Terre Haute City Council reviews property tax proposals and engineering project updates

The Terre Haute City Council held its regular meeting on December 12, 2024, focusing on various departmental updates and pressing issues facing the city. The meeting commenced with a brief introduction from the council president, who acknowledged the presence of city officials and emphasized the importance of the discussions ahead.

The first significant topic addressed was the city's financial planning. A representative reported on a five-year revenue and expense projection initiated with Crow, the firm that conducted the city audit earlier in the year. This projection is crucial for developing a long-term spending plan in light of proposed changes to property taxes by the state legislature. The representative expressed concerns that if these proposals, which include a potential income tax, are enacted, Terre Haute could face a 15% reduction in staff, highlighting the need for data-driven discussions with state officials.

Following this, Marcus Maurer, the city engineer, provided an extensive update on the engineering department's activities over the past year. He reported on the review of 26 grants, with 11 applications submitted and three awarded, totaling approximately $1.8 million. Key projects included the Safe Streets for All Safety Action Plan, aimed at reducing accidents involving vulnerable road users, and the Riverfront Master Plan, which is nearing completion.

Maurer also discussed ongoing studies, such as the downtown grade separation study and a two-way traffic study for several streets. He highlighted the importance of collaboration with Vigo County on a capital improvement plan to address transportation projects that extend beyond city limits. Additionally, he mentioned the development of a connector road near the airport to facilitate future growth.

The meeting also covered updates on various active projects, including the Terre Haute Main lift station project, which is progressing on schedule, and the Brown Avenue stormwater improvement project, which is facing delays due to utility relocations. Maurer noted that the city has successfully paved nearly 10 miles of streets this year, with ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure.

In the building inspection department, updates included the hiring of a new lead inspector and the successful management of building permits, with over 2,200 permits sold this year. The department also reported significant progress in demolishing condemned properties and rehabilitating others.

The urban forestry program was highlighted for its achievements, including the planting of 285 trees and the maintenance of the city's tree inventory. The program is set to be recognized as a Tree City USA for the 27th consecutive year.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the city's proactive approach to addressing financial challenges, enhancing infrastructure, and improving community services. The council plans to continue these discussions in future meetings, focusing on data-driven strategies to support Terre Haute's growth and sustainability.