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Residents urge RDC to back schools; some warn against large TIF reallocation
Summary
During public comment, residents spoke passionately in support of allocating TIF funds to the schools to preserve programs and jobs; one speaker opposed a large TIF allocation, arguing it shifts tax burdens and risks contentious referendum politics.
A number of Brownsburg residents addressed the commission during the public-comment period. Nancy Stinson urged the commission to support the school corporation and allocate the statutory 15% of TIF dollars toward workforce-development and school programs, saying schools underpin the town’s quality of life.
Other speakers reinforced that plea: Anthony Gary (a local real-estate broker) and Rob Bridal (former council and RDC member) argued a short-term bridge from TIF funds could keep the community whole and avoid a divisive referendum. Adrienne Thomas, a recent resident who moved in specifically for the schools, described the personal benefits of school internship programs for her children.
Opposition also appeared during the comment period. John Raybould said he opposed diverting large TIF sums to the school and presented a personal calculation of his property-tax allocation, warning that a referendum could still occur and that large reallocations risk reducing funds for town infrastructure. The exchange underscored local division and the political sensitivity of any TIF allocation decision.
The commission allowed slightly extended time for a few speakers in the interest of equal time and then proceeded to commission discussion.
