Fortville resident urges expansion of hometown-hero banner program as demand outpaces spaces

Tom Bunnell, identifying himself as a Fortville resident and the volunteer steward of the town’s hometown-hero banner program, told the council the program is popular but outgrowing its available locations. “Right now, there’s a 103 banners in town, and … I have about 40 or 50 people lined up right now and wanting these banners,” Bunnell said, urging the council to consider ways to add more bracket capacity.

Public-works staff warned that adding dual-arm brackets and poles on Main Street would require both budget and time. Joe (staff) said the planned trail extension could create an opportunity because it will add poles, but cautioned that “I estimated that there's gonna be about 65 to 70 new poles going with that project,” and that dual-arm pole packages for Main Street were priced at roughly $625 per pair, with an estimated $25,000 to outfit the corridor. He also warned of long lead times — possibly nine to 12 months — for ordering replacement poles, which could delay any banner expansion.

Bunnell described current placement practice and a January ordering window to have new banners installed by Memorial Day. “We haven't tried to dictate any locations,” he said, explaining the town typically places banners to avoid perceived favoritism and that some existing banners will come off next season, creating limited availability. Council members agreed to investigate funding sources and logistics, noting the RDC/TIF and staff budget constraints would affect timing.

The council did not take immediate formal action other than to request staff follow up on pole costs, potential funding options, and placement protocols. Bunnell said he will notify the town of demand numbers for a possible January order.