City Council Allocates Funds for Mold Remediation and Housing Initiatives in Teepee Park

Evansville City Council members tackled pressing issues during their March 10 meeting, with a significant focus on addressing mold problems at the Swander Ice Arena and funding for public safety projects.

The meeting kicked off with an update from Danielle Crook, the executive director of the Parks and Recreation Department, who detailed the ongoing mold remediation efforts at the Swander Ice Arena. After discovering extensive mold due to HVAC issues, the city plans to allocate casino funds to cover half of the remediation costs. Crook assured council members that the situation is under control, stating, "We don't anticipate any further problems," after repairs were made and the affected areas were secured.

In addition to the ice arena concerns, the council discussed the financial logistics surrounding a new parking garage at the 500 Block of Main Street. The city has appropriated funds to cover bond payments, transitioning money from the general fund's cash balance to the debt service fund. Council members sought clarity on the bond's duration, with indications it could last 14 to 15 years.

The meeting also highlighted a $35,000 fire grant aimed at enhancing public safety projects, which had been delayed from the previous year. Furthermore, the council reviewed a carryover of nearly $860,000 in the housing trust fund, with plans to appropriate an additional $1 million to support housing initiatives. Colby Jackson from the Department of Metropolitan Development confirmed that while some funds are earmarked for specific projects, there are still applications in the pipeline for homeowner repairs.

A collaborative housing initiative in Teepee Park was also announced, with $450,000 being shared among three organizations—Habitat for Humanity, Memorial CDC, and Community 1—to maximize impact in the area.

As the council moves forward, these discussions underscore a commitment to addressing community needs, from public safety to housing improvements, while ensuring financial accountability and transparency.