Timothy Cochran

The meeting commenced with introductions and acknowledgment of new members. Key discussion points centered on procedural matters, specifically electing a new secretary to record minutes. A significant portion of the discussion involved the Tree City USA requirements, necessitating the collection of expenditure data related to tree care, removal, and planting from the Parks Director and the new DPW director. The Commission also addressed the ongoing federal grant money, which provides substantial reimbursable funds for future planting projects, scheduled potentially for 2026, though procedural questions regarding initial funding and reimbursement processes were raised. Additionally, the upcoming "Going Green" event on April 25th was reviewed, noting that tree saplings have been ordered for giveaway.

The Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) hearing convened to discuss a variance petition for Olive Branch Tattoo Collective seeking to relocate to 618 Main Street in Beach Grove. The variance request is necessary because current zoning prohibits tattoo shops within 1,000 feet of a protected district, and the proposed location falls within this restriction due to adjacent neighborhoods. The petitioners argued that strict enforcement would create an unnecessary hardship, preventing them from operating in a thriving town center environment they desire. They highlighted that tattoo studios are heavily regulated by the Marian County Health Department, passing annual inspections, maintaining exposure plans, and ensuring safe disposal of sharps, mitigating public health and safety concerns. Furthermore, the petitioners emphasized their commitment to community welfare through annual fundraising events for local non-profits. The legal representative stated that the Department of Metropolitan Development recommended approval, and the proposed location aligns with the comprehensive plan's vision for the parcel as a village mixed-use area and town center, suggesting the business would benefit neighboring establishments. Operational details revealed the business primarily functions by appointment, generally between 10:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. The board addressed concerns regarding adjacent residential units and signage.

The meeting commenced with the formal opening of the November 2022 meeting. The primary business involved a two-step process to adopt the new consolidated economic and redevelopment plan, including holding a public hearing, which concluded with no public input. The commission subsequently adopted Resolution Number 2025-6, confirming the establishment of an allocation area and amending the existing plan, though the title was subject to correction to remove inaccurate reference to changing allocation areas. The docket for accounts payable vouchers, totaling $1,2911, covering legal services, bond insurance, and public hearing notice publishing, was approved. The approval of the October 16 minutes was completed, and a request to change the September 18 minutes was withdrawn. A significant update was provided regarding substantial progress made by the DPW crew in remediating the landfill, specifically filling in a large erosion channel, which was positively acknowledged by IDM.

The combined board meeting addressed multiple agenda items across the Board of Sanitation & Works and the Board of Public Works and Safety. Key discussions included the approval of wastewater claims and corporate claims. The Board of Public Works and Safety approved the hire of Jackson Miller as a probationary police officer, effective December 22, 2025, with discussion regarding the 1977 Police/Fire Employee Pension Fund. The resignation of Julie Finchum, part-time program assistant at the Hornet Park Community Center, was accepted. The board also reviewed updates to the Payment Asset Management Plan (PAMP) for 2025, presented by United Consulting, and discussed the updated ADA Transition Plan for the pedestrian network provided by Crossroads Engineering. Finally, the Board approved the bid award for the Arlington Avenue and Hannah Avenue Road plans to EMB Paving Incorporated, and an additional request was approved to block off parking spaces for the Fostering Hope charity casino night event.

This master plan outlines the strategic direction for the City of Beech Grove's parks, recreation, and open space system for the period of 2026-2031. The plan aims to create and responsibly manage a citywide system of parks, open spaces, and cultural resources, while providing recreational, cultural, and educational programs to enhance the quality of life for all citizens. Key goals include ensuring sufficient and well-located open spaces, promoting sound environmental practices, fostering strong community partnerships, developing programs that increase inspiration and improve health, and maintaining attractive, safe, and secure park settings. The plan is guided by community feedback and seeks to enhance existing spaces and make room for future developments.