Commentary by Jeff Papa
This November, our election ballot will contain the question of whether Zionsville and Perry Township should reorganize into the new Town of Zionsville. A “yes” vote on this question helps our community once again take an innovative and historic step forward. In 2010, Zionsville, Union Township, and Eagle Township partnered as equals and the voters approved the first successful reorganization in Indiana history, creating a unique solution of government consolidation, cooperation, and efficiency.
In 2014, we have the opportunity to join with our neighbors in Perry Township to create even more cooperation and innovative change. Zionsville is now the third largest town in the state by population, and largest by geographic area. We have over 100 full-time employees, and multiple professional departments, such as fire, police, parks, streets, planning and economic development, storm water, and wastewater. Currently, the town is overseen by seven part-time council members; it is time for Zionsville to have a mayor.
Passing the reorganization this November will address several issues, including creating an elected mayor for Zionsville. Without reorganization, Zionsville could only have a mayor by becoming a city. This is not an option for Zionsville; converting to a city would be incredibly expensive, erase the innovative changes of the 2010 reorganization, and remove the charm of our village identity.
By voting “yes,” we can remain a town, but elect a mayor to be a strong, full-time leader – directly accountable to the voters – who can assist citizens with concerns, plan for the future, negotiate with investors, quickly resolve emergencies, and oversee our hard-working, professional departments, in conjunction with the town council.
You are invited to read the complete plan of reorganization, and all of its details and benefits, including an in-depth fiscal analysis, at www.zionsville-in.gov.
