Marion County approves transfer of six surplus lots to redevelopment program and conveys parcel to Aspire House for solar canopy

Marion County commissioners voted Dec. 16 to transfer six county-owned vacant lots to the Department of Metropolitan Development (DMD) for redevelopment as part of the county's Vacant to Vibrant program, and separately approved conveyance of parcel 1014130 (1006 Udell St.) to nonprofit Aspire House for a solar canopy and community green-energy learning space.

DMD staff presented the six-parcel transfer, saying the properties were offered at the 2024 Marion County tax sale but did not sell and are now considered suitable for redevelopment. DMD recommended approval and noted the parcels will be processed under the Vacant to Vibrant application types: market-reflective pricing, an affordable option with a $5,000 flat fee, and a homestead option that provides a 20% discount. DMD also explained that improved parcels carry a $1,500 fee while vacant lots carry a $600 fee.

"At this time, staff recommends approving the transfer of the 6 parcels referenced on the agenda to DMD," a DMD representative told the board. Commissioners asked about application review and design oversight; DMD said applicants must submit a scope of work, proof of funds and, for new construction, architectural plans that will be reviewed against infill guidelines and by the city architect.

Separately, the board considered a nonprofit conveyance request from Aspire House for parcel 1014130 at 1006 Udell Street. An Aspire House representative described plans for a green-energy learning lab featuring "a solar canopy, a tree forest, and outdoor community gathering space," and said the parcel is needed in part to meet a deadline for solar-installation tax credits. DMD staff read deed conditions that will accompany the conveyance, including maintenance standards required by the Department of Business and Neighborhood Services and the Health and Hospital Corporation, a two-year deadline to complete construction or rehabilitation from conveyance, progress reports due at 6, 12, 18 and 24 months, and a tax‑current requirement under IC 6-1.1-24-6.7. The deed language says noncompliance can cause the property to revert to county control and bar future eligibility.

Commissioners approved both measures by voice vote. President Joseph O'Connor declared the motions carried and DMD said it will present a conforming intergovernmental transfer resolution for signature at the January meeting.

Deed conditions, application fees and progress-reporting requirements were detailed during the proceedings; the record shows no roll-call tallies were recorded in the public verbal vote.