INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — The Indianapolis City-County Council plans to introduce a proposal next week to revise the Downtown Economic Enhancement District to accommodate recent legislative changes made during the last general assembly.
On July 8, the district aims to address safety, cleanliness, and homelessness with consistent, targeted funding and high-quality service for fee payers, according to a release.
“As Indianapolis proudly hosted the swimming Olympic trials, it highlighted our city’s dedication to showcasing world-class events and fostering community spirit right here in downtown Indianapolis,” said Indianapolis City-County Council President Vop Osili. “An Economic Enhancement District is pivotal in keeping that momentum moving forward every day of the year. This initiative strengthens downtown’s appeal and reinforces our ongoing commitment to maintaining its safety, vibrancy, and cleanliness for residents, visitors, and businesses.”
Last year, the Indiana General Assembly granted the Indianapolis City-County Council the authority to establish an Economic Enhancement District. The Council approved the initial establishment of the EED in December.
The Indiana Governor Assembly enacted changes to the EED this year. Those changes include:
- Removes the Mile Square boundary requirement but requires any newly drawn district to remain an equal square on all sides.
- Multi-family property/apartment buildings would be exempt from paying an EED fee but allow for an opt-in for these properties to pay into, and receive services of, the EED.
- Single-family homes (who previously would pay a flat $250) are also exempt from the EED.
- The Governor would receive one more appointee making it a 5-4 state-local board and 6 votes are required for any action.
- Codifies in state code the $5.5 million EED budget that was passed by the City-County Council.
- Removes “activating and promoting public events”, “creating innovative approaches to attracting new businesses”, and “planning improvement activities” from the list of permitted uses of EED dollars.
- The EED cannot be renewed after a 10-year lifecycle and any bonding or other agreements cannot extend past the 10-year window.
According to a release, the new boundaries for the proposed Economic Enhancement District are:
“North border and the East border are I-65. The South border is primarily South Street, and the West border is primarily Blackford Street. The rate a property owner can be assessed within the district will be capped at .168%, remaining consistent with the district fee structure passed last year.”
Funds collected by the district would fund the following projects:
- 7-day-a-week cleaning crew to perform tasks like power washing, graffiti removal, litter abatement, etc.
- Beautification initiatives include plantings, painting, and mulching.
- Off-duty foot and bike patrols to supplement police presence and provide direct outreach resources to property owners.
- Safety ambassadors for additional street-level presence.
- Homeless Street Outreach team members are dedicated to connecting individuals to services, addressing issues, and coordinating with public safety agencies.
- Investments in downtown crime-fighting public safety technology.
- Last dollar in funding for a low-barrier shelter.
The projects are focused on the cleanliness, safety, and experience of downtown Indianapolis.
“Building on the tremendous momentum downtown Indianapolis has gained in recent years, the re-establishment of the Economic Enhancement District will further enhance our city’s vibrancy and appeal,” said Taylor Hughes, Vice President of Policy & Strategy at Indy Chamber, in a release. “Working together with local businesses, community organizations, and government entities represents the collaborative effort to strengthen the heart of our city and allows us to ensure that every stakeholder has a voice in shaping the future of Indianapolis.”
A public hearing for the proposal is scheduled for July 15 at 5:30 p.m. in the Public Assembly Room.
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