Committee forwards Natissa Woodard to full council for Indianapolis Public Library board appointment

The Municipal Corporations Committee on Wednesday voted to send Proposal 207 to the full Indianapolis City-County Council with a “do pass” recommendation, advancing the nomination of Natissa Woodard to the Indianapolis Public Library Board of Trustees.

Committee Chairman Jared Evans said the panel had scheduled the meeting to consider the library appointment outside its normal calendar. Woodard, who introduced herself to the committee, told members she is “truly an honor to be confirmed as a trustee for the Indianapolis Public Library.”

The committee heard brief remarks from council members stressing the library’s expanding role in the city. Councilor Keith Graves (District 9) said libraries now serve as cooling centers among other community functions and voiced his endorsement. Councilor Jesse Brown (District 13) and others asked the appointee to maintain regular communication with the council and to work closely with library labor when appropriate.

Public supporters spoke in favor of Woodard. Denise Cornelius identified herself as third vice president of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women and called Woodard “extremely innovative” and “fair,” saying she will “definitely listen and hear you out.” Woodard’s mother, who identified herself as Monica, also spoke briefly in support.

During committee discussion members raised specific local concerns about facility equity. Councilor Ron Gibson (District 8) cited the East 30th Street branch as needing upkeep and told the committee he will press library leadership for improvements. Several councilors volunteered to be co-sponsors of the appointment when it reaches the full council.

The motion to send Proposal 207 to the full council with a do-pass recommendation was offered by Councilor Keith Graves and seconded (second speaker not named in the record). Chairman Jared Evans called for voice votes; the motion passed and the appointment will next be considered by the full council.

Woodard, who noted she has worked in both education and the corporate sector and serves as chair of the Emerging Pearls Foundation, said she is committed to strengthening the connection between libraries and the neighborhoods they serve and promised to report back to the council on needs and developments.

Committee business concluded without further items and the meeting was adjourned.