Zionsville council approves funds for fire station land purchases and police radar display

The Zionsville Town Council on Aug. 4, 2025, approved Resolution 2025-08 to appropriate funds for two land acquisitions intended for future fire stations and to authorize a police purchase tied to a Duke Energy grant. Cindy Poor, director of finance, and Chief Van Gorder presented the resolution and supporting background. Councilors approved the appropriation by voice vote, 7-0, with Councilor Evan Norris making the motion and Councilor Melton seconding. Chief Van Gorder outlined the parcels and vision: a 12.255-acre parcel in western Zionsville (approximate location 303302 East 550 South) for $1,465,000 and a 2.812-acre parcel in eastern Zionsville (approximate location 3911 South US 421) for $2,390,000. Chief Van Gorder said the larger parcel is planned to accommodate a future public-safety training area and was chosen because it is adjacent to industrial property. The police item included appropriation for a portable radar speed display with a total purchase price of $4,400; Cindy Poor said the town would appropriate $4,000 and a Duke Energy grant would cover the remaining $400. Councilors opened a public hearing for the resolution, saw no public speakers, and closed the hearing before voting. The resolution passed 7-0. The presenters said ARPA funds and other reserves were explored to fund the purchases and appraisals were conducted in accordance with Indiana statute requiring two appraisals for municipal land acquisitions; the town stated it will not pay more than the average of two appraisals. No further conditions or amendments were added at the meeting.