What Happened: A “unity resolution” was unanimously passed by the council.
What it Means: Some opponents of the proposed anti-discrimination ordinance had suggested that a resolution could be passed instead that would proclaim that Carmel is a welcoming place that doesn’t discriminate. Supporters of that idea felt that it would declare to prospective businesses that discrimination would not be tolerated but wouldn’t put the threat of a $500 fine in place. Some councilors said just passing the resolution did nothing because there was no enforcement mechanism. In the end, the anti-discrimination ordinance passed and so the resolution was passed in addition.
What’s Next: Resolution was passed.
What Happened: Spending proposals for 2016 were introduced.
What it Means: The 2016 budget is being considered and several different ordinances were introduced to set salaries for city employees, elected officials and others. There also was an ordinance to set the city’s utility rates for water and sewer, which could be increased but possibly might not affect Carmel homeowners. Tax rates for 2016 were also discussed and Councilor Eric Seidensticker asked why rates were going up if there’s always money left in the budget at the end of each year. Christine Pauley, the incoming clerk-treasurer for the city, also asked about reductions for her department’s budget when she said it’s likely she might have to train nearly a whole new staff with a majority of employees indicating they might not stay on in 2016.
What’s Next: There will be a public hearing in October for the utility rates. A public hearing remains open for the city budget. An ordinance to set taxes payable was tabled. The rest of the ordinances were sent to the Finance, Rules and Administration Committee which meets next on Oct. 15. One exemption is the utility rates which was sent to the Utility, Transportation and Public Safety Committee which meets next on Nov. 15.
What Happened: A public hearing was opened for the Albany Place Planned Unit Development.
What it Means: Drees Homes plans to build 51 lots on 34 acres at the northeast corner of Shelborne Road and 141st Street in Carmel. It is described as an upscale subdivision with home costs ranging from $550,000 to $700,000. One neighbor in attendance, Dee Fox, expressed concerns about the density of the homes being built and suggested that about six lots be dropped from the plan so it doesn’t end up too crowded. City planning currently asks for 1.3 units per acre, but this development would be about 1.5 units per acre. The design includes a lake and three cul-de-sacs throughout the neighborhood streets. There’s one main entrance and exit to the subdivision along 141st Street on a road called Millner Drive.
What’s Next: It was sent to the Land Use, Annexation and Economic Development Committee that meets next on Oct. 19. Any concerned neighbors could possibly be given a chance to speak at that meeting.
