St. Joseph County Council approves $6.6 million park bond for Granger after months of debate

St. Joseph County Council voted 6–3 on Tuesday to approve an ordinance allowing the St. Joseph County Park District to issue up to $6.6 million in bonds to finance the development of Anderson Road Park in Granger and other park projects across the county.

Supporters said the bond replaces an expiring debt levy, keeps property taxes from rising and will fund deferred maintenance and new park amenities. Opponents argued the county should prioritize existing repair needs and be cautious about taking on long-term debt.

The vote followed a public hearing that drew dozens of residents, park board members and county officials. Catherine Fanello, attorney for the park board, told the council the park board had held public hearings and adopted a bond resolution; “Under the Indiana code, the council is required to hear and consider and approve the bond resolution and the authorization, to issue the bonds,” she said. Park director Steve Slauson described the property as land-banked for about 25 years and said the proposal includes improvements at other county parks.

Proponents emphasized that the bond would largely replace a recently retired debt service payment, producing a net reduction in the county’s overall debt levy even while providing capital for parks. County financial staff estimated the bond would add roughly $12 per year to the tax bill of a house assessed at $300,000, and projected total debt service of about $9 million if issued at 4 percent and amortized over the maximum 18-year term included in the ordinance.

Opponents and several council members pressed the parks department on operating and maintenance costs. Parks staff said they project roughly $180,000 per year in additional operating costs for the new park and reported current park cash reserves of about $900,000. Park board members said the funds would also address deferred maintenance at Bendix Woods, LaSalle Trail and other county properties.

After more than two hours of testimony and questions about financing, environmental benefits and the park’s design, the council approved the ordinance by roll call: Yes — Drake, Hess, Catanzarite, Tanner, Shabazz and President Schoetzle; No — Rutton, Thomas and Figg.

The ordinance authorizes the park district to issue bonds not to exceed $6.6 million and includes project descriptions and the council’s approval of the park board’s bond resolution. The park board and county commissioners will proceed with final pricing and scheduling if market conditions are favorable.

Council and park officials said they expect design and phased construction to follow formal issuance and closing, with additional public outreach on specific elements and schedules.