Dems see chance to snag 5th District, but demographics stuck in neutral
Operatives point to Democrat Joe Donnelly’s win in the district in 2018, despite losing his re-election bid for U.S. Senate.
Government & Economic Development
Articles
Hogsett, Merritt lay out plans for infrastructure, poverty in first mayoral debate
The debate was the first of 2019 between Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett, a Democrat, and Republican state Sen. Jim Merritt. The debate largely focused on infrastructure and regionalism, inequity and public safety.
State treasurer files to run for Congress
Republican Kelly Mitchell, who is in her second term as treasurer, joins what is shaping up to be a crowded primary field.
State task force holds first meeting on renewable energy
A new task force that hopes to help Indiana move from its coal-dominated past into a future that includes more renewable energy held its first meeting Monday, hearing hours of testimony.
Holcomb to lead trade delegations to China, India, Japan and South Korea
Holcomb will conclude his travels by joining the Indiana Pacers in Mumbai for the NBA’s inaugural games in India on Oct. 4 and 5.
Democratic state senator launches bid for attorney general
Sen. Karen Tallian, of Ogden Dunes, announced her campaign Wednesday morning, saying she plans to “restore checks and balances to the Statehouse and to be a voice for all who live here.”
Global gas manufacturer seeks $2M tax break on $38.3M project
An affiliate of Germany-based Messer Group wants to build a new facility on the south side of Indianapolis for making atmospheric gases for health care providers, food processors, and glass and metal fabricators.
Department of Revenue ready to launch new online tax portal
The first phase in the rollout of the online system will allow corporations, not-for-profits and other businesses to register for e-services, view tax documents, file and amend tax returns and pay taxes.
Fishers firm vying for big federal student-financing contract
A team of financial technologists has its sights on a U.S. Department of Education contract that could bring at least 300 jobs to the city and further central Indiana’s role as a student-financing hub.
Volkswagen settlement funds fuel-efficient buses, trucks
Indiana is receiving $41 million from the $2.9 billion portion of the settlement dedicated to funding projects that reduce diesel emissions.
Should this building be saved?
Historic preservationists and midtown neighborhood leaders don’t want to lose the Drake apartment building that its owner, The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, plans to raze.
Indiana’s unemployment rate dips in July
At 3.4%, Indiana’s rate remained lower than those of all neighboring states and the country as a whole.
Hogsett wants city street crews to operate more like police force—on beats
An $8 million DPW budget increase proposed Thursday would add street operators and a second shift of operations. Also on Thursday, the public works committee unanimously approved a proposal to appropriate $40 million in revenue bonds to fund road and bridge infrastructure.
Technology to make address canvassing easier for 2020 census
In Marion County, 20% of households still have to be verified during the address-canvassing process, but that’s the smallest amount in the central Indiana region.
Holcomb folding agency for growing defense sector under IEDC’s wing
The governor also has named a 41-year military veteran as the new point person for the Indiana Office of Defense Development as it becomes a business unit of the Indiana Economic Development Corp.
Fishers deputy mayor McGrath rules out run for U.S. Congress
Leah McGrath, a Republican, had been considered a possible candidate in Indiana’s 5th District, which is being vacated by Rep. Susan Brooks. Brooks has represented the district since 2013.
Popular Medicare Advantage plans come under fire
Regulators say the insurance industry has been annually overbilling the government by billions of dollars, and now the federal government is stepping up moves to recoup money.
New workforce initiative helping firms get smarter with hiring
Skillful Indiana teaches skills-based hiring practices and trains career coaches so they can better connect job seekers with open positions.
City to repurpose some public golf courses
Indy Parks is grappling with the future of its 13 courses based on declining revenue and interest, and millions of dollars in eventual facility upgrades.
Former Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard says he’s not running for Congress
Ballard had been one of several Republicans suspected of being interested in running for Indiana’s 5th District, which is being vacated by Rep. Susan Brooks next year.