OPENPUBLICA · PUBLIC MEETING RECORD
Record of Proceedings

City County Council Meeting Summary - March 2, 2026

City-County CouncilMonday, March 2, 2026
BodyIndianapolis, Indiana
SessionCity-County Council
DateMonday, March 2, 2026
StatusFILED
Video Record

STREAMING COPY IN PREPARATION — RECORDING AVAILABLE FROM THE ORIGINAL SOURCE

Transcript — Verbatim
0:00

Good evening.

0:01

I will now call to order the City County Council meeting for Monday, March 7th.

0:05

It's March 2nd, 2026.

0:07

We'll begin with a prayer pledge of allegiance led by Counselor Gibson.

0:24

Would you all please join me in prayer?

0:28

I know there's a lot going on in the world right now, and uh award that uh there's a lot of division about and in support for, but uh thank God we live in America and I I thank God that we're all Americans.

0:40

So uh join me in prayer.

0:42

Deputy Father, I uh thank you for this privilege, this privilege of serving this chamber with these fine individuals.

0:50

I want to first think about uh all levels of our government, God in the name of Jesus.

0:56

I pray for our mayor, Mayor Joe Hogsett, continue to lead God and show him and his entire team to do what's best for the people in Indianapolis.

1:03

Also want to lift up the judicial branch, God, uh make sure they are handling justice swiftly.

1:10

And God, I pray that you lift up the members that I serve with in this council, God.

1:14

We'll make a lot of hard decisions, and they're not easy.

1:18

We may have opposition support, but we try to do the best thing that we can do for direction of our people.

1:25

I want to lift up uh councilwoman um president, Maggie Lewis and her husband, and the passing of her father-in-law.

1:33

I pray you'll continue to strengthen their family.

1:36

God, we ask that every person who lives in Naples that we do the will and create what you desired in our hearts and command us to do, God, and that's to love, love one another.

1:48

In Jesus' name we pray, amen.

1:52

Join me to pledge allegiance.

1:53

I pledge allegiance to the flag, the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

2:18

Thank you, Councillor Gibson.

2:19

Would all counselors select the green button to indicate your attendance.

2:34

We have a public council that has to be excused this evening, Councilor Armee, Council Nelson, and Sherman, hopefully.

2:43

Next time I'm on our condition.

2:51

Can you hear me now?

2:52

Yes.

2:52

Uh-huh.

2:53

Madam President.

2:54

Yes.

2:55

Can I make a quick uh acknowledgement too?

2:57

To uh Boy Scouts Troop 446.

3:00

Uh, they're doing their local government uh meeting tonight, and I appreciate them for coming out seeing government in action and very much appreciate them for coming out tonight majority leader.

3:14

Thank you, madam president.

3:16

I just wanted to acknowledge uh friends and former constituents from Decatur Township who I know who are in the audience uh showing their freedom of speech tonight on their uh proposed data center coming before their district.

3:27

Thank you all for being here, and I think we've also got some friends and from uh the Ewell Creek area concerned about Eagle Creek and the elite project as well.

3:35

So thank you all for coming downtown.

3:37

I know it's difficult.

3:44

Additional introductions.

3:46

The next item on our agenda is the official communications.

3:49

Madam Clerk.

3:51

Thank you, Madam President.

3:53

Ladies and gentlemen, you are hereby notified the regular meetings of the City County Council, police, fire, and solid waste collection special service district councils will be held in the city county building in the public assembly room on Monday, March 2nd, 2026 at 7 o'clock p.m.

4:12

The purposes of such meetings being to conduct any and all business that may properly come before regular meetings of the council.

4:19

Sincerely, Maggie A.

4:20

Lewis, President City County Council.

4:24

Ladies and gentlemen, pursuant to the laws of the state of Indiana, I call to be published in the Court and Commercial Record and in the Indianapolis Star on Friday, February 6, 2026.

4:36

A copy of notice of public hearing on proposal numbers 13 and 41, 2026, said hearing to be held on Tuesday, February 24th, 2026, at 530 p.m.

4:50

in the public assembly room of the City County Building, and a copy of notice of public hearing for proposals numbers 8 and 10, 2026, said hearing to be held Monday, March 2nd, 2026, at 7 o'clock p.m.

5:05

in the public assembly room of the City County Building.

5:08

On Friday, February 27, 2026, a copy of public notice, notice of public hearing on proposal number 68, 2026, said hearing to be held on Monday, March 9th, 2026 at 530 p.m.

5:25

in the public assembly room of the city county building.

5:29

Ladies and gentlemen, I have approved with my signature and delivered this day to the clerk of the city county council, Yolanda Winfield, the following ordinances.

5:37

General ordinance number 22, 2026, general resolution numbers 1 through 4, 2026, and special resolution number 4, 2026.

5:48

Joseph H.

5:49

Hogsett Mayor.

5:50

Madam President, this concludes the official communications.

5:53

Thank you, Madam Clerk.

5:54

The next item on our agenda is the adoption of the agenda.

5:57

Do I have consent?

5:59

The next item on our agenda is approval of the journals for February 2nd, 2026.

6:03

Do I have consent?

6:05

We'll now proceed to presentations of petitions, memorials, and special resolutions.

6:09

Proposal number 58, introduced by all counselors, recognizes 40 years of dedicated service by Indianapolis Fire Department, IFD Chief Malone.

6:31

Thank you, Madam President.

6:32

Any counselors that wish to join me, and of course, our amazing chief, his family, or any other uh members of the IFD that would like to join us this evening.

6:43

Thank you, Madam President, for the time this evening.

6:45

It was an honor to put together with our colleagues and with our staff.

6:50

Thank you to our staff.

6:50

It was an honor for them as well to be able to honor our brother in service, Indianapolis Fire Department Chief Ernest Malone.

7:04

I was also honored to meet his wife Tammy this evening and thanked her for sharing her husband with us for so many hours over the last several years.

7:15

So tonight we are joined here for the City County Special Resolution No.

7:28

Whereas Ernest V.

7:29

Malone was born and raised in Indianapolis as the middle child of five siblings to Ernest and Mary Malone, living his entire life within the IFD service district, attending Indianapolis public schools, graduating from Arlington High School in 1981, and achieving an associate's degree in fire science, a bachelor's degree in business management, which we enjoy here, sir, a master's degree in management, as well as being a graduate of the National Fire Academy and whereas Ernest and his wife Tammy have grown three sons and still live on the northwest side of Indianapolis in Pike Township and attend Eastern Star Baptist Church and whereas while working as a loss prevention manager at Target at 23 years of age, Ernie was recruited during a walkthrough the what do you guys want.

8:27

Okay.

8:28

Ernie was recruited during a walkthrough.

8:30

The Indiana Black Expo by IFD ladder 19B Lieutenant Eddie Rogers, whose excitement and passion for firefighting inspired Ernest to apply for the position with IFD and whereas.

8:49

And whereas Firefighter Malone was hired by the Indianapolis Fire Department in 1986.

8:55

Over his 40-year career, Chief Malone has held every promotional rank possible on the department, including Lieutenant, Captain, Battalion Chief, Fire Marshal, and Assistant Chief.

9:06

He was promoted to the 42nd Chief of the Indianapolis Fire Department by Mayor Greg Ballard in July 2014.

9:13

And he was reappointed by Mayor Hogset in 2016 and is serving continuously and diligently, which we love and appreciate in that top position for over 11 years.

9:23

And whereas Chief Malone has completed numerous certifications, including EMT, basic emergency rescue technician, Bert, Hazmat technician, topwater rescue, fire inspector and investigator, incident commander, and master scuba diver, which he considers to have been one of the most challenging.

9:46

Among his impressive array of credentials and qualifications, Chief Malone has also received an executive fire officer certification from the National Fire Academy, and is the first Indianapolis firefighter ever to receive the designation of Chief Fire Officer from the Center for Public Safety Excellence, as well as completing the Indiana University's Ron Randall L.

10:11

Tobias Center for Leadership Development Program, after which he was subsequently awarded the designation as a Hoosier Fellow.

10:19

And whereas whereas highly decorated during his years of service, some notable commendations include rookie of the year, American Red Cross Heroes Hall of Fame, Administrative Officer of the Year, Firefighter of the Year, Service Fighter Fighter of the Year, Professional Excellence Award, Medal of Bravery, Community Service Officer of the Year, Medal of Merit, and many more.

10:49

And whereas whereas known among firefighters to be tactically knowledgeable and tenacious about getting the job done right and safely, Chief Ernest Malone has given himself to be a leader who values the traditions of the past while effectively addressing the issues of the present and embracing the challenges of the future.

11:12

Now, therefore, be it resolved by the City County Council of the City of Indianapolis in Marion County, Indiana, Section One.

11:18

The Indianapolis City County Council proudly recognizes the 40 years of dedicated service by Indianapolis Fire Department Chief Ernest Malone.

11:26

Section two, the council looks forward to continuing to work alongside the chief to create an even safer community and wishes him continued success in all future endeavors.

11:35

Section three, the mayor is invited to join this resolution and affix his signature here too, which he has done.

11:42

And finally, section four, this resolution shall be in full force and effect.

11:47

And upon adoption and compliance with Indiana Code 36-3-4-14.

11:52

And Madam President, I so move.

11:54

Second.

11:55

The motion been properly moved and seconded.

11:56

All those in favor signify by saying I.

11:59

Aye.

12:00

Opposed, same sign.

12:01

The motion carries.

12:03

Thank you, Madam President.

12:04

Might we invite the chief for some words?

12:06

Thank you.

12:16

Well, just uh thank you all.

12:19

First, I want to thank my God for giving me the opportunity to serve in in my home city in so many uh capacities.

12:28

Uh, Indianapolis is again not just a place I work, it is my home.

12:32

Um, I want to thank my beautiful wife Tammy for being here with me.

12:36

Um, certainly um in 1985 when I met Lieutenant Rogers walking through Expo, I did not know that we would be here 40 years later, and and certainly having the honor to serve in in this capacity.

12:55

Um I'm honored to have members of the command staff with me.

12:59

I won't introduce them all as much as I encourage them to go home and be with their families.

13:04

They they were not going to not be here for me.

13:07

Uh I have um our vice president of local 416, Paul Cloyd is here.

13:12

We enjoy a uh a wonderful labor management uh relationship.

13:17

Um want to thank Mayor Hogshead and the administration for allowing me to continue my career and all of you.

13:25

Um I don't know how many times I've seen every single counselor stand up here and just know that that's not lost on me.

13:33

It means a lot.

13:34

I I think we've done a lot of wonderful things together, and uh we're not done yet.

13:40

I'm not done yet.

13:41

I'm not retiring, but this is certainly uh a milestone uh uh worth remembering.

13:47

So I I know I'm forgetting something, but uh thank you for this.

13:51

This is not a gesture that I will soon forget.

13:55

So uh I look forward to continuing to serve uh our citizens with you all.

13:59

Thank you very much.

14:26

The next item on our agenda is proposal number sixty, introduced by counselors Alan, Lewis, and Graves, recognizes voices, Madam President, Madam President, while we're waiting on them, can I take a point of privilege just to say after all those warehouses?

15:00

Madam President, while we're waiting on them, can I take a point of privilege just to say after all those warehouses, I think it is evident that we have the best fire chief in the United States of America.

15:18

Thank you, ML.

15:20

Councilor Allen.

15:26

Thank you, Madam President.

15:27

A special resolution recognizing Voices Corporation, whereas Voices Corporation, founded in 2010, is a community-based non-pro-profit organization headquartered on the Far East side of Indianapolis in a designated health equity zone where life expectancy is approximately 16 years lower than any other Indianapolis Zipco.

15:49

And whereas Voices was founded by Keel Wright, a Lawrence Central High School graduate in a former probation officer on the Far East side, grounded in local experience and public service.

16:03

Voices was created to strengthen trust between the families and systems and to ensure young people are met with support, accountability, and respect at critical moments in their lives.

16:14

And whereas operating across the state of Indiana, Voices addresses the conditions that shape outcomes for youth, young adults, and families, including longstanding underinvestment and neighborhoods, housing security, and unmet mental health needs.

16:32

These conditions influence safety, stability, and opportunity, and voices was established to respond with care, consistency, and connection.

16:42

And whereas Voices' mission is to create pathways to healing, stability, and opportunity by centering youth and family voices and transforming how systems engage with communities.

16:58

This mission is carried out through Voices' four pillars of wellness healed, disciplined, educated, and creative, which guide individual development and community restoration.

17:11

And whereas each year, Voices walks alongside more than 1,800 youth and families, many of whom are navigating multiple systems at once.

17:22

Today, Voices is a trusted partner to schools, juvenile probation, health care providers, housing partners, and community organizations statewide.

17:35

As a black-led organization rooted in lived experience and accountability to community, voices continues to strengthen neighborhoods, advance equity, and build a healthier, more connected Indiana.

17:49

Now, therefore, be a resolved by the City County Council of the City of Indianapolis and of Marion County, Indiana.

17:56

Section one, the Indianapolis City County Council recognizes Voices Corporation for the work they have done to strengthen trust between families and systems across the state of Indiana.

18:08

Section two, the council extends its congratulations to Voices Corporation on their many achievements and wishes them success in future endeavors.

18:16

Section three, the mayor is invited to join in this resolution by affixing his signature here to Section Four.

18:23

This resolution shall be in full force and effect upon adoption and compliance with IC 363414.

18:46

The motion has been properly moved and second.

18:48

All those in favor signify by saying aye.

18:51

Those opposed, same sign.

18:53

The motion carries back to the speakers.

18:55

Thank you, Madam President.

18:56

And Madam President, voices is the reason I will always advocate for our youth, all of across our city.

19:05

But they're doing the work.

19:14

All of us, they're impacting those metrics and helping them go in the direction that we want to see.

19:20

Madam President, if it's okay with you, I'd like to ask Ms.

19:23

Wright to come up and say just a couple of words.

19:25

I know we're on a time situation.

19:30

Good evening, and thank you guys so much for this recognition.

19:33

Um, I do want to say that we do not do this by ourselves.

19:36

We have incredible community partners and volunteers and support that has helped us get this fire for 16 years.

19:43

We meet young people and families at their worst moments.

19:46

And it's not always what you see at the headline, it's not always what we see on social media.

19:51

These young people are incredible humans.

19:53

They have made terrible decisions sometimes, but with a lot of support, affirmation, and uh guidance, we are able to turn things around.

20:01

We are proud to be on the far east side of Indianapolis and our home building now, old school 102.

20:07

Um, I invite all of you out there if you ever have a moment, but again, I just thank you guys for this recognition.

20:13

Thank you.

20:15

Thank you.

20:16

Thank you, Madam President.

20:19

The next item on our agenda is proposal number nine, referred to public safety and criminal justice committee.

20:24

Chairman Robinson.

20:25

Thank you, madam.

20:26

Thank you, Madam President.

20:27

Proposal number nine reappoints Robert Hamley to the Marion County Public Defender Board.

20:31

Mr.

20:31

Hamley is no longer able to serve on this board and would like to be removed from consideration.

20:35

The committee voted to withdraw proposal number nine, Miss President 2026 by vote of nine to zero.

20:41

Um Madam President, ISO move.

20:44

To withdraw this proposal.

20:46

Yes.

20:46

Thank you, Mr.

20:47

Chairman.

20:48

Um, with consent, we'd like to uh withdraw proposal number nine.

20:52

Do I have consent?

20:53

The motion passes.

20:54

The next item on our agenda is proposal number thirty-four, referred to admin and finance committee.

20:59

Chairman Miscarry.

21:00

Thank you, Madam President.

21:01

Proposal 34 approves the mayor's appointment of Christopher L.

21:05

Bailey as Chief Deputy Mayor.

21:07

Pass of the committee 100.

21:10

ISO move.

21:11

The motion been properly moved and second.

21:13

Are there comments from counselors?

21:16

CNN will proceed to the board for our votes.

21:24

The proposal carries 22 to 0.

21:27

The next item on our agenda is proposal number 37, referred to Metropolitan and Economic Development Committee.

21:34

Chairwoman Jones.

21:36

Thank you, Madam President.

21:37

Proposal number 37, 2026, appoints Rory Babb to the Woodruff Place Economic Improvement Board.

21:44

The proposal passed out of committee by a vote of 12 to 0.

21:47

And Madam President, I so move.

21:49

The motion has been properly moved and second.

21:50

Are there comments from counselors?

21:53

CNN will proceed to the board for our vote.

21:59

The proposal carries 22 to 0.

22:02

The next item on our agenda is proposal number 67, referred to public safety and criminal justice committee.

22:07

Chairman Robinson.

22:08

Thank you, Madam President.

22:09

Proposal number 67 uh approves the mayor's appointment of Tanya B.

22:13

Terry as a chief of police for the Napoleon's Metropolitan Police Department.

22:16

We took this meeting to the community in Council Graves District on the east side.

22:20

The committee came out strong in support of Chief Terry.

22:24

It passed out of committee 11 to 0.

22:25

Madam President, ISO move.

22:32

CNO, proceed to the board for our vote.

22:39

The proposal carries 22 to 0.

22:42

The next item on our agenda is introductions of proposals.

22:44

Madam Clerk.

22:49

Thank you, Madam President.

22:52

The following proposals were referred to Administration and Finance Committee.

22:56

Proposal number 71, 2026, introduced by Councillor Lewis, approves the mayor's appointment of Shay Joyce as the Deputy Mayor of Government Affairs and Operations.

23:07

Proposal number 72, 2026, introduced by Councillor Miscarry, determines the need for Marion County Clerk's Office to lease approximately 36,377 square feet of office space at 1330 South Madison Avenue.

23:25

The following proposals were referred to the Metropolitan and Economic Development Committee.

23:30

Proposal number 68, introduced by Councillor Jesse Brown, designates a portion of New York Street from East Street to College Avenue as the James T.

23:39

Kinley Memorial Way.

23:41

Proposal number 69, 2026, introduced by Councillor Ossaly, appoints Courtney Yarborough to the Board of Business and Neighborhood Services.

23:51

Proposal number 70, 2026, introduced by Councillor Jesse Brown, directs the City County Council to accept for the record the annual report submitted by the Woodruff Place Economic Improvement District as required by IC 36-7-22-21.

24:09

Proposal number 93, introduced by Counselor Dilk, approves a payment in lieu of taxes as provided in IC 36-3-2-12 for an affordable housing project financed in part with low-income low-income housing tax credits pursuant to Section 42 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 as amended.

24:34

Known as the Grove at Pleasant Run, consisting of 160 affordable housing units for low-income residents at 2852 East County Line Road in District 24.

24:48

The following proposals were referred to the Municipal Corporations Committee.

24:53

Proposal number 73, introduced by Counselor Evans, reappoints Maggie Lewis to the Capital Improvement Board of Managers.

25:02

The following proposals were referred to the Public Safety and Criminal Justice Committee.

25:06

Proposal number 74, introduced number 74, 2026, introduced by Councillor Evans, appoints Brianne Delaney to the early intervention planning council.

25:18

Proposal number 75, 2026, introduced by Council Robinson, appoints Jasmine Tucker to the Citizens Police Complaint Board.

25:27

The following proposals were referred to the rules and public policy committee.

25:33

Proposal number 76, 2026, introduced by Councillor Lewis, directs the rules and public policy committee to review and prepare a report pertaining to the fiscal impact statement associated with the City of Indianapolis, Marion County Union Agreement with the Teamsters Local Union 135 as the exclusive representative of the Mayor's Action Center.

25:57

Proposal number 92, 2026, introduced by Councillor Lewis, appoints Doran Moreland as Chief Administrative Officer and Policy Director for the City County Council of Indianapolis.

26:10

Madam President, this concludes the introductions.

26:12

Thank you, Madam Clerk.

26:13

The next item on our agenda is special orders priority business.

26:16

Proposals number 77 through 91 are all rezoning cases that were certified to the council for approval by the Metropolitan Development Commission.

26:25

If no counselors wishes to call down any of those proposals for reconsideration, they will pass into law.

26:32

CNN, they'll pass into law.

26:35

We'll now proceed to special orders public hearing.

26:39

Before we open the floor for public comments, I would like to call our general council peers to review the ground rules for public testimony as adopted by this body.

26:49

Madam Council.

26:50

Thank you, Madam President.

26:52

As we move to the public comment portion of this hearing, we'd like to remind council members and the public accord ground rules.

26:59

These ground rules will allow it on.

27:04

Can you hear me?

27:06

I won't start over.

27:08

Thank you.

27:09

These ground rules will allow everyone to have a fair chance to speak and be heard.

27:14

It is as it is important that we all observe them.

27:17

The ground rules are as follows.

27:19

Number one, each speaker will be limited to two minutes.

27:21

When the timer goes off, your time is up.

27:23

Number two, any public comments must reasonably relate to the subject matter of the agenda item under consideration.

27:30

Number three, speakers who stray from the subject matter of the item under consideration or become unduly repetitious may be asked to move on to their next point or conclude their comments.

27:40

Finally, attendees who cause disruptions that prevent the council from proceeding through today's agenda in a reasonably efficient manner will be removed.

27:49

Please remember that some types of threatening speech or incitement to violence are not protected by the First Amendment at all.

27:55

We will deal with these issues if they come up, but we don't think they will.

27:59

And now, Madam President, upon adoption of these rules by consent of the members, we can proceed to public comment.

28:04

Do we have consent?

28:06

Thank you.

28:06

The next I am on our agenda is proposal number eight, referred to Metropolitan and Economic Development Committee.

28:12

Madam Chair Jones.

28:13

Thank you, Madam President.

28:15

Proposal number eight, 2026, approves an additional appropriation totaling $2,840,000 in the 2026 budget of the Department of Metropolitan Development for the purpose of funding the costs associated with Section 108 debt and the permanent supportive housing project.

28:32

The proposal was heard in committee on January 12th, 2026, and recommended for passage by a vote of 15 to 0.

28:39

At the February council meeting, the public hearing was postponed until this evening.

28:44

Madam President, I move the adoption of proposal number eight, 2026.

28:49

The motion and properly moved and second.

28:51

Are there comments from counselors?

28:54

Is there anyone in the audience that wishes to speak to proposal number eight?

29:00

Please come forward.

29:02

Proposal number eight.

29:08

Regarding proposal number eight.

29:09

You can put the DMD.

29:13

No Metropolitan Development Development Committee.

29:17

I think what I have to say is along the same lines.

29:37

I have no background in politics, and I certainly don't have any expertise in land use.

29:42

That is why I count on my vote to protect me.

29:45

Decatur Township has been abandoned.

29:48

When we try to call on our elected officials, it falls on deaf ears.

29:52

What has our democracy come to that there is no one to protect the people anymore?

30:00

The problem is we have no definition of a data center at all in our city and or our state.

30:04

Now, right now, indicator township.

30:07

Over 100 tier two diesel generators could be installed next door to residential homes.

30:13

Point of order, Mr.

30:15

Just a few hundred.

30:16

Ma'am, if you could speak to the proposal regarding housing funding.

30:20

I believe that this is related to housing.

30:22

This is data center.

30:23

You're speaking to data center if you don't mind.

30:25

Please speak to the housing proposal.

30:27

Sure, it's right next door to houses.

30:30

Please finish.

30:32

Is that please finish?

30:33

Thank you.

30:35

Uh sorry, I forget where I left off.

30:37

Right now, indicator township, over 100 tier two diesel generators could be installed right next door to residential homes, just a few hundred feet away from people's back doors.

30:47

One for one, each of these engines pollutes more than a tractor trailer.

30:52

And there will be over a hundred of them.

30:55

Every year, for four hours, these generators are going to run, and every time the lights go out.

31:00

A hundred of them, right outside your back door.

31:03

And this isn't an I2.

31:05

The Indianapolis Office of Sustainability's net zero emissions by 2050 goal will be impossible to achieve.

31:12

And they should be able to tell you that.

31:15

This is one example of many that shows these companies do not care about us.

31:19

They are not going to do, they're going to do whatever they want at the cheapest price, but the consequences for our citizens, our city, and our state will be irreversible.

31:28

Take a look at the land zoning on the ground right now.

31:32

Everyone, even the houses, I2 and CS zones could become data centers.

31:39

And they could use whatever resources they want.

31:45

Okay, sorry.

31:46

Trying to do that.

31:46

That's your will you help us.

31:48

Will you put a moratorium in place until a definition of data centers and ordinance around them can be crafted?

31:54

Thank you.

31:55

Please.

31:55

Thank you.

31:56

Thank you for your time.

31:57

Thank you.

31:58

Is there anyone else in the audience that wishes to speak to proposal number eight?

32:04

Seeing that additional comments from counselors.

32:07

We'll proceed to the board for our vote.

32:15

The proposal carries 22 to 0.

32:20

The next item on our agenda is proposal number 10, refer to public safety and criminal justice committee.

32:25

Chairman Robinson.

32:26

Thank you, Madam President.

32:27

Proposal 10, 2026, approves an additional appropriation totaling $65,000 in the 2026 budget for the Marion County Coroners Office for the purpose of funding costs associated with participation in the documentary series and the Health's first Indiana Initiative Grant Project.

32:42

Proposal was heard in committee on January the 14th, 2026.

32:45

It was recommended by for pass by vote of 10 to 0.

32:48

But at the February council meeting, the public hearing was postponed until today.

33:05

The motion may properly move in second.

33:07

Other comments from counselors.

33:33

The next item on our agenda is proposal number 13 and 41.

33:37

Refer to rules and public policy.

33:39

Chairman Boots.

33:41

Thank you, Madam President.

33:42

With consent, I would like to take proposal numbers 13 and 41 2026 together.

33:51

Proposal numbers 13 and 41 2026 called for the rules and public policy committee to review and prepare a report pertaining to the fiscal impact statements associated with the City of Indianapolis, Marion County, Metropolitan Emergency Services Agency.

34:09

Union agreement with the Indianapolis Professional Firefighters, Local 416, and the city's union agreement as a representative of the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department with the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees.

34:23

FSM 962.

34:26

The committee reviewed and accepted these reports at our meeting on February 24th, 2026.

34:32

Copies of which are included in the minutes of the committee hearing and submitted to the clerk for inclusion in the council's journey of proceedings.

34:40

No further action is required of the council.

34:44

Thank you, Madam President.

34:45

Thank you, Chairman Boots.

34:47

Do we have consent to accept the report?

34:51

Thank you.

34:51

We'll now proceed to proposal number 35, refer to admin and finance.

34:56

Chairman Muscary.

34:58

Thank you, Madam President.

35:00

Proposal 35 determines the need for Marion County Election Board to lease approximately 57,000 square feet of office space at 51 Cornova Lane, Indianapolis, Indiana.

35:13

If you reload the relocate the election service center, pass out of committee 10 0.

35:18

ISO move.

35:20

The motion has been properly moved in second.

35:22

Are there comments from counselors?

35:24

CNN proceed to the board for our vote.

35:30

The proposal carries 22 to 0.

35:33

The next item on our agenda is proposal number 38, referred to Metropolitan and Economic Development Committee.

35:39

Madam Chair Jones.

35:40

Thank you, Madam President.

35:41

Proposal number 38, 2026 approves the amounts, locations, and programmatic operation of certain projects to be funded from community development grant funds.

35:51

The proposal passed out of committee by a vote of 12 to 0 with one abstention.

35:55

And Madam President, ISO move.

35:57

The motion been properly moved in second.

35:59

Comments from counselors.

36:01

CNN will proceed to the board for our votes.

36:08

The proposal carries 22 to 0.

36:11

The next item on our agenda is proposal number 39.

36:14

Refer to Metropolitan and Economic Development Committee.

36:16

Madam Chair Jones.

36:18

Thank you, Madam Chair President.

36:19

Proposal number 39, 2026, amends chapters 740, 741, and 742 of the code pertaining to flood control, stormwater management, and well fit failed secondary district of the consolidated zoning and subdivision control ordinance.

36:34

The proposal passed out of the committee by a vote of 13 to 0.

36:37

And Madam President, ISO move.

36:39

Second.

36:40

The motion is then properly moved in second.

36:42

Are there comments from counselors?

36:44

CNM, proceed to the board for our vote.

36:52

The proposal carries 22 to 0.

36:55

The next item on our agenda is proposal number 42, referred to public works committee.

36:59

Madam Chair Jones.

37:01

Thank you, Madam President.

37:02

With consent, I would like to take proposals number 42 through 45 and 47 through 40 through 56, 2026 together.

37:11

Please proceed, madam chair.

37:12

Thank you.

37:13

Proposal number 42, 2026 authorizes a speed limit reduction to 25 miles per hour in the sanctuary subdivision.

37:21

Proposal number 43, 2026 authorizes a speed limit reduction to 25 miles per hour in the Spring Valley subdivision.

37:29

Proposal number 44, 2026 authorizes a speed limit reduction to 25 miles per hour in the Brookstone Field Stone Subdivision.

37:38

Proposal number 45, 2026 authorizes a speed limit reduction to 25 miles per hour on Rybolt Avenue from Perry Street to the dead end north of Bradbury Avenue.

37:49

Proposal number 47, 2026 authorizes a speed limit reduction to 25 miles per hour in the mooring subdivision.

37:57

Proposal number 48, 2026 authorizes a weight limit restriction on Southwest Drive from Kentucky Avenue to Troy Avenue.

38:06

Proposal number 49 authorizes a speed limit reduction to 25 miles per hour in the neighborhood bounded by 16th Street, 21st Street, Sherman Drive, and Emerson Avenue.

38:16

Proposal number 50, 2026 authorizes a speed limit reduction to 25 miles per hour in the neighborhood bounded by 10th Street, 16th Street, Sherman Drive, and Emerson Avenue.

38:27

Proposal number 51, 2026 authorizes a speed limit reduction to 25 miles per hour in the neighborhood bounded by 10th Street, Pleasant Run Parkway, North Drive, CSX Transportation Right of Way, Sherman Drive, and Emerson Avenue.

38:42

Proposal number 52, 2026 authorizes a speed limit reduction to 25 miles per hour in the neighborhood bounded by 21st Street, Massachusetts Avenue, Brookside Parkway South Drive, Rural Street, and Sherman Drive.

38:55

Proposal number 53, 2026, authorizes a speed limit reduction to 25 miles per hour in the neighborhood bounded by 10th Street, Brookside Parkway drive South Drive, Rural Street, and Sherman Drive.

39:07

Proposal number 54 authorizes a speed limit reduction to 25 miles per hour in the neighborhood bounded by 10th Street, Washington Street, Rural Street, and Sherman Drive.

39:17

Proposal number 55, 2026 authorizes a speed limit reduction to 25 miles per hour in the neighborhood bounded by 10th Street, Massachusetts Avenue, I-65, and Roll Street.

39:28

Proposal number 56, 2026 authorizes a speed limit reduction to 25 miles per hour in the neighborhood bounded by 10th Street, Washington Street, I-65, and Rural Street.

39:40

The motions were made and seconded to send proposals number 42 through 45 and 47 through 56, 2026 to the full council with the due pass recommendation.

39:49

The motion carried by a vote of 11 to 0, and ISO move.

39:53

The motion has been properly moved and second.

39:55

Comments from counselors.

39:57

Councilor Brown.

40:00

Thank you.

40:00

Madam President.

40:02

I just want to say a quick thank you to Chairwoman Jones and all my colleagues who stay up on the public works committee.

40:07

First off, that took forever just to read all the speed limit reductions in my district.

40:10

I know that's not the first time you've had to do that.

40:12

Um thanks for allowing these to go through.

40:14

Umlike uh many parents, I don't have subdivisions in my um district, and so there's a lot of cross streets, 16th to 10th, uh 21st, and we get a lot of cross traffic going extremely quickly down residential streets.

40:27

Um, I know we're doing a lot of work as a body on the Visions Air Task Force with a lot more substantive work than simply reducing speed limits, but I do think that this step will save lives, and so genuinely wanted to send my thanks to all of you.

40:40

Appreciate it.

40:41

Counselor Bain.

40:42

Thank you, Madam President.

40:43

Uh, just wanted to thank Department of Public Works and Chairwoman Jones uh with her help on getting proposal 48 to where it is.

40:51

Uh it's the weight limit restriction on Southwest Drive, which um is a neighborhood that's tucked between two busy uh thoroughfares, and there's an elementary school in there.

40:59

A lot of kids walk to school, and we have a lot of semi-traffic that seems to go through there with complete disregard to kids who are going to school.

41:08

So this is a um a welcome change.

41:11

Appreciate everyone's support.

41:13

Thank you.

41:13

Additional comments, CNN proceed to the board for our vote.

41:22

The proposals carry 22 to 0.

41:25

The next item on our agenda is proposal number 46 46, refer to public works committee.

41:30

Madam Chair Jones.

41:31

Thank you, Madam President.

41:33

With consent, I would like to take proposals number 46 and number 57, 2026 together.

41:38

Please proceed.

41:40

Thank you.

41:40

Proposal number 46 authorizes parking restrictions on East 10th Street between College and Highland Avenues.

41:47

Proposal number 57, 2026 authorizes parking restrictions on Brookville Road on both sides from Irvington Avenue to a point 750 feet east of Short Ridge Road.

41:58

Counselor Bain moved, seconded by Councilor Gibson to send proposals number 46 and 57 2026 to the full council with the due pass recommendation.

42:07

The motion carried by a vote of 12 to 0 and I so move.

42:10

The motion and properly moved and seconded.

42:12

Are there comments from counselors?

42:14

Councilor Hart.

42:16

Thank you, Madam President.

42:17

I'll be real brief on proposal 57.

42:19

Just want to say thank you to uh colleagues here and and and committee as well as um ask your support tonight this evening.

42:26

Um got support from Councillor Nielsen on this.

42:28

This does go through both of our districts.

42:30

Um it's just a habitual problem that is in relation to warehousing.

42:33

So uh a lot of a lot of trucks parking on Brookville Road and getting a lot of calls from the neighbors ultimately try to solve this uh operationally through the city, and it it just hasn't been working.

42:43

So trying to take these extra steps, and I think this can get us a lot closer to where we need to be.

42:47

So I appreciate the support this evening.

42:50

Thank you.

42:50

Council Hart additional comments.

42:52

CNN proceed to the board for our vote.

43:06

Councilor Gibson.

43:09

Thank you.

43:10

The proposals carry 22 to zero.

43:12

There is no business under special service district council.

43:16

There is no business under new business.

43:18

We'll now proceed to announcements and adjournments.

43:22

Madam President.

43:23

The docket agenda for this meeting of the council being completed.

43:28

Madam President.

43:29

The Chair recognizes Leader Maori.

43:32

Madam President, I've been asked to offer the following motion for adjournment by all counselors in memory of Officer Brian Elliott.

43:39

By all counselors in memory of Berness Hood, by Councilor Wells, memory of David Davis, by Councillor Barth, memory of Douglas E.

43:47

Lynn Smith and Virginia, Jenny Fox Hardigan by Counselors Lewis, Gibson, and Graves in memory of Sergeant Irma Jean Andrews by Councillor Lewis in memory of William Eugene Duggar by Councilor Roberts in memory of Sherry Jones by Councillor Osley in memory of Catherine Ross, David Goss, Frank Wilkins, and Jesse Moore.

44:13

By Councillor Graves in memory of Cheryl Jackson Newsom.

44:16

Madam President, I would like to move the adjournment of this meeting of the Indianapolis City County Council in recognition of and respect for the life and contributions of those persons I have here specifically named.

44:26

I respectfully ask the support of fellow counselors.

44:28

I further request the motion be made a part of the permanent records of this body and that a letter bearing the seal, the council seal and the signature of the president be sent to the family of each person advising of this action.

44:39

Thank you, Leader.

44:40

Hearing no objection, the motion is received, and the requests are so ordered.

44:43

Hearing no further motions, we are adjourned.

Discussion Breakdown — Share of Meeting
Procedural██████████████████████████████████34%
Public Safety███████████████████████████████31%
Public Works█████████9%
Elections███████7%
Youth Programs████4%
Personnel Matters████4%
Public Engagement████4%
Affordable Housing████4%
Environmental Protection███3%
Summary of Proceedings

City County Council Meeting Summary - March 2, 2026

The City County Council convened on Monday, March 2, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. (transcript notes date as March 2, though opening remarks initially stated March 7, correcting to March 2 for the official date). The meeting opened with a prayer led by Councillor Gibson and the Pledge of Allegiance. Key agenda items included the recognition of 40 years of service by Fire Chief Ernest Malone and Voices Corporation, the approval of several mayoral appointments, rezoning cases, and public hearings regarding housing appropriations and data center impacts. The session concluded with a collective adjournment in honor of several community members.

Consent Calendar

  • Approved General Ordinance No. 22, 2026, and General Resolutions 1–4, 2026.
  • Adopted Special Resolution No. 4, 2026, recognizing 40 years of service by IFD Chief Ernest Malone (Vote: 22-0).
  • Adopted Special Resolution recognizing Voices Corporation (Vote: 22-0).
  • Approved Proposal No. 34: Appointment of Christopher L. Bailey as Chief Deputy Mayor (Vote: 22-0).
  • Approved Proposal No. 37: Appointment of Rory Babb to the Woodruff Place Economic Improvement Board (Vote: 22-0).
  • Approved Proposal No. 67: Appointment of Tanya B. Terry as Chief of Police for Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (Note: Transcript states "Napoleon's" but context implies Indianapolis; Vote: 22-0).
  • Withdrawed Proposal No. 9 regarding Robert Hamley by unanimous vote (14)
  • Approved Proposal No. 35: Lease of 57,000 sq ft for Marion County Election Board (Vote: 22-0).
  • Approved Proposal No. 38: Funding for community development grant projects (Vote: 22-0).
  • Approved Proposal No. 39: Amendments to flood control and zoning codes (Vote: 22-0).
  • Approved Proposals 42–45 and 47–56: Speed limit reductions to 25 mph in various subdivisions (Vote: 22-0).
  • Approved Proposals 46 and 57: Parking restrictions on East 10th Street and Brookville Road (Vote: 22-0).
  • Accepted reports for Proposals No. 13 and 41 regarding union agreement fiscal impacts.

Public Comments & Testimony

  • Speaker (Decatur Township resident): Expressed strong opposition to the proposed data center development in Decatur Township, citing a lack of zoning definitions for data centers and the potential for over 100 Tier 2 diesel generators to operate near residential homes. The speaker argued that this development would violate the net-zero emissions goal and that the community lacks representation. The speaker explicitly called for a moratorium on data centers until new ordinances are crafted.
  • Speaker (Councillor Gibson): Expressed support for the housing funding proposal (Proposal 8), though initially interrupted the public comment to steer the discussion back to the specific subject matter (housing vs. data centers).

Discussion Items

  • Proposal No. 8 (Housing Appropriation): Approved an additional $2,840,000 appropriation for the Department of Metropolitan Development to fund Section 108 debt and permanent supportive housing. A public hearing was held to address concerns regarding nearby data center developments, with the speaker from Decatur Township emphasizing the environmental and zoning risks associated with data centers.
  • Proposal No. 10 (Coroner Funding): Approved $65,000 for the Marion County Coroner Office for the "First Indiana Initiative Grant Project" and documentary series participation.
  • Speed Limit Reductions: Extensive discussion occurred regarding a batch of 13 proposals (42–45, 47–56) reducing speed limits to 25 mph in residential neighborhoods. Councillor Brown commended the public works committee for their work on safety, noting the need to address cross-traffic speeds in the district. Councillor Bain commended the effort to reduce weight limits on Southwest Drive to protect an elementary school neighborhood. Councillor Hart noted that parking restrictions on Brookville Road were necessary to address habitual truck parking issues stemming from warehousing operations.

Key Outcomes

  • Proposal 8: Passed 22-0. Funding approved for permanent supportive housing.
  • Proposal 10: Passed 22-0. Funding approved for Coroner Office initiative.
  • Proposal 13 & 41: Accepted reports regarding fiscal impact statements for firefighter and police union agreements; no further action required.
  • Proposals 34, 35, 37, 38, 39, 67: All passed unanimously (22-0), covering mayoral appointments, leases, and zoning amendments.
  • Proposals 42–57: All passed unanimously (22-0), implementing speed limit and parking restrictions across multiple districts.
  • Adjournment: Meeting adjourned in memory of Officer Brian Elliott, Berness Hood, David Davis, Douglas E. Lynn Smith, Jenny Fox Hardigan, Sergeant Irma Jean Andrews, William Eugene Duggar, Sherry Jones, Catherine Ross, Frank Wilkins, Jesse Moore, and Cheryl Jackson Newsom.

Meeting Transcript

Good evening. I will now call to order the City County Council meeting for Monday, March 7th. It's March 2nd, 2026. We'll begin with a prayer pledge of allegiance led by Counselor Gibson. Would you all please join me in prayer? I know there's a lot going on in the world right now, and uh award that uh there's a lot of division about and in support for, but uh thank God we live in America and I I thank God that we're all Americans. So uh join me in prayer. Deputy Father, I uh thank you for this privilege, this privilege of serving this chamber with these fine individuals. I want to first think about uh all levels of our government, God in the name of Jesus. I pray for our mayor, Mayor Joe Hogsett, continue to lead God and show him and his entire team to do what's best for the people in Indianapolis. Also want to lift up the judicial branch, God, uh make sure they are handling justice swiftly. And God, I pray that you lift up the members that I serve with in this council, God. We'll make a lot of hard decisions, and they're not easy. We may have opposition support, but we try to do the best thing that we can do for direction of our people. I want to lift up uh councilwoman um president, Maggie Lewis and her husband, and the passing of her father-in-law. I pray you'll continue to strengthen their family. God, we ask that every person who lives in Naples that we do the will and create what you desired in our hearts and command us to do, God, and that's to love, love one another. In Jesus' name we pray, amen. Join me to pledge allegiance. I pledge allegiance to the flag, the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Thank you, Councillor Gibson. Would all counselors select the green button to indicate your attendance. We have a public council that has to be excused this evening, Councilor Armee, Council Nelson, and Sherman, hopefully. Next time I'm on our condition. Can you hear me now? Yes. Uh-huh. Madam President. Yes. Can I make a quick uh acknowledgement too? To uh Boy Scouts Troop 446. Uh, they're doing their local government uh meeting tonight, and I appreciate them for coming out seeing government in action and very much appreciate them for coming out tonight majority leader. Thank you, madam president. I just wanted to acknowledge uh friends and former constituents from Decatur Township who I know who are in the audience uh showing their freedom of speech tonight on their uh proposed data center coming before their district. Thank you all for being here, and I think we've also got some friends and from uh the Ewell Creek area concerned about Eagle Creek and the elite project as well. So thank you all for coming downtown. I know it's difficult. Additional introductions. The next item on our agenda is the official communications. Madam Clerk. Thank you, Madam President. Ladies and gentlemen, you are hereby notified the regular meetings of the City County Council, police, fire, and solid waste collection special service district councils will be held in the city county building in the public assembly room on Monday, March 2nd, 2026 at 7 o'clock p.m. The purposes of such meetings being to conduct any and all business that may properly come before regular meetings of the council. Sincerely, Maggie A. Lewis, President City County Council. Ladies and gentlemen, pursuant to the laws of the state of Indiana, I call to be published in the Court and Commercial Record and in the Indianapolis Star on Friday, February 6, 2026. A copy of notice of public hearing on proposal numbers 13 and 41, 2026, said hearing to be held on Tuesday, February 24th, 2026, at 530 p.m. in the public assembly room of the City County Building, and a copy of notice of public hearing for proposals numbers 8 and 10, 2026, said hearing to be held Monday, March 2nd, 2026, at 7 o'clock p.m. in the public assembly room of the City County Building. On Friday, February 27, 2026, a copy of public notice, notice of public hearing on proposal number 68, 2026, said hearing to be held on Monday, March 9th, 2026 at 530 p.m.

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