Mayor says developer bought Jesse Blue properties; commission approves backlit Charlestown City sign design and retains Wheatley Group

During the Wheatley Group report, the mayor told the commission that a developer has purchased the high-profile Jesse Blue properties in Charlestown City and indicated residents want restaurants, grocery stores and shops at the site. "I was contacted recently and was notified that a developer has purchased the high profile Jesse Blue properties in the city of Charleston with the intent to redevelop," the mayor said.

Wheatley Group reviewed several project updates: the Madison Street Green Alley is at substantial completion but has a remaining balance of $53,000 — "which includes $10,000 in containers," the Wheatley Group representative said — and the 501 Market Street pay request remains pending final inspection and engineer sign-off from American StructurePoint. The representative also reported Marion Group has completed 176 units at the flats and that occupancy is about 50 percent.

The consultant presented two sign renderings for the State Road 62 and Market Street entry. Commissioners discussed materials, sightlines and preserving a seasonal "Santa hat" feature; they favored the design that includes the word "Indiana." A motion to advance that second design for further cost estimation and easement work passed by voice vote.

Commissioners also moved to retain Wheatley Group as the city's consultant for 2026; the motion passed by voice vote. The commission scheduled an executive session for Jan. 15 at 6 p.m. so the developer can present plans and requests to the commission in a private session; staff was tasked with preparing the required public notices.

What happens next: Staff will request cost estimates and easement analysis for the sign, coordinate engineer review on construction punch list items, and prepare materials for the Jan. 15 executive session.