Greene County economic development staff reports progress on Westgate, water and sewer needs and Project Prometheus

Brianne Gerald, Greene County economic development representative, told the Greene County Commission that work on the Westgate development is “moving forward rapidly” but that utilities — particularly water and sewer — will require active county engagement.

The presentation, given during the commission meeting, focused on coordination with utility providers and the need to resolve easement and signage questions at Progress Point. “The gas and electric were the easiest of the three,” Gerald said, and added that water and sewer “will be more difficult issues.” She asked the commission to be ready to engage with utility partners as the project moves from planning to implementation.

Gerald and commissioners discussed a sign planned for the Progress Point corner on County Line Road. Commissioners asked whether the sign sits in an easement and whether there is a written agreement with the owners of neighboring signs (for Westcott and a clinic). Gerald said she will follow up and report back on the sign location and any licensing arrangement that may be required.

The commission also heard updates about related property work. Gerald said the county is negotiating with the owner of the Bob Jackson property to preserve most of the 87 acres for trails and amenities; the owner intends to retain the house, barn and roughly five acres. She said Indiana University (IU) has been asked to complete a daycare study to support Westgate planning and that she had asked county staff to speed that work.

Gerald described early-stage planning concerns tied to the Mid State Highway project and how its final routing and exit locations will affect access to Westgate. “We need to know where the exits are going to be,” she said, noting that highway routing options remain under study by state planners and regional partners.

Separately, Gerald outlined a proposed financing incentive discussed for a prospective employer called Project Prometheus. Under the structure she described, the county would create a second tax-increment financing (TIF) allocation area; 80% of incremental property tax revenue during the TIF’s 25‑year life would be returned to the company as an incentive and the county would retain 20%. Gerald said that — under current assumptions presented to the commission — the 20% retained by the county would equate to about $13,000,000 over 25 years. She cautioned the commission that the proposal’s final details might be affected by state-level legislation under consideration.

The economic development report closed with Gerald asking the commission to expect follow-up work on utility coordination, signage licensing, the daycare study and targeted property negotiations. Commissioners directed staff to return with more precise information on easements, licensing for the Progress Point sign and next steps for utilities and highway coordination.