Public Meetings - New Albany, Indiana

The Public Works Committee of the New Albany City Council met on July 16, 2026, to consider an ordinance for the vacation of a public way (an alley) pursuant to a petition filed by Robert Wheat, along with a reservation of permanent utility easement. After discussion of the legal merits, pending litigation, and concerns about property access, the committee voted unanimously to move the ordinance to the full council without a recommendation and recommended it be tabled pending further legal review. Discussion Items - Councilman Fitzgerald, sponsor of the ordinance, explained that residents on DePaul Avenue had requested the vacation of a 20-foot-wide alley section extending from DePaul Avenue to the rear property line of 2035 DePaul Avenue. He stated that the vacation would help with tree preservation and natural landscaping issues, and that the alley is currently unpaved with mature trees. - City Attorney Corey Manning provided legal analysis: she had not yet reviewed the original petition to verify statutory compliance; the exhibit in the proposed ordinance was not entirely clear and appeared to be outdated; and she received a letter from Discovery Builders' attorneys flagging legal issues. She noted that a lawsuit filed by Mr. Wheat challenging the preliminary plat approval (which includes this alley for ingress/egress) is pending. Manning advised that acting on the vacation while litigation is ongoing could create legal risk, and recommended waiting for the court's resolution. - Justin Members (attorney for Discovery Builders) commented on the litigation timeline: the declaratory judgment petition was filed February 3rd, but the judicial review of preliminary plat approval (November 18th) was required within 30 days (by December 18th), so he anticipated a motion to dismiss would be filed within 60-90 days, based on the statute of limitations. He argued that the vacation request is essentially a third attempt to oppose the approved subdivision. - Councilman Scott expressed concerns that vacating the alley would cut off access to a larger parcel of property, removing rights from the property owner, regardless of the proposed development. He questioned the purpose of the committee if it simply passes items forward without thorough vetting. - The committee chair suggested that the proper course is to move the ordinance to the full council for further consideration, as the committee's role is to vet the legislative vehicle, and that the council could then decide to table or recommit. After clarifying procedural options, a motion was made to recommend the ordinance to the full council with the understanding that it should be tabled for further legal review and examination of the petition. Key Outcomes - The committee voted unanimously (3 ayes, 0 nays) to recommend the ordinance to the full New Albany City Council, neutrally and without a recommendation, and indicated that the council should table the item pending completion of legal review (including verification of the petition and assessment of the pending lawsuit). - The committee meeting was adjourned, after which a public hearing on the ordinance was scheduled to begin at 6:45 PM.

The New Albany Historic Preservation Commission met on July 15, 2026 at 7 PM at City Hall. Chair Colt Sanders called the meeting to order, with all eight voting members present (Colt Sanders, Kate Berliner, Matt Bergman, Marlena Mayfield, Jacob Resch, David West Reynolds, Jim Sprigler, Michael Weber), along with ex officio Scott Wood and administrator Laura Renwick. The agenda and June meeting minutes were approved unanimously. No financial report was provided. Consent Calendar - Staff-approved Certificate of Appropriateness applications were noted without discussion: - Sermersheim (211 E. Market) – vinyl lettering on display windows and door - Sermersheim (213 E. Main) – flush-mounted lettering on storefront cornice - Sermersheim (611 E. Spring) – 36" square hanging sign on existing sign arm - Keller (224 E. Main) – 20" round hanging sign on new sign arm and door sign - T3 Investment Group (201-205 E. Market) – scrape and repaint storefront, removal of box sign frame and metal awnings Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered during the Certificate of Appropriateness reviews. - During Hearing of Visitors, a commission member (David West Reynolds) reported that the New Albany City Council would discuss a proposal the following evening (July 16) to close an alley at the northeast end of the DePauw conservation district, which a developer sought to incorporate into a yard. The neighborhood planned to attend in support of the alley closure, and the city appeared supportive. Discussion Items - Batovsky (420 E. 13th) – Cedar shed addition: The applicant proposed adding a small cedar shed (84" tall x 37" deep x 71½" wide) behind the house, partially visible from Elm Street. The shed would be wood construction, painted to match the house. Staff recommended approval, citing consistency with guidelines for accessory structures (AS4, AS5, AS9, AS10). The commission discussed the orientation of siding (horizontal vs. vertical) and the need to allow treated wood to age before painting. The motion to find the project compatible passed unanimously, and the Certificate of Appropriateness was approved unanimously. - Langdon (913 E. Main) – Demolish existing garage, build new two-car garage: The existing L-shaped garage, likely post-1952, was in poor condition (sagging roof, plywood patches) and deemed not salvageable. The proposed replacement would match the existing footprint, be clad in HardiePlank siding, and include carriage-style doors and windows matching the Italianate house style. Staff recommended approval pending receipt of north elevation drawings (which were provided at the meeting). The applicant noted plans to use original 1850s doors from the house for one garage bay. The commission discussed dimensions, materials, and the impact on a stone retaining wall. The motion to find the project compatible with the district (citing demolition guidelines DE1-4 and accessory structure guidelines AS1,4-10) passed with one dissenting vote (Michael Weber). The subsequent motion to approve the Certificate of Appropriateness also passed 7-1, with Michael Weber voting no due to concerns about the second floor height. Old Business - DePauw Avenue Conservation District: David West Reynolds noted the upcoming city council meeting regarding the alley closure and development parcel. The neighborhood is opposed to using the alley as a development entrance. - Other Potential New District Designations: Jacob Resch reported that a follow-up public meeting with the Silver Hills neighborhood had not been scheduled due to lack of response from the venue. The commission hopes to hold a meeting in August to better gauge interest in historic or conservation district designation. - Enforcement Update: Laura Renwick sent letters to new owners at 217 East 9th and 1110 East Elm. The new owners of the Odd Fellows Building are performing work (e.g., painting trim on upper stories) without prior approval; staff will follow up. A commissioner noted a building beside Aura Salon had its floors removed, but no further information was available. Also noted was a historic house on 10th Street with bricks falling out; staff will investigate. - Facelift Awards: The commission decided to hold the Facelift Awards ceremony in October, one hour before the regular meeting (likely October 21, 2026, pending room availability). Kate Berliner and Matt Bergman will send letters to winners. The commission discussed honoring historian Dave Barksdale, possibly by renaming the award or creating a special award. No decision was made; the item was tabled to the next meeting for further discussion, including checking if Barksdale has already received a Sagamore of the Wabash award. New Business - A scholarship to the state preservation conference was offered to commissioners. Chair Colt Sanders indicated he would attend and use one. Key Outcomes - Approved: Certificate of Appropriateness for Batovsky (420 E. 13th) – shed addition (unanimous). - Approved: Certificate of Appropriateness for Langdon (913 E. Main) – garage demolition and new construction (7-1, Michael Weber dissenting). - Tabled: Discussion on renaming the Facelift Award or honoring Dave Barksdale to the next meeting. - Next Steps: Staff will continue enforcement communication with Odd Fellows building owners; investigate the 10th Street property; schedule a Silver Hills public meeting; and prepare for the October Facelift Awards ceremony. - Next Meeting: August 26, 2026 at 7 PM at New Albany City Hall. The Homes Tour is scheduled for September 12, 2026.

The New Albany Redevelopment Commission met on July 14, 2026, with members Terry Middleton, Daniel Guest, Jenny Collyer, and Adam Dickie present. The commission unanimously approved routine items, Silver Street Park Turf security equipment and installation, Town Clock Church restoration funding, Harvest Homecoming’s garage rain-location request, a joint resolution with the flood control district, and the claims worksheet. Staff also provided an informational update on the CDBG emergency repair program. Consent Calendar - Minutes: The June 23, 2026 minutes were approved unanimously. - Claims worksheet: Approved unanimously, including a payment to Applying Pressure LLC for CDBG-funded Bignell Park work: new sign installation, pressure washing of the concrete sign stand, and restroom exterior pressure washing. The worksheet also included an item referred to as the firehouse “bot”/“Daisy” near River Run. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered. Discussion Items - Silver Street Park Turf Project – Security Equipment and Installation: Staff reported obtaining a quote from SIR LLC for $40,396.75 after reaching out to six other companies. The project would be paid with CDBG public facility funds. The board approved the quote contingent on staff and legal review. - Town Clock Church Restoration Reimbursement: The commission reviewed a resolution providing $15,000 to the Friends of the Town Clock Church for bell tower and clock rehabilitation. Staff noted the clock is not currently working and said the Friends had stated work would begin July 2. A commissioner highlighted the site’s Underground Railroad history and cultural importance, and noted that the Community Foundation of Southern Indiana is contributing $10,000, with other private contributors also supporting the effort. - Harvest Homecoming Garage Request: Harvest Homecoming requested use of the lower level of the parking garage as a rain location for the Pumpkin Decorating Contest on October 4 from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. and for children’s events on October 10 from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The request included diagrams showing space uses, trash cans, restrooms, and vendors. It would not prohibit parking on other decks; only the lower level to the west was requested. Barricades were discussed as a safety measure. - Joint Resolution with Flood Control District: Flood control director Brad Baer attended; the flood control district had approved the joint resolution earlier that morning. The transcript names the district as the “Walmart Flood Control District.” The resolution delegates authority for the listed projects to the flood control district and allows coordination with DNR and other agencies. - Emergency Repair Program Change: Staff announced an administrative change to the CDBG emergency repair program: the $10,000 repair allowance is now per homeowner rather than per housing unit over its lifetime. Staff noted this change was not required by HUD or CDBG. A homeowner who moves into a property after a previous owner used the full amount is now also eligible. No board approval was required. - Other Business: A ribbon cutting at the former Extol location on Market was mentioned, along with an updated sheet listing three or four additional items. Key Outcomes - Approved the June 23, 2026 minutes unanimously. - Approved the SIR LLC quote for $40,396.75 for Silver Street Park Turf security equipment and installation, subject to staff and legal review, unanimously. - Approved the $15,000 reimbursement resolution to the Friends of the Town Clock Church unanimously. - Approved Harvest Homecoming’s parking garage rain-location request unanimously. - Approved the joint resolution with the flood control district unanimously. - Approved the claims worksheet unanimously. - Took no formal vote on the emergency repair program change; it was informational.

The New Albany Board of Public Works & Safety met on July 14, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at City Hall. The board considered a water main replacement project, an encroachment permit for fiber optic installation, heard a public complaint about recurring basement flooding, and received updates on paving, manhole lining, and trail projects. Several approvals were granted with conditions. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The regular meeting minutes for July 7, 2026, were approved unanimously. - Claims: The board approved the claims as presented. Public Comments & Testimony - Sarah Cardwell & Neighbor (property owner at 225 Village Pine Drive): The residents reported severe basement flooding on July 11-12, 2026, due to a creek overflow behind their homes. They stated this was the third such event and requested city assistance in maintaining the creek. Discussion revealed that the creek likely lies on private property and state (INDOT) right-of-way. The board acknowledged the issue and committed to sending city personnel to inspect the site and coordinate with INDOT if necessary. Discussion Items - Shelby Street Water Main Replacement Project (Pat Hauersperger, O'Mara): Hauersperger requested a no-parking restriction on one side of Shelby Street to facilitate water main installation, with half the street closed at a time. The project is scheduled to start the week of July 14 and must be completed by August 4, 2026, per school system requirements. Contractors will use door hangers to notify residents. The board approved the request contingent upon providing the door hanger text for review. Motion carried unanimously. - Lumos Fiber Encroachment Permit (Tim Phillips, Lumos): Phillips requested a permit to install fiber optic lines in the Klerner Lane, Rainbow Drive, and Mt. Tabor Road areas. Board members expressed concerns about prior restoration issues with Lumos, including complaints from residents and city staff. The board required Lumos to provide a copy of the resident notification letter and to bring their contractor to the next meeting to address past issues. The permit was tabled until July 21, 2026, pending these conditions. Motion carried unanimously. - Dumpster Request (Joseph McGill, 117 Clay Street): The board approved a dumpster placement at 117 Clay Street from July 14-21, 2026, subject to requiring reflective tape. Motion carried unanimously. - Paving Project Updates (City Official): The board approved Change Order No. 2 and the retainage release ($92,067.52) for the 2024-2 (2025) paving project, closing out that contract. The paving work on State Street is ongoing with night milling and resurfacing expected to finish by the end of the week. Motion carried unanimously. - Manhole Lining Notice (Mr. Wallace): The board was informed that BLD Services will line 22 manholes in the east end starting July 20, 2026. Seven manholes will require traffic control, but no road closures are planned. - Trail Project Update: The board received an update on the downtown trail connecting 8th Street to 4th Street and beyond. Paving is nearly complete, and concrete work is progressing between Market and Main Streets. Key Outcomes - Approved: Shelby Street water main project (contingent on door hanger review). - Tabled: Lumos encroachment permit to July 21, 2026, pending additional documentation and contractor appearance. - Approved: Dumpster request at 117 Clay Street. - Approved: Change Order No. 2 and retainage release for the 2024-2 paving project. - Approved: Claims and minutes from July 7, 2026. - Next Steps: City staff will inspect the flooding site at Village Pine Drive and contact INDOT if state right-of-way is involved.

The board met to approve minutes, hear the director’s report, pass two joint resolutions with the Redevelopment Commission, and approve claims. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from the June 9, 2026 monthly meeting. - Approved claims totaling $18,736.52. Public Comments - None. Director’s Report - River level: 18.59 feet. - Riverfront bathrooms fully remodeled and reopened, coinciding with a successful Fourth of July event. - Preparing for the Army Corps of Engineers’ five-year inspection next year; gates are in good order. New Business - Joint Resolution with Redevelopment Commission: Authorized collaboration between the Flood Control Board and the Redevelopment Commission on riverfront projects within the flood control district. The commission delegated certain responsibilities to the board. Passed unanimously. - Resolution Authorizing Execution of Agreements: Expanded on the joint partnership, authorizing execution of a BLC/BOT installment agreement, participation purchase agreement, and other documents for projects at the QRS site along the riverfront, including earthwork and amenities. Passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Both resolutions passed without opposition. - Claims approved. - Meeting adjourned.

The New Albany Storm Water Board met on July 9, 2026. The agenda listed the meeting at 10:00 a.m. in Room 100 at New Albany City Hall; the provided timestamp for the meeting is 2026-07-09 15:00:00+00:00. President Roger Harbison presided. No minutes document was provided, so this summary is drawn from the transcript. The transcript does not capture a separate approval of the agenda or the Pledge of Allegiance. Consent Calendar - The board approved the regular meeting minutes of June 25, 2026, with no opposition. - The board approved claims totaling $40,578.94 for June 25–July 8, 2026, with no opposition. A board member asked about 'True Test LC'; the response was that the firm does pipe patching and that this work used pipe patching from inside rather than excavation. Public Comments & Testimony - Nicholas Woodlocks (also transcribed as 'Woodcox'), representing Renaissance Design (transcript reads 'Renaissance Design Bill'), requested preliminary approval of a basic drainage plan for a client's development on Security Parkway, described as a recreational facility or flex units. He stated that the third-party engineering review had not yet been completed. - Director Phillip Aldridge said he had reviewed the plan for ingress and egress but not drainage and that board review of third-party items is typically reserved for variances or unusual plans. He suggested approval contingent on the third-party review. - No communication from city officials was reported. Discussion Items - Stormwater Director's Report (Phillip Aldridge): Because of the previous day's rain, crews were flushing and cleaning lines on Fifth Street from Market to Elm Street, with work continuing to Fourth Street while coordinating with construction. Crews were also cleaning catch basins and head walls and sweeping as weather permitted. - Rainfall context: Aldridge reported that during the July 8 rain event, 1 inch fell in the 15 minutes between noon and 12:15 p.m., qualifying as a 50- to 100-year event. Between noon and 1 p.m., NOAA gauges recorded at least 2 inches, while local gauges showed as much as 3 inches during that one-hour period. He stated that even a perfectly functioning system could have backups and flooding under that extraordinary rainfall, and he believed the system is in good shape. - QPI Inspections Report (Westley Fair): Fox Run was asked to add 'some number twos' to the construction entrance and build it up because it was low. Wildlaw's was asked to take care of unprotected storm drains and what the transcript calls 'just some silk things' (silt-control items). A total of seven issues were identified on site. - Financial Report (Ed Wilkinson; the transcript first calls him 'Ian'): The report noted that what was transcribed as 'the lean money' came in 'before the first order for the May installment,' and 'lead receipts' were $44,230. Asked whether this money comes in once or twice a year, Wilkinson's answer is recorded as 'Twice. Once a year, June and December.' Wilkinson also commented that heavy rain ponded on a church property in the Castlewood area for 15 to 20 minutes before draining into the city system, indicating the system is working well. Key Outcomes - Approved the June 25, 2026 regular meeting minutes by voice vote with no opposition. - Approved the Security Parkway drainage plan contingent on third-party engineering review. - Approved claims for June 25–July 8, 2026, totaling $40,578.94. - No new business or old business was discussed; the board approved adjournment by voice vote.

The New Albany Sewer Board met on July 9, 2026, at 9:15 a.m. in Room 100 of City Hall. The board approved minutes, initiated a major capital project resolution, reviewed a financial report, received a utility update, and approved claims. The meeting lasted approximately 30 minutes. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The board approved the regular meeting minutes from June 25, 2026, as presented. Motion by a member, seconded, and passed by voice vote. Discussion Items - New Business – Resolution to Begin Build-Operator Transfer Process (SP-26-04): The board considered a resolution authorizing the start of a build-operator transfer process for the sewer plant, including the lab, offices, and security grounds. This is one of several identified projects. Discussion included concerns about cash flow if reimbursements from bond proceeds were delayed. Bond counsel confirmed that over $1 million in prior sewer utility expenses would be reimbursed from bond proceeds and that approximately $24 million in bond proceeds remain available for new project costs. The resolution number was assigned as SP-26-04. The board voted unanimously to approve the resolution. - Utility Report: Superintendent Mike provided updates: in-house plant work continues on a railroad track and ramp; a UV system punch list is nearly complete with one actuator replaced under warranty; IDEM conducted its annual inspection and was informed of planned capital investments. Mike also noted that between noon and 12:15 p.m. on July 8, 2026, one inch of rain fell, and by 1:00 p.m. a total of two inches had fallen—classified as a 50- to 100-year storm event—which overwhelmed some stormwater systems. City officials are investigating potential blockages. Key Outcomes - Resolution SP-26-04: Approved unanimously to begin the build-operator transfer process for the sewer plant. Next steps include scoping and developing a formal proposal for board approval. - Claims Approval: The board approved claims totaling $431,675.53 for the period June 25 to July 8, 2026, as presented. - Financial Report: The lien recovery for May installment and taxes was $265,000, trending favorably compared to a $300,000 average. No other budget concerns were noted.

The New Albany Tree Board met on July 8, 2026, to address public comments, discuss tree-related issues, and receive an introduction from a new DNR representative. Key actions included approving a tree removal with replacement, tabling a hazardous tree decision, and referring a sidewalk damage issue to the Board of Public Works. Public Comments & Testimony - Eric Fowler (1418 Chartres Street) requested removal of a city-owned golden rain tree planted on the public right-of-way near his property. He stated the tree's falling nuts, blossoms, and leaves require frequent car washes (minimum $14 twice a week or $80 monthly for interior/exterior cleaning). He offered to pay for a replacement tree elsewhere if the city removed the tree, as a $4,000 quote to remove a large shared oak on his property was unaffordable. His mother, the homeowner, is 81 years old and struggles with parking due to the tree's debris. Discussion Items - Eric Fowler's tree removal request: The board discussed the tree's condition (fair, with weed-eater damage and a broken limb). After considering options, the board voted to approve removal upon receipt of $320 (cost of a replacement tree planted by the city). The replacement will be planted at a nearby suitable site, and Mr. Fowler agreed to maintain a large oak on his property to support the urban canopy. - DNR Presentation: Amy Rhodes, new Community Urban Forestry Program coordinator (south of I-70), introduced herself and the CUFA grant (Community Urban Forestry Assistance, $1,000-$30,000, 1:1 match reimbursement, deadline September 11, 2026). She discussed challenges communities face, including lack of dedicated arborists and budget constraints, and praised New Albany's tree program. Board members shared program successes and challenges, including funding, climate change, and tree survival. - Silver Creek Drive oak tree: A large oak tree protruding into the road has been struck by vehicles, has minor decay, and is a moderate risk. A neighbor warned of potential liability. The board voted to table the decision for one month, pending inspection by the street department (Larry Summers) regarding roadway impact and safety. - 323 block sidewalk damage: Trees (likely on Reno side) are buckling sidewalks to hazardous levels. The board voted to refer the issue to Mickey Thompson and the Board of Public Works for potential sidewalk replacement and root trimming. - 1610 East Spring Street tree: A healthy tree that dropped a small limb, damaging a resident's car twice. The resident was cordial and agreed to park elsewhere during storms. No action taken; board noted the tree provides good canopy. - 121 East 14th Street dead tree: A large dead maple on private property (rental) across from a retirement facility. Staff will proceed with enforcement under the new hazardous tree ordinance, sending a letter to the property owner. The board noted this is early in the process and deferred immediate action to prioritize more urgent cases. - AV equipment issue: The board discussed difficulty connecting staff Dell computers to the display TV due to council's policy requiring Apple products. Staff will resolve before next meeting. Key Outcomes - Motion to remove Eric Fowler's city tree: Approved unanimously (5-0) upon receipt of $320 replacement cost; city will plant a replacement tree nearby. - Motion to table Silver Creek Drive oak tree: Approved unanimously (5-0) for one month, with instructions for staff to obtain street department input. - Motion to refer 323 block sidewalk damage to Board of Public Works: Approved unanimously (5-0). - No action on 1610 East Spring Street tree: Issue resolved informally. - Enforcement process initiated for 121 East 14th Street tree: Staff will send a hazardous tree letter to the property owner. - Meeting adjourned at approximately 9:15 PM (local time).

The Board of Public Works & Safety met on July 7, 2026, at 10:00 AM in New Albany City Hall. The board approved several permits, a paving traffic management plan, and street closures for vegetation control. All actions were unanimous. Discussion Items 1. Statewide Mortgage – Sidewalk and Parking Closure Request - Levi Edwards of Statewide Mortgage requested revisions to a previously submitted permit for work at 306–310 Bank Street (originally listed as Market Street). The corrected request: close sidewalk and parking spaces on July 9–10 for softwashing the building, and close only the sidewalk on July 15–17 and July 20 for painting windows using a scissor lift. Work hours: 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Plywood plates will be placed over sidewalk for the lift. The lift will be stored in a locked breezeway when not in use. The board approved the amended request. 2. Paving Update – Traffic Management Plan - City official Mickey Thompson reported that MAC Construction is expected to begin asphalt resurfacing and patching on St. Joseph Street between Alexis Drive and approximately 1100 feet from Alexis Drive (near the Cameron Miller intersection). Daytime work hours: 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Patching will also continue on Grant Line Road. Message boards will be placed at McDonald Lane and Vincent to notify traffic of delays and recommend Charlestown Road as an alternative. A traffic management plan (MOT) was presented, including flaggers at most locations except one where a center turn lane will be used. Work may take two to three days, weather permitting. The board approved the MOT. 3. CenterPoint Energy – Encroachment Permit - Mickey Thompson (for CenterPoint Energy) requested an encroachment permit to retire gas service and install a new gas service at 1818 Conservative Street. A sidewalk panel will need to be removed. The board approved the permit. 4. Emergency Sewer Repair - A city official reported an emergency sewer repair at 323 East Ninth Street (corner of Spring Street) due to an upcoming wedding party. The repair was completed immediately. The board ratified the emergency action. 5. Street Closures for Vegetation Control - A commissioner requested closure of Old Vincennes Street from Westwood to Cherry Street on July 20 (8:00 AM to noon) for vegetation control, with rolling roadblocks on Captain Frank and Cherry Street Hill the same day. On July 21, Spring Street Hill will be closed for vegetation control. Signs will be posted. The board approved the closures. Key Outcomes - Approved amended sidewalk/parking closure for Statewide Mortgage (unanimous). - Approved paving traffic management plan for St. Joseph and Grant Line Road (unanimous). - Approved CenterPoint Energy encroachment permit (unanimous). - Ratified emergency sewer repair (unanimous). - Approved street closures for vegetation control on July 20–21 (unanimous). - Approved claims for June 23 to July 6 totaling $2,641,190.42 (unanimous). - Approved minutes of the June 30, 2026 regular meeting (unanimous).