair at Garfield), and a $2,500 progress payment for design work at 301 North Main. Motion made, seconded, and approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Resolution 26ERC27 – Acceptance of Quote for Signage Installation for the Arts District Redevelopment Area: - Staff presented the resolution, noting that business owners in the Haines Corner area requested a directional sign to attract visitors. Three bids were received from Slade, Husk, and Custom Signs. Custom Signs submitted the low bid of $1,717 for total fabrication. Additional permit costs are anticipated. The resolution authorizes a not-to-exceed amount of approximately $3,000 to cover incidentals. The sign features a changeable bottom panel for upcoming events, and business owners volunteered to manage updates. Coordination with the water department was also mentioned. Materials are sales tax exempt (handled administratively). All three bidders were deemed qualified. A motion was made to accept the Custom Signs quote, seconded, and approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Approval of Minutes (September 1, 2026): Unanimous approval. - Approval of Executive Session Memo (September 1, 2026): Unanimous approval. - Approval of Accounts Payable Voucher Register: Unanimous approval. - Resolution 26ERC27: Unanimously adopted, selecting Custom Signs as the vendor for signage installation in the Arts District Redevelopment Area, with a not-to-exceed amount.

Evansville City Council held the first day of budget hearings for the proposed 2027 budget on September 15, 2026, beginning shortly after 3:06 PM. Mayor Terry presented a $152.1 million general fund budget (an 8.5% increase) with a $5.3 million gap to be covered by cash reserves, leaving over $24.4 million in reserves. Department heads and utility directors presented their respective budgets, with emphasis on public safety, infrastructure, parks, stormwater, and workforce investments. No votes were taken; the first reading and final passage are scheduled for September 28 and October 5, 2026, respectively. Mayor’s Budget Overview - Mayor Terry described the 2027 budget as “protecting what makes Evansville strong and investing boldly in what comes next.” - Key investments: $6 million for paving nearly 27 miles of roads; $1.3 million for parks; $1.3 million for zoo accreditation improvements; $2 million repayment of casino fund loan for EMS; purchase of a new platform fire truck and additional police vehicles. - Revenue challenges: property tax caps and state legislation (SEA 1) limit growth; property tax revenue ($62.3 million) is flat, while local income tax ($30 million) is increasing. The city faces a $4.1 million impact from caps, projected to grow to $6 million. - Cost drivers: $3.3 million for new EMS division, $2.5 million for existing workforce salary increases, $2.4 million for pension and health care increases (pension rate from 23.3% to 26.5%). - The budget does not include a tax increase, but the mayor noted that a municipal income tax (up to 1.2%) may be necessary in 2028. Conversations with the county have begun. - Efficiency measures: procurement consultant could save $1 million annually; IT services RFP saved $2.4 million over five years; stormwater management to move to Water & Sewer Utility. Tax Revenue and Finance Overview - Controller Robert Gunter reviewed revenue sources: property tax (62.3 million, flat), local income tax (30 million, increasing), payment-in-lieu-of-taxes from water ($5.6M) and sewer ($7.3M), and other taxes (excise, sin taxes – $5.3M). Total general fund revenue projected at $146.8 million. - Fees are outdated (some unchanged since 1960s); an ordinance to update fees is being prepared. - The casino fund transfer of $10.6 million (2026) will be partly repaid: $2 million in 2027, with $4.6 million remaining. - Contracts for police, fire, and Teamsters include a 4% increase; 2027 is the final year of all current contracts. Department of Metropolitan Development (DMD) - Director Kobe Jackson presented DMD’s operating budget, noting a 15.3% decrease in contractual services due to bringing historic preservation in-house. - Grants and subsidies line item was zeroed out ($161,000) because of required cuts; other departments may be asked to fund those grants. - Tax increment financing (TIF) areas: several bonds are aligned; the Forge bond figure may be off by $200,000 (correction pending). The new South Kentucky TIF area (established 2024) is expected to spur development. - Requests include $250,000 for land banking and $1 million for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund (supports home repairs and developments like Grandview Tower, Phoenix Apartments). Parks and Recreation - Director Danielle Crook highlighted a focus on maintaining existing assets. Key items: 100,000 for court resurfacing (up to 4 courts); camera and Wi-Fi upgrades for security and work orders; Swander Ice Arena roof replacement; HVAC and camera upgrades at the arena; pool rescue tubes and splash pad paint at Rochelle and Mosby. - Revenue increases: 33.3% at Swander due to fee alignment; shelter revenue down due to heat, but projected to rise after Garvin Park Phase 2 shelter completion. - Soccer and football programming turned over to Explore Evansville to improve efficiency. - Golf course investments: fairway mower, grooming brush, top dresser, and sand budgeted specifically. Engineering and Traffic - City Engineer Brian Mundy reported that MS-4 staff moving to the utility reduces engineering salaries by 24%, with savings redirected to pavement maintenance. - Wheel tax generates $2.568 million for paving, covering about 10 miles of roads at $250,000 per mile. However, needed investment is $10–12 million annually to improve road conditions. - Street light costs: $2.5 million (increase due to outstanding POs); contract with CenterPoint being renegotiated, aiming for $500,000 savings. - Traffic engineering: new bucket truck ($180,000), sign truck upfit, portable message boards, and school flasher cabinet upgrades are requested. Traffic signals have no county or school funding for flashers. Fire, EMS, and Public Safety - Fire Chief Tony Knight noted the budget reflects increased costs for building maintenance (roof repair band-aids) and equipment. A new platform truck replaces a problematic unit (265 days out of service in 2026). - EMS Division (launched July 1, 2026): Chief Knight reported 5,000 calls in two months; 90th percentile turnout time 1 minute 46 seconds; paramedic arrival time 7:43; offload time 11 minutes. Cardiac arrest: 47.8% return of spontaneous circulation; 42.3% received bystander CPR. Revenue: $330,000 collected in 60 days, average $478 per transport vs. projected $450. - 2027 EMS budget projects $8.5 million in billing revenue plus grants/partnerships totaling $11.5 million. - Fire merit commission and pension budgets are routine; the pension is state-reimbursed. Police Department - Chief Smith reported 199 personally assigned vehicles out of 265 officers (59% take-home). Average vehicle mileage dropped to 81,000 miles due to newer cars and surplus sales. - The 2027 budget funds Flock cameras and Clearview AI software under computer software ($265,000). The Flock contract expires November 2026; renewal talks pending. Chief defended the system as an investigatory tool with audits and a transparency portal. - Small tools and equipment include TV monitors, computers, and cabinet upgrades for roll call space. Animal Control - Director Missy Mosby noted a significant increase because animal control is now its own department. No animal euthanized for space since October 2025. Success with microchip ordinance reuniting pets. - Budget increases for printing/advertising (bilingual materials), contractual services (building authority), and capital: a van for easier animal loading. Software: 24PetWatch for lost animals. - The shelter faced panleukopenia, giardia, and parvo outbreaks but saved all but three cats and three dogs. Street Maintenance and Urban Forestry - Director Todd Robertson presented budgets for city maintenance, street maintenance, and urban forestry. - Street maintenance: fuel and tire costs up; salt inventory at 6,000 tons (capacity), with ability to order 2,400 more; pothole patching materials increased. - CIP includes a snow plow for firehouses, outfitting two trucks purchased last year, and a grapple saw attachment for urban forestry to improve tree removal efficiency. - Merts transit: ridership trending upward; fixed routes at 577,000 rides so far (up from 718,140 last year). Micro service down slightly. Grant work now done in-house, saving $55,000. - Cemeteries: software for GIS mapping of graves; $40,000 for tree removal contracting. Water and Sewer Utility - Director Vic Kelson highlighted: no interruption in operations, compliance maintained; 120 water main breaks in one week last winter; Riverside sinkhole repaired (FEMA request $10 million pending). - Lead service line testing underway; paperless billing to save hundreds of thousands. - Stormwater operations transitioning to EWSU in January 2027 with $1 million allocated (master plan and capital). - Finance Director Keith Penny presented combined revenue of $182 million, expenses $165 million (operating) plus $37.4 million capital. Water rates: phase 5 of IURC case not enacted yet; sewer rates unchanged since 2020. - Efficiencies: contractual services decreased $3.4 million over two years; purchase power and chemical costs up due to tariffs. - Key capital projects: groundwater treatment plant design (50% complete, construction by end of 2027) estimated up to $152 million; ERP system migration; stormwater master plan. - The $2.4 million increase in joint cost is largely due to MS-4 staffing and engineering services moved from bonds to operating. Wrap-Up and Next Steps - Controller Gunter noted errors found in budget documents will be corrected and presented to council. First reading of the budget ordinance is set for September 28, 2026, at 5:30 PM; final reading on October 5, 2026. Amendments can be proposed by council or the controller, but cannot add to the budget.

The Port Authority of Evansville held its regular meeting on Monday, September 14, 2026, beginning at approximately 12:00 p.m. and adjourning at 12:15 p.m. The board addressed approval of the prior meeting memorandum, an update on the LST mooring dock, the finance report, and acceptance of accounts payable vouchers. Discussion Items - Old Business – LST Mooring Dock Update: Board member Robert reported contacting a company to assess and potentially auction the dock. The company proposed a $5,000 fee for a site assessment (since original specifications were lost) and a 7–10% commission on the final sale price if auctioned. A prior assessment valued the dock at approximately $1 million, implying a potential commission of $70,000 to $100,000. The board discussed the costs and expressed interest in obtaining additional quotes from other vendors such as Current Miller and Southern. The board directed staff to contact at least two more companies for comparable assessment and auction fee proposals, given ongoing monthly carrying costs. - Finance Report – R. Gunter: As of August 31, 2026, revenues were up primarily due to a second transfer of $96,250 from the park and recreation fund. Expenses increased: electric services rose 26.6%, water services rose 18.3%, and a $44,805 rental payment was made to Marina Point. Total year-to-date expenditures were $180,274, resulting in a net income of $14,496. Cash on hand was $90,153, with $52,734 in investments, totaling $143,488; encumbrances stood at $39,892. Key Outcomes - Meeting Memorandum Approval: A motion was made and seconded to approve the meeting memorandum from August 10, 2026. The motion carried. - Finance Report Acceptance: The board voted unanimously to accept R. Gunter’s finance report. - Accounts Payable Voucher Approval: The board approved the accounts payable voucher registers for August 19, 2026, and September 10, 2026. Payments included utility bills for the LST site (SIGECO: $214.53 and $197.59), the building at 610 Northwest Riverside Drive (SIGECO: $4,396.03, $233.29, and $5,268.62), and rent payments to RDM Land LLC (the new owner of the inland marina) for July, August, and September 2026 at $4,978.33 each. - Direction on LST Mooring Dock: The board directed staff to obtain at least two additional assessment and auction fee proposals (e.g., from Current Miller and Southern) before deciding on the dock’s disposition.

The Evansville Common Council met on September 14, 2026, at 5:39 p.m. in Room 301. Eight members were present (one absent, quorum present). The meeting included adoption of consent items, second readings of two finance ordinances, approval of a resolution concerning a tax phase-in memorandum, and public comments on data centers, surveillance, code enforcement, and LGBTQ+ community needs. Consent Calendar - Approved ordinances (first reading): G-2026-16 (alley vacation at 214-222 Main St), G-2026-17 (PILOT agreement for affordable housing project Crawford Door, LP), F-2026-13 (appropriation transfers), R-2026-20 (rezoning 5100 E Morgan Ave from C2 to M1), R-2026-21 (rezoning 1500 N Heidelbach Ave from M2 to R5). Adopted unanimously without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Charlene Breaker (2526 Serenity Place) opposed placement of data centers near residential areas, citing noise impacts causing stillbirths in cattle and potential harm to pets and humans. She questioned whether data centers would replace human jobs. - Connie Whitman (Evansville, SE side) expressed opposition to data centers and AI, referencing dystopian literature and articles from the Evansville Courier & Press. She urged council to act against these technologies. - Candace Taylor (317 Hayes Drive) expressed concern about surveillance technology (cameras, license plate readers) and requested transparency, public oversight, and safeguards against misuse. - Yvonne Moran (Booneville, IN, former Evansville resident) advocated for LGBTQ+ community needs: an all-night youth halfway house, better data collection on homelessness, and a local LGBTQ+ history museum. She also urged expanding the data center advisory board to include more citizens and outside scientists. - Christopher Neumann (3121 S Rotherwood Ave) complained about slow code enforcement on a fire-damaged property still unrepaired after 18 months, suggesting the system relies on neighbor complaints rather than proactive follow-up. - Ken Colbert (1 NW Martin Luther King Blvd) submitted a public records request under Indiana Code 5-14-3 for emails and logs between Mayor Terry and Evansville Water & Sewer regarding solar panel fund transfers, and for meeting minutes on the interlocal agreement. He asked the council to forward his request to the mayor's office and water utility; the council declined to forward but noted they would respond for council records. Discussion Items - Ordinance F-2026-11 – $300,000 appropriation from cash balance for riverfront levy upgrades. Robert Gunter (Controller) introduced the item. Mike (parks/levy representative) explained that the Army Corps of Engineers inspects the levy annually and this work (cleaning, painting, concrete repairs) addresses items on their grade card. It has been 15–20 years since the last paint job. Council members asked about fund balance health (it remains healthy) and the bidding timeline (expected completion this year). Passed 8-0. - Ordinance F-2026-12 – Two items from the Department of Metropolitan Development (DMD, presented by Colby Jackson): 1) $70,000 from HOME shovel-ready fund and $130,000 from Crawford Door's HOME account (total $200,000) for Memorial CDC's Ravenswood rehabilitation project (8 units at 1550-1556 S Kentucky Ave). 2) $25,000 in CDBG funds from contractual services to Echo Housing for the Evansville 360 initiative, a community-based crime prevention framework modeled after Omaha's program. Eric Tilkemeyer (Echo Housing) described the program, noting a 70% reduction in violent crime in partner cities within two years. Council members Johnson, Hieronymus, and Hatfield recused themselves due to potential conflicts (with HOME/CDBG boards). Passed 5-0. - Resolution C-2026-32 – Authorizing execution of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Uniseal, Inc. regarding a previously granted 8-year property tax phase-in for a warehouse at North Fourth Avenue. The MOA formalizes enforcement provisions, clawback rights, and mutual obligations. Council attorney explained it is a housekeeping matter. A council member raised concerns about tax incentives in general and the metric requiring 90% performance on 2 out of 3 categories (questioning why job creation was not required in all categories). The attorney noted metrics are tracked by E-REP and noncompliance can trigger removal of incentives. Public commenter Ken Colbert asked if a bond is required to guarantee the 61 jobs; the president answered no. Resolution adopted 8-0. Key Outcomes - Ordinance F-2026-11 adopted (8-0). - Ordinance F-2026-12 adopted (5-0, with three recusals). - Resolution C-2026-32 adopted (8-0). - Consent agenda adopted unanimously. - Next meeting scheduled for September 28, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. - Budget hearings announced for September 15 and 16 (if needed) at 3:00 p.m.; public input will not be permitted at those hearings.

On September 14, 2026, the Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library (EVPL) presented its proposed 2027 budgets and tax levies to the Evansville City Council during a pre-meeting work session. Finance Director Laurie Tomlin, joined by CEO Scott Kinney, CO Heather Kelsey, and Willard Library Executive Director George Carter, provided an overview of the budget documents and updates on library projects and programming. The council asked questions and expressed appreciation for the library’s fiscal prudence and community impact. Discussion Items - Budget Overview: Tomlin presented a total estimated budget of $23,867,346 across all five funds, representing a 2.1% increase—well under the 3% maximum allowed for libraries under new state legislation (House Enrollment Act 1406, which capped library budget growth at half of the 6% maximum levy growth quotient). This kept the library in non-binding review status. The budget was previously reviewed by the DLGF during a virtual workshop and a public hearing was held on September 10, 2026. Adoption is scheduled for October 8, 2026 at 4:30 p.m. at Central Library. - Levy Rate Explanation: Tomlin explained that due to a standard reduction in assessed value recommended by the DLGF, some forms show inflated levy rates for the operating fund, Willard Special Library Fund, and debt service fund, but these will level out during certification. The operating fund will not exceed the maximum levy, debt service will remain rate neutral, and the Willard fund will be held to the statutory maximum rate of 0.0167 per $100. - Council Questions: Robert Gunter asked about the impact of legislative changes. Tomlin reiterated the 3% budget growth cap. Council members expressed appreciation for the library’s conservative budgeting, with one stating, "I appreciate that you're not raising it the full amount. That's excellent." - Building Projects: EVPL provided updates: - Red Bank Project: Demolition began the week of September 14, with groundbreaking scheduled for Wednesday, October 7, 2026 at noon. - Oakland Branch: Substantially complete, awaiting final external furniture. - Crawford Door Project: Still in discussion; will return to council next year. - EVPL Foundation Fundraiser: "In the Stacks" on Friday, November 13, 2026 at EVPL Central, featuring a one-night art exhibit and the Mayor's Art Award. - Programming Success: Summer reading programs saw increased attendance after years of decline, with over 600 programs held in two months. The library is already planning 2027 summer reading and arts programming. Upcoming author events include Arwen Donahue (on Wednesday, September 16, 2026) and Tony Tipton Martin (October 22, 2026). Key Outcomes - No formal votes or binding decisions were taken during the presentation. The council acknowledged the budget presentation and expressed support for the library’s fiscal management and community programs. The library will proceed with the adoption process on October 8, 2026.

The Evansville Police Merit Commission met in open session on Monday, September 14, 2026, at 4:23 p.m. in Room 307 of the Civic Center Complex, following a closed executive session. The Commission approved routine items, received updates on probationary officers and pending discipline, and certified the 2026 lieutenant promotional list. Guest Scott Altered was acknowledged. Executive Session - Before the open session, the Commission held an executive session closed under I.C. 5-14-1.5-6.1(b)(5) (interviews of prospective employees), I.C. 5-14-1.5-6.1(b)(6)(A) (information about alleged misconduct of an individual under the Commission’s jurisdiction), and I.C. 5-14-1.5-6.1(b)(9) (job performance evaluations of individual employees). No action was reported from the executive session. Consent Calendar - Minutes: The Commission approved the minutes of the August 24, 2026 meeting. (Agenda lists Johnson-Kincaid, Sutton, and Thompson as the minutes committee.) - Claims: The Commission approved claims totaling $599.10. Discussion Items - Probationary Officer Update: The Commission received an update on probationary officers in field training and at SWILEA. No action was taken. - Pending Discipline: The Commission was updated on pending discipline in case 26-PDO-11/26-PDO-11A: Officer Anthony Stephenson, Badge Number 1596, whose 21-day suspension was modified to termination. The appeal hearing is set for October 12, 2026. (The transcript refers to the officer as “Anthony Stevenson”; the agenda lists “Anthony Stephenson.”) - Promotional Process: A motion to certify the 2026 Lieutenant Promotional List, retroactively effective from September 11, 2026, through September 10, 2028, was seconded and passed unanimously. - Applicants: The agenda listed applicant 26-108 for consideration, but no related discussion or action appeared in the transcript. Key Outcomes - Approved the August 24, 2026 minutes. - Approved claims totaling $599.10. - Certified the 2026 Lieutenant Promotional List retroactive to September 11, 2026, through September 10, 2028. - Scheduled the next meeting for Monday, September 28, 2026, at 4:15 p.m. - Adjourned after a motion and second.