The Carmel City Council braved a winter storm Feb. 15 to meet and discuss benefits for city employees forced to miss work because of COVID-19, accessory dwelling units and vacating roads in a vacant neighborhood.
What happened: The council approved an ordinance extending benefits for city employees forced to miss work because of the pandemic.
- What it means: The ordinance outlines various types of leaves, pay rates and requirements during the time away from work. It also states that the city may restrict COVID-19-related leaves for employees who are eligible to be vaccinated but choose not to receive the vaccine.
- What’s next: The benefits are in effect through June 30.
What happened: The council unanimously voted against an ordinance that would have altered the approval process for accessory dwelling units, also known as in-law quarters or granny flats.
- What it means: Originally proposed as a way to expand affordable housing options in the city, many councilors believed regulations added by the Carmel Plan Commission and the city council’s land use committee did little to change the existing process for adding accessory dwelling units, and therefore wouldn’t address the shortage of affordable housing. The council had a deadline of Feb. 17 to act on the proposal before it automatically became law.
- What’s next: Councilors said they are open to revisiting the issue in the future.
What happened: The council voted to vacate Mersey Court, Manchester Court and a portion of Tottenham Drive.
- What it means: The roads are in the Meridian Suburban neighborhood, which was purchased by Meridian Development Services for future development in conjunction with the Franciscan Health Orthopedic Center of Excellence under construction to the north. All residents of the neighborhood moved out by 2020.
- What’s next: The empty homes have been used for training purposes by local first responders, but they are expected to be demolished soon.
