Vigo County CIB elects officers, hears convention-center and budget reports

The Vigo County Capital Improvement Board confirmed its officers and reviewed routine operational and financial reports at its Jan. 28 meeting.

During roll call and the nominations process the board acknowledged Mayor Sackburn as president, confirmed Chris Weitzer as treasurer, named Brian Koester secretary and elected Tony Brewer vice president by voice vote. Board members then moved to regular business including updates from convention-center manager Oakview Group and financial consultant Baker Tilly.

Oakview Group reported on December operations, saying the convention center hosted 18 events that month, amounting to about 16 event days and roughly 2,600 attendees for the month. The presenter said monthly gross revenue was about $153,000 (down from a larger anticipated total due to a canceled large event caused by heavy snow) and that year-end closeout figures would be circulated when available.

Kyle Grossman of Baker Tilly reviewed the operating cash flow. He said the year-end cash balance was about $4.6 million after a semiannual bond payment, representing roughly a $1.5 million increase compared with 2024. "This is still approximately $1,500,000 higher than the 2024," Grossman said, and he noted the city’s expected $250,000 contribution was anticipated for the month.

The board also received a brief update that contractors had removed dangerous bricks at the Indiana Theater alley side and that tuckpointing and moisture-management work will proceed when weather improves. Separately, the Chamber reported results from a pilot laser-based crow deterrent downtown, reporting reduced crow presence inside the coverage area and plans for follow-up site visits.

The board set its next regular meeting for Feb. 25, 2026, at 9 a.m. and then adjourned.