Southeastern Indiana Development Corp. pitches consulting plan to Sunman council

Wayne Jenner, who identified himself as a member of the Southeastern Indiana Development Corporation, told the Sunman town board the organization helped purchase about 40 acres south of town years ago and has been investing proceeds from that project in stocks and bonds to fund future development. "My name is Wayne Jenner. I've been serving on the, committee there for about a year and 0.5 now," he said.

Jenner described the group's mission "to promote and encourage through corporate efforts with the town of Sunman" new industry, rehabilitate businesses and expand housing opportunities. He said the group recommends hiring Civetas, a strategic-planning firm in Indianapolis, for one year of consulting at an estimated cost "about $72,000," with the development corporation willing to pay most of that and the town free to contribute if it wishes.

Supporters said the effort could advance goals in the town's comprehensive plan—especially housing and senior housing—by preparing sites and connecting developers to utilities and grants. Jenner said the group has tried working independently but believes professional planners would bring developer contacts and site preparation expertise.

The board asked practical questions about water and sewer availability and whether the town would need to enter contracts if it provided co-funding; staff said utilities are available at candidate sites but that any town contribution would require a formal contract. Jenner suggested a redevelopment/economic commission be created to oversee planning and funding and proposed that commission composition mirror the draft ordinance discussed later in the meeting.