What happened: The council voted to amend the city’s Economic Development Incentive Resolution, which is used to attract businesses.
What it means: The council discussed changing the word “incentives” to “tax abatements” to help narrow the focus so it’s clear what opportunities are available, but that was eventually decided against since it was too narrow. It was amended to say that for businesses to receive tax abatements, they have to have an average salary of $90,000. The resolution originally said $45,000. Carmel Mayor Jim Brainard said the infrastructure, great schools, etc. should be enough to attract businesses without giving out property tax abatements, which he said should be used sparingly.
What’s next: The higher salary requirement was approved.
What happened: Representatives from the Carmel Historic Preservation Commission and the Carmel Cable and Telecommunications Commission gave reports.
What it means: Mark Dollase, of the CHPC, reported that the commission is working on its application for Certified Local Government, a program of the National Park Service managed by the Indiana Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology. In addition, the Plum Creek HOA received a $10,000 Efroymson Family Fund grant to restore the roof of the Plum Creek Corn Crib. Winston Long of the CCTC said that he’s aware that more people are using streaming services such as Netflix instead of using cable, but it hasn’t affected franchise fees. He also discussed upgrading the video quality of the televised Carmel City Council meetings.
What’s next: New reports will be given in six months.
