The New Albany Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) met on August 4, 2026, at 10:30 AM to hear three dockets: two special exception requests and one request to modify conditions of a prior approval. All five board members were present, and a minimum of three affirmative votes was required to carry any motion. Public Comments & Testimony - Docket B 1726 (Accessory Dwelling Unit): A neighboring resident who has lived on the block for 50 years spoke in opposition, describing the accessory structure as "the ugliest looking thing you can think of" and stating it does not fit the neighborhood of single-family homes. The resident noted the structure appeared to be converted from a garage and lacked proper landscaping. Discussion Items - Docket B 1726 – Phonias Morius, special exception for accessory dwelling unit at 2401 Fairmont Avenue: The applicant's representative, King Lynx, stated the structure originally existed on the property before purchase, was occupied by homeless persons, and has been renovated. He argued the special exception meets the comprehensive plan's goal of housing diversity and noted the Planning Commission recommended approval 7-1 on June 16, 2026. The applicant intended the unit for temporary stays by the owner or guests, not as a full-time rental. Staff reported that only an electrical permit was pulled for storage purposes, no certificate of occupancy was issued, no sewer tap was verified, and the property is not owner-occupied—contrary to the comprehensive plan's vision for ADUs. Staff also noted a history of attempts to circumvent the city's moratorium on multifamily housing, including misleading statements about dual electric meters and a Zillow advertisement for the unit. Staff recommended denial, citing lack of safety inspections and failure to meet special exception criteria. The board discussed whether conditions could remedy safety concerns, but ultimately found the applicant's pattern of non-compliance and the absence of owner occupancy weighed against approval. A motion to deny was made and seconded. - Docket B 1926 – Adam Haley Roar, special exception for single-family dwelling at 4460 Kmer Miller Road: Leslie Woods, representing the applicant, explained that the lot (2.56 acres) was created via a subdivision approved in June 2024. The home would be located away from steep slopes and maintain significant tree canopy; a shared driveway would be used. Staff summarized that the Planning Commission recommended approval on July 21, 2026, and staff found no detrimental impact to public health, safety, or welfare, with minimal lot coverage (4% vs. 35% maximum). Staff recommended four stipulations: use of a shared 30-foot easement, approval of curb cut by Floyd County Commissioners, dustproof paving for parking/circulation, coordination with county engineer for drainage, and submission of final site and elevation plans. The board discussed the site plan and cleared area; no public comments were heard. A motion to approve with staff stipulations was made and seconded. - Docket B 823 – Zershmi Properties, modification of condition for timber harvest special exception: The applicant, Kevin, explained that a previous approval for timber harvest restricted the use of semi-trucks. The original logger failed to perform, and a new logger began hauling lighter loads (not fully loaded semis) without realizing the restriction. The applicant requested removal of the "no semi" condition, stating trucks would be loaded on-site, not on the road, and only every other day or so. Staff noted that using a semi would reduce the number of trips compared to a straight truck. The board discussed potential road damage and safety concerns (blocking emergency vehicles), but the applicant clarified the semi would back into a staging area off the road. The board agreed to approve modification subject to the applicant being responsible for any damage to city infrastructure and staff documenting existing road conditions. A motion to amend stipulation 9 was made and seconded. Key Outcomes - Docket B 1726 (Special Exception for Accessory Dwelling Unit): Denied. The motion carried unanimously (5-0) on the basis that the application met none of the three criteria for a special exception: avoidance of traffic congestion, ensuring safety from hazards (lack of permits and inspections), and avoidance of adverse effects on neighboring properties. - Docket B 1926 (Special Exception for Single-Family Dwelling): Approved with the four stipulations from staff. The motion carried unanimously. - Docket B 823 (Modification of Timber Harvest Condition): Approved to allow semi-truck use, with the condition that the applicant is responsible for any damage to city roads and that staff documents existing road conditions. The motion carried unanimously. The meeting adjourned after the final vote.
Public Meetings - New Albany, Indiana
Public Meetings - New Albany, IndianaThe New Albany Common Council held its regular meeting on Monday, August 3, 2026, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers at City Hall. The meeting was called to order by President Adam Dickey with a moment of silent prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance. Roll call showed eight members present (Phipps, Gohmann, Blair, Griffith, Murphy, Unruh, Dickey) and two absent (Collier, Fitzgerald), establishing a quorum. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The council voted unanimously (motion by Elaine Murphy, second by Greg Phipps) to approve the Public Hearing Minutes and Regular Meeting Minutes from July 16, 2026, as a slate. Communications & Announcements - Councilmember Louise Gohmann: Announced several community events including a Floyd County Health Department/Love Unlimited campout for donations (drop-off at old Kroger on Grant Line Road on August 7 from 5-7 PM and August 8 from 12-2 PM), a Hope Southern Indiana food drive (August 15, 9 AM-12 PM), and a back-to-school block party at Grant Line Road (August 8, 10 AM-1 PM, with music, free food, and inflatables). Also reminded the public about financial assistance for feral cat population control via publicvet.com and urged caution as schools open. - Councilmember Scott Blair: Updated that he and Louise Gohmann are working on an ordinance for the treatment of animals in retail stores, in response to advocacy by Mindy Johnson (Southern Indiana Animal Welfare Watchdogs). They are reviewing similar ordinances from Jeffersonville and Clarksville and plan to meet with the city attorney after the meeting. The ordinance may be introduced in committee soon. - Councilmember Stefanie Griffith: Thanked Mrs. Glodzbach for sharing information about free downtown parking; clarified that while some private lots are converting to paid lots, the city does not operate paid lots and the garage remains free. She emphasized that downtown parking is still affordable compared to other cities like Boston and Philadelphia. - Councilmember Elaine Murphy: Reminded drivers to watch for children and new drivers as school starts, and recognized National Purple Heart Day (August 7) thanking service members injured in the line of duty. - Councilmember Don Unruh: Announced library events including the end of the summer reading program, an outdoor book sale (August 8, 8 AM-12 PM), and a financial literacy seminar (Credit 101) on August 6 from 1-2 PM. Also noted the start of fall sports practices, New Albany High School’s first football game on August 21 against Providence, and welcomed new head football coach Mark Clark. - President Adam Dickey: Echoed back-to-school safety reminders, noted ongoing work on a stormwater presentation update for the next meeting, and mentioned coordinating budget hearing schedules with the city clerk (Linda Shane). He also flagged a fast turnaround between the two September council meetings. Administrative Items - One Southern Indiana Presentation: President Dickey requested and received unanimous consent to schedule the annual One Southern Indiana presentation for one of the next two council meetings. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved (unanimous). - One Southern Indiana presentation scheduled (date TBD at future meeting). - Ordinance for treatment of animals in retail stores under development; council will meet with city attorney to advance the proposal. - No public comments, no ordinances, resolutions, board appointments, or committee reports were presented. - Meeting adjourned by unanimous vote (motion by Murphy, second by Phipps).
The New Albany Redevelopment Commission held its regular meeting on July 28, 2026. Commissioners present were Terry Middleton, Bob Norwood, Daniel Guest, Jenny Collier, and Adam Dick (four present). The meeting included approval of prior minutes, a notice to bidders for the Maryland Avenue Community Center, a claims worksheet, updates on ARPA expenditures, and upcoming community events. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the July 14, 2026 meeting without discussion. - Claims Worksheet: A motion to approve the claims worksheet passed unanimously. The worksheet included fees paid to Norfolk Southern for coordination on either the Monarch South Freedom Trail or the East Six Street sidewalks projects. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public provided comments. Discussion Items - Maryland Avenue Community Center – Notice to Bidders: The commission received information about the Notice to Bidders, published in the News and Tribune on July 23 and July 30, 2026. Bids are due Tuesday, August 11, 2026 at 11:30 AM, and will be opened at the commission’s 12:00 PM meeting that day. The project manager reported that the schedule remains on track, funding was moved from ARPA to CDBG-eligible status for more timeline flexibility, and Tower Easter continues to assist with design. - American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) – Second Quarter 2026 Report: The commission reviewed the quarterly report, noting that approximately 99% of ARPA funds had been expended and that full expenditure is expected by the end of 2026. Members commended the administration and Mayor Dahan for effective use of the funds. - Upcoming Ribbon Cuttings and Events: The commission noted several upcoming events: an Emerson ribbon cutting (date not specified), the Parthenon ribbon cutting on August 7, 2026, the fair on August 10, 2026 for completion of a neon sign (partnership with Mall Vene Street), and a dedication of the clock at the former J.O. Anders location to Bob Caesar on Friday, July 31, 2026 at 6:00 PM. Key Outcomes - Approved the July 14, 2026 minutes and the claims worksheet by voice votes. - No additional motions or resolutions were adopted. The meeting adjourned without further business.
The Board of Public Works & Safety met on July 28, 2026, at New Albany City Hall; the agenda listed a 10:00 a.m. start. The board approved multiple encroachment permits, a dumpster request, a wastewater repair, and a revised traffic-control plan. Two requests were deferred. Unless otherwise noted, all votes were unanimous. Public Comments & Testimony - No unscheduled public comments were made. Scheduled applicants, consultants, and city staff addressed the board during the business agenda. Discussion Items - CenterPoint Energy gas main and services: The board approved an encroachment permit to retire and replace gas mains on Oak Street between E. 3rd and E. 4th Streets, at E. Oak Street and Bank Street, and at E. Oak Street at the alley between Bank and Pearl Streets. The board also approved new gas service to 319 and 321 E. Main Street. - Sean Fore dumpster at 1822 Conservative: The board noted that the applicant did not provide a placement plan or dates and that the rear of the property appeared unsuitable. Approval was made subject to the applicant supplying the dumpster company and dates. - CenterPoint emergency gas repair at 1916 Beeler Street: Approved emergency repair/replacement of the gas service, including cuts in the intersection and sidewalk. - Vertical borings at E. Spring Street, Beharrell Avenue, and Providence Way: The agenda credits Alex Dodson of SME; the transcript presenter was Aaron Sutherland of Prime AE, speaking on behalf of SME geotech. Sutherland described nine soil borings: six in Spring Street, one in Providence Way, one in North Beharrell, and one in South Beharrell. Work was proposed for August 11-12, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., with August 13 as a weather/delay backup. The board asked Sutherland to confirm access with the adjacent business; he had not personally contacted it. Approved. - AT&T fiber installation via Broadband of Indiana (BOI): Mike Boone of BOI requested permits for fiber optic underground and aerial work around 203-205 W. Market Street, from Washington Place to Bank Street and from Elm Street to Main Street. Board approval was conditioned on AT&T maintaining cabinets and restoration, no unapproved road closures, coordination with businesses, and addressing an overlashing/pole issue near Main Street so the planned pole removal is not blocked. Boone said AT&T wanted to start sooner than the October 5-January 2027 estimated dates. - Oak Street traffic-control changes: CJ Ransom of Dan Christiani requested approval to modify traffic control for the Oak Street project. The contractor arranged to cross private property with permission to avoid moving heavy equipment on Pearl and Culver. The plan called for closing Pearl at the Oak intersection for about two weeks while curb and asphalt were installed, a soft closure on Bank for approximately 45 days for emergency vehicles, then a full closure for pipe work, and 45-60 days of Oak Street work between Oak and Bank. The board approved and asked the crew to monitor detour signs and keep the board informed about relocating the post office mailbox. - Second Opinion Plumbing item at 1621: No action was taken because the applicant had not responded to follow-up and did not appear. Communications - City Officials - Special event permit: Krystina Jarboe (listed on the agenda; the transcript identifies the speaker as "Christina Darwin") deferred a special event permit for the Arts Alliance of SoIN Monarch Fest, scheduled for September 11-12, until Brian Bell arrived. No vote was taken. - Handicap parking at 726 Lincoln Street: Mickey Thompson, listed for Rowena Longworth, asked to defer the request to unfinished business because the site had not been inspected and eligibility was unconfirmed. - Wastewater lateral repair at 110 Greenaway Place: Approved. The crew planned to start the following morning at 8 a.m. and expected the work to take 6-7 hours, with an alley detour if needed. The board requested that loud work wait until about 9 a.m. because the area is residential. - Curb cut at 511 E. 7th Street: Approved for the alley behind the car wash to create additional parking, after review through planning/zoning and the building commissioner's office. - Street and trail updates: City staff reported continuing striping on State Street and Grantline Road, milling and patching on St. Joe Road, milling of Scribner and the new police lot on July 31 with paving expected early the following week, and Eakin Avenue milling next week if weather permits. The trail project is continuing with curb/sidewalk work between Market and Spring streets, excavation between Spring and Elm, and fence and paver installation. Key Outcomes - Approved all CenterPoint encroachment/gas requests, the dumpster request, the vertical-boring permit, the AT&T/BOI fiber permit, the Oak Street traffic-control revision, the wastewater lateral repair, and the 511 E. 7th Street curb cut. - Deferred the Monarch Fest special event permit and the 726 Lincoln Street handicap parking request. - Approved the July 21, 2026 regular meeting minutes at the end of the meeting.
The Storm Water Board of New Albany, Indiana, met on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at 10:00 AM in Room 100 of City Hall. The meeting included routine approvals, staff reports, and claims processing. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (July 9, 2026): Motion made and seconded to approve minutes as presented. The motion passed with a voice vote. - Approval of Claims (July 9–22, 2026): A list of claims totaling $44,549.20 was presented. Motion to approve as presented carried unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No comments from the public. Discussion Items - Stormwater Director’s Report (Phillip Aldridge): Staff are currently cleaning brush and debris at a creek in Ford Park; the work is expected to take a few more days. - QPI Inspections Report (Westley Fair): Mr. Fair was absent due to a dental appointment (toothache); the report was deferred to the next meeting. - Financial Report (Ed Wilkinson): Billing for the past month was reported as $50,330. No other changes were noted. Key Outcomes - The minutes from July 9, 2026, were approved. - Claims totaling $44,549.20 were approved for payment. - The meeting was adjourned without any new or old business.
The New Albany Sewer Board met on July 23, 2026, at 9:15 a.m. in City Hall. The board approved the minutes from the previous meeting, discussed a request for an encroachment permit from Holy Family School, approved a sewer adjustment, received financial and utility reports, and approved claims. All actions were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes from the July 9, 2026 regular meeting. - Approved a sewer adjustment for Carl Durbin in the amount of $1,753.34 for a leak at 705 Pearl Street that affected three billing cycles. - Approved claims totaling $676,294.59 for the period July 9–22, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - A representative from Holy Family School presented a request for an encroachment permit to build an open-air shelter/outdoor classroom. The proposed location conflicted with a sanitary sewer line that only serves the school, making it a private service. The board recommended moving the structure off the sewer line (by approximately 10 feet or more) to avoid future issues, but approved the permit with conditions: the city assumes no responsibility for the structure, and the school must provide a written agreement acknowledging liability for any repairs or damage. Discussion Items - Sewer Adjustment: The board approved a $1,753.34 adjustment for Carl Durbin due to a leak on the water service main line. The landlord worked with tenants to obtain information, causing a delay. - Financial Report: Monthly billing was $1,142,000, which is within the budget bracket. - Utility Report: Mike Wallace reported no violations at the plant or in the system for April 2026. DLD was in town lining 22 manholes (previously approved) and expected to finish that day. The plant passed its last inspection. The UV actuator replacement was still pending, with delivery expected within a week or two. Key Outcomes - Approved the Holy Family School encroachment permit with a recommendation to relocate the structure off the sewer line and conditions of city non-liability and school responsibility. - Approved the sewer adjustment for Carl Durbin. - Approved the claims as presented. - No old business or tabled items were discussed.
The Board of Public Works & Safety met on July 21, 2026, at 10:00 AM at New Albany City Hall. The meeting addressed several permit requests, utility repairs, a fiber optic encroachment permit, special events, and administrative items. Public Comments & Testimony - John Kraft (attorney for Al Cardoso) requested a second curb cut at 2700 Kaywood Drive to accommodate five vehicles. The Board of Zoning Appeals had tabled the variance and directed the applicant to the Board of Public Works first. The motion to approve included conditions: residential use only, not for storage, and installation of a hard surface within one year. Approved unanimously. - Pat Hauersperger (Dave O’Mara Contractors) presented multiple IAWC water infrastructure repair permits: 619 E. Oak St. (sidewalk cut), 210 E. Elm St. (valve box repair), 730 Rolling Creek Dr. (hydrant/valve replacement), and additional items at 606 Captain Frank St., 608 Pearl St., and 4000 Melbourne Dr. All approved. - Mr. Padilla (Your Home Roofing) requested a street and sidewalk closure at 302 Pearl Street to replace flashing using a 35-foot boom lift. Approved for Friday 8 AM to 4 PM and Saturday 1 PM to 6 PM with proper signage, avoiding the farmer's market on Saturday morning. - Cecubly, a resident at 1926 Eakin Avenue, requested a dumpster drop-off blocking street parking for a few days. Approved. - Tim Phillips (Lumos Fiber) presented the encroachment permit for fiber installation in the Klerner Lane, Rainbow Drive, and Mt. Tabor Road areas. Discussion included yard darts and door hangers with a direct contact number for the construction manager, restoration improvements, and language barriers. Motion to approve contingent upon receiving final versions of communication notifications to residents. Carried. Discussion Items - Krystina Jarboe presented a special event permit for ORSANCO’s annual River Sweep on Saturday, September 12, requesting use of the amphitheater stage, restrooms, and a city-placed dumpster along the old boat ramp. Approved. - Larry (city official) gave a paving update: patching on State and Grant Line Road completed; striping upcoming; concrete work on Eakin Avenue; milling on Scrippner next Friday and paving beginning August 3. - Larry reported on TARC route changes: the city requested data on decision-making but has not received it; TARC replaced signs on unchanged route segments without Board approval. Planning director Scott confirmed no consultation. The Board was informed but took no action. - Mickey Thompson requested a dumpster at 18 Robin Road for Allen Moeller. Approved. - The controller provided bank reconciliations for March and April 2026, noted for the minutes. Key Outcomes - Approved second curb cut at 2700 Kaywood Drive with conditions (residential use, hard surface within one year). - Approved all IAWC street cut and sidewalk repair permits. - Approved street and sidewalk closure for roof repair at 302 Pearl Street on Friday and Saturday with time restrictions. - Approved dumpster for 1926 Eakin Avenue. - Approved Lumos Fiber encroachment permit contingent on final communication notifications. - Approved special event permit for ORSANCO River Sweep. - Approved dumpster at 18 Robin Road. - Approved claims totaling $3,813,587.88 for July 7–20, 2026, and an ARP claim of $654.60.
The New Albany City Plan Commission met on July 21, 2026, at 10:30 AM. Nine members were present, requiring a minimum of six votes to carry motions. The meeting included one public hearing and two public meeting items, all of which were approved unanimously. The commission also approved the minutes from the June 16 and June 23 meetings. Public Hearing Items - Docket C726 – New Albany Floyd County School Corporation requested preliminary and secondary plat approval for a two-lot subdivision in a mixed density residential district at 1464 Slate Run Road. The school corporation plans to demolish an existing house, construct a 1,460-square-foot single-family home on a slab using student labor from five construction programs (heavy equipment, electrical, HVAC, construction trades, and plumbing), and sell the completed home. The second lot (southern parcel) will be retained for future school needs. A storage building on the property may remain if the buyer desires. Staff recommended approval with a condition that the plat be formatted per the subdivision control ordinance and a 30-day moratorium before recording. A potential easement vacation issue was noted, which would require City Council action. The motion to approve passed unanimously (all ayes, no opposed, no abstentions). Public Meeting Items - Docket P6-00 – Take Five Carolina LLC requested a secondary planned unit development (PUD) amendment to permit an automotive oil change business at 4222 Charlestown Road, adjacent to a Meyer gas station. The original PUD approved in 2000 did not include automotive uses. Staff recommended approval, noting the property is over-parked and the use is compatible with the nearby gas station. The motion to approve passed unanimously. - Docket B1926 – Adam and Haley Roar requested a special exception to permit a single-family dwelling in a low-density residential steep slope district at 446 Timber Miller Road. The 2.5-acre lot was created via a minor plat approved in June 2024. The applicant plans to build a home on relatively flat terrain, with the steep slope areas largely conserved. Staff recommended favorable recommendation to the Board of Zoning Appeals, finding the proposal consistent with the comprehensive plan and unlikely to cause adverse impacts. The motion to send the docket favorably to the Board of Zoning Appeals passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Judy Radis (1589 Eastwood Avenue, adjacent property owner) expressed concern about potential encroachment on her property. The applicant and commission clarified that the construction would not affect her land. She stated she was satisfied with the assurance. Key Outcomes - Docket C726 (school corporation subdivision): Approved unanimously with conditions regarding plat formatting and 30-day moratorium. - Docket P6-00 (PUD amendment for oil change business): Approved unanimously, final action by the Plan Commission. - Docket B1926 (special exception for steep slope dwelling): Approved unanimously to forward favorably to the Board of Zoning Appeals. - Minutes: Approved for June 16 and June 23, 2026, with one abstention noted for the June 16 minutes.
The New Albany Common Council met on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers. The meeting covered approval of tax abatement compliance forms, a vacation-of-public-way ordinance (tabled pending litigation), final passage of opioid settlement fund usage and a data center moratorium, and a resolution for tourism funds for Silver Street Park turf fields. Council members also heard public comments on animal welfare and other topics. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda & Minutes: The agenda for the regular session of June 18 (noted as a discrepancy with the agenda listing July 7 minutes) was approved 8-0-1 (Collier abstaining). No minutes were available in the packet. - CF-1 Forms (Tax Abatement Compliance): A slate of 26 CF-1 forms was approved 8-0-1 (Dickey abstaining) with a friendly amendment requesting written explanations from four companies (Clark Foods, Logandarby, MP Global, PAAR) that fell short of employment projections. Council discussed the need for accountability and better tracking. Public Comments & Testimony - Z-26-03 (Vacation of Public Way – Robert Wheat): Several residents spoke in favor of vacating the alley, citing safety, tree preservation, and Mr. Daniels’ long-term maintenance. Patrick Wynn objected to the vacation. Attorney Justin Anders argued the council lacked discretion under state statute (IC 36-7-3-13B) because no other convenient ingress/egress existed, and that the petition was an attempt to overturn the Plan Commission’s plat approval. - Z-26-02 (Data Center Moratorium): Patricia Wynn spoke against data centers, citing environmental and noise concerns. David McOwan supported the moratorium, noting similar actions in other states. - Non-Agenda Items: Mindy Johnson (Southern Indiana Animal Welfare Watchdogs) urged inclusion of specific animal welfare provisions in the city’s animal ordinance, including cage size, water access, veterinary care, and enforcement authority. Discussion Items - Stormwater & Infrastructure Update: Council members acknowledged recent heavy rain events (described as a 1,000-year storm) and thanked city crews. President Dickey suggested scheduling a future stormwater department update. - Youth Council Applications: The application period was extended to encourage more high school students (5 positions available). - Opioid Settlement Funds (A-26-03): Council member Collier introduced an ordinance appropriating $15,000 to Hope Southern Indiana for food pantry support, filling a gap left by library pantry changes. The ordinance was described as a “band-aid” solution. - Data Center Moratorium (Z-26-02): The one-year moratorium (unanimous committee and plan commission recommendations) was discussed. Council members debated potential impacts on existing businesses needing server rooms vs. large-scale data centers. Director Wood stated the plan commission would prioritize zoning updates and hoped to bring a draft to council by September. - Silver Street Park Turf Fields (R-26-02): Council member Murphy introduced a resolution requesting $250,000 from the Clark-Floyd Counties Convention & Tourism Bureau toward a $2 million project for synthetic turf fields, auxiliary buildings, and restrooms. The project will also support lacrosse and other sports. Key Outcomes - Motion to Table Z-26-03 (Vacation of Public Way) Passed 5-4: The council voted to table the vacation ordinance pending resolution of a related lawsuit challenging the preliminary plat approval. City attorney Manning advised potential legal exposure if action were taken while litigation is active. The matter will return upon her recommendation. - A-26-03 (Opioid Settlement Funds) – Third Reading Passed Unanimously: The ordinance designating $15,000 for Hope Southern Indiana became ordinance A-26-08. - Z-26-02 (Data Center Moratorium) – Third Reading Passed Unanimously: The temporary moratorium (effective one year) became ordinance Z-26-09. - R-26-02 (Tourism Funds for Silver Street Park) – Resolution Passed Unanimously: The resolution authorizes the city to request $250,000 from the tourism bureau. The bond issuance is expected to close by late August. - Public Works Committee Referral: Z-26-03 (first reading earlier) was formally referred to the Public Works Committee after introduction. Note on Discrepancy The agenda listed approval of minutes for July 7, 2026, but the transcript refers to approval of the agenda for a regular session of June 18. No minutes were available in the packet, and the council proceeded with the approval as stated.
On July 16, 2026, the New Albany City Council held a public hearing on ordinance Z 2603, a petition filed by Robert Wheat to vacate a 102-year-old platted alley. The hearing was part of the regular council session, following a committee meeting of the public works committee. The council heard from the petitioner’s representative, the project developer’s attorney, and a community member. Public Comments & Testimony - Justin Andres (attorney, 126 West Spring Street, on behalf of Discovery Developers) opposed the vacation. He argued that Discovery Developers holds a vested right to the alley as part of a preliminary plat approved by the Plan Commission on November 18, 2025. He stated that the vacation would cut off ingress/egress and that state statute requires denial when no other convenient means of access exists. He noted that opponents failed to timely appeal the Plan Commission’s approval within the 30-day statutory period and filed a late declaratory judgment action in February 2026, which is pending. - Dean Wheat (2033 DePaul Avenue, on behalf of the petitioner Robert Wheat and neighbor George Daniels) supported the vacation. He explained that the alley has never been developed, that George Daniels has maintained the area (including two 90-year-old trees) for 47 years, and that the city has never cared for it. He questioned why Discovery Developers was involved, asserting the alley is a city issue. He claimed the preliminary plat approval itself notes the property lies in a flood zone (citing FIRM number 48 C 0141E), contradicting a prior statement by city planner Scott Woods during a January 15, 2026 meeting that the site was not in a flood zone. He passed around a document to support this. - Tom Bailey (1131 Burton, a recent resident of New Albany) spoke against cutting down the two large trees, emphasizing their beauty and the neighborhood’s investment in yards and trees. Discussion Items - The primary topic was whether to approve the vacation of the alley, which provides access to a proposed development by Discovery Developers. The petitioner argued the alley is unused and maintained by the adjacent property owner, while the developer’s attorney claimed a vested right and that vacation would block the only reasonable access. - A factual dispute emerged regarding the flood zone status of the property. Dean Wheat produced a stamped preliminary plat plan showing the subject property lies in a flood zone, challenging prior statements from city staff. Key Outcomes - The council did not vote on the vacation itself during the public hearing. After all testimony was heard, a motion to adjourn the public hearing was made by Mr. Fitzgerald, seconded by Miss Golan, and passed unanimously by voice vote. The council then proceeded to the regular council meeting. No further action on Z 2603 was recorded in the available transcript.