Lebanon’s mayor digs in for his third term
Matt Gentry recently sat down with IBJ to discuss what’s next for both Lebanon and him, going into what he said will be his final term.
Government & Economic Development
Articles
Michael A. Carroll Award winner: Daniels still aiming higher, no matter the role
Thinking big and inspiring others to do so as well has been Mitch Daniels’ hallmark through five decades in business, public service and higher education.
State revenue under projections for first time this fiscal year
The state budget plan predicted revenue of about $1.6 billion but collections were short $139 million: almost 9% below expectations, according to a monthly revenue report.
IMPD’s expanding use of tech raises privacy concerns
The department is poised to invest $9 million in COVID-19 recovery funds into cameras and other technology. Some critics are raising privacy and efficacy concerns; others say the city hasn’t adopted the new techniques quickly enough.
Group forms in opposition to LEAP District water pipeline
The group, “Stop the Water Steal,” plans to lead a letter-writing campaign to local and state officials, urging them to stop the pipeline, slow its progress or minimize its impact on community water resources.
IEDC launches new branding effort: ‘For the Bold’
The Indiana Economic Development Corp. signed a $3.5 million contract with Southfield, Michigan-based advertising firm Doner Co. to develop the branding initiative.
As Zionsville’s next mayor, John Stehr aims to ‘lower the temperature’
Running unopposed in the Nov. 7 election, the former TV anchor is eager to move past Town Hall conflicts.
State Comptroller Tera Klutz to step down with three years left in her term
Klutz was appointed as the 57th auditor of the state by Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb in 2017, becoming the first certified public accountant to serve as the state’s chief financial officer.
Hogsett, civic leaders don’t expect downtown taxing district approval before election
A new state law allows the council to create an economic enhancement district board that could impose a fee on property owners in the Mile Square.
Income tax revenue replacement ‘remains to be seen,’ state budget director says
The comments from Indiana State Budget Director Zac Jackson came during a virtual panel discussion on the impacts an economic recession would have on state budgets.
Biden administration aims to scrub medical debt from credit scores, boosting ratings for millions
In addition to pulling medical bills from credit reports, the proposal would prevent creditors from using medical bills when deciding on loans and stop debt collectors from using credit ratings to pressure people with health care-related debt.
‘Success coaches’ to hit Indiana colleges after budget approval
The Indiana State Budget Committee on Friday approved $2.5 million to embed 31 success coaches in higher education institutions across the state.
Pilot program aims to give relief to Riverside property taxpayers
The Indianapolis City-County Council approved a proposal on Monday creating the Riverside district and a tax credit for longtime homeowners in the neighborhood who are over the age of 55.
City drops plan to redevelop City-County Building
The city will work through 2024 to consolidate into its most prominent piece of real estate offices that are now scattered around downtown, including those of the Department of Public Works and the Department of Business and Neighborhood Services.
Push for high-tech plants drives up cost of incentives
National efforts to boost computer chip and electric vehicle production are fueling a bidding war among states, including Indiana, that is driving up the cost and number of so-called “megadeal” incentive packages exceeding $50 million.
Alliance aims for equitable placement of EV chargers
A group of Black civil rights organizations is amping up its call for racial equity to be taken into account as state and city leaders decide where to place chargers needed to support the growing number of electric vehicles.
Star of ‘Good Bones’ show says city officials hampered her work
The HGTV home-improvement show is airing its last season, and Mina Starsiak Hawk says she’s not sure of her next steps. But one thing seems likely: She won’t be redeveloping or building houses regularly in Indianapolis anymore.
Holcomb to lead economic development trip to Japan
The trip will mark Gov. Eric Holcomb’s third visit to Japan and 16th international trip as Indiana governor.
As sports betting spikes, help for problem gamblers expands in some states
Since the U.S. Supreme Court cleared the way for legalized sports betting five years ago, nearly three-fourths of the states have moved swiftly to allow it.
State to examine options for road funding
When an Indiana task force meets this month to discuss future funding for state and local roads, Mayor Joe Hogsett’s administration will face an uphill battle with its proposal to change the funding formula that strongly favors rural areas.