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HomeMy WebLinkAboutJuly 7, 2025 Council Minutes COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF JEFFERSONVILLE, INDIANA July 7, 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes The Common Council of the City of Jeffersonville, Indiana met for the Regular Meeting on July 7, 2025. Council President Stoner along with City Clerk Gill called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. The meeting was open to the public in person as well as live streamed via the City Website using Zoom. INVOCATION: Council Vice President Burns led the invocation. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: ROLL CALL: The roll call was conducted by City Clerk Lisa Gill and present in Council Chambers were Council Vice President Burns, Councilperson Semones, Councilperson Anderson, Council President Stoner, Councilperson Reed, Councilperson Hawkins, Councilperson Snelling. Councilperson White, Councilperson Webb were absent. Let the record reflect that 7 Council Members were present in Council Chambers and 2 absent. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Councilperson Semones made a motion to approve the Minutes for Regular Proceedings on 6/16/2025, seconded by Council Vice President Burns; motion passed, 7-0. Councilperson Semones made a motion to approve the Minutes for the Special Meeting on 6/23/2025, seconded by Council Vice President Burns; motion passed, 7-0. APPROVAL OF AGENDA: Councilperson Reed made a motion to amend the agenda by moving item 14 to the next city council meeting, seconded by Councilperson Anderson; motion passed, 7-0. Councilperson Reed made a motion to approve the agenda as amended, seconded by Councilperson Semones; motion passed, 7-0. CLAIMS TO APPROVE: Civil City$ 2,888,807.48 Councilperson Anderson made a motion approve the Civil City Claims, seconded by Council Vice President Burns; motion passed, 7-0. Parks$ 182,433.16 Council Vice President Burns made a motion approve the Parks Claims, seconded by Councilperson Semones; motion passed, 7-0. REPORT OF THE CLERK: None UNFINISHED BUSINESS 1. Heather Metcalf 2025-OR-28 (PUBLIC HEARING) Ordinance of Additional Appropriation; Passed on 1st and 2nd Reading on June 16, 2025 Council President Stoner announced that a public hearing would now be held regarding the ordinance. He noted that there had been no changes to the ordinance since its prior readings. The floor was opened for public comment, Council President Stoner asked if there was anyone present to speak either in favor of or against the proposed additional appropriation. After a brief pause and receiving no public input, he declared the public hearing closed. He then asked if there was any further discussion from the Council, which no council members had any additional comments. Council Vice President Burns made a motion approve the Ordinance, seconded by Councilperson Reed; motion passed, -0. NEW BUSINESS: 1. Donna Reed/Sheila Dennison Update on Working with Parks to Create a Legacy for Her Son by Adding Accessible Swings to the City's Parks Council President Stoner turned the floor over to Councilperson Donna Reed, who welcomed Ms. Sheila Denison and her family to the meeting. Councilmember Reed praised the Denison family for turning their personal tragedy into a powerful effort to improve the community. She emphasized how meaningful it was that they had partnered with the City to create change that benefits all families, and expressed hope that Sheila's story would inspire others to take action through public channels to leave a legacy. Ms. Sheila Denison began by thanking Councilmember Reed for the invitation and shared her family's story. She expressed heartfelt appreciation to the City for the installation of a new adaptive swing at Kyle Vissing Park, dedicated to the memory of her son, Ezra, who passed away at the age of three. She explained how Ezra's life, though filled with challenges stemming from a brain injury at birth, had been full of joy and strength. Ezra had a deep love of play, and the swing serves not only as a tribute to his spirit but as a symbol of inclusive joy for all children. Sheila emphasized the importance of inclusive play spaces, noting that for children with disabilities, such spaces are essential. She urged the City to continue its efforts in improving accessibility in all public parks, underscoring how easy it is to overlook physical barriers until one is directly affected by them. Ezra's older sister, Leia, then spoke to the Council. She affirmed that kids like Ezra deserve to play just like everyone else and said inclusive parks demonstrate that every child belongs. She emphasized that recognizing and celebrating differences brings beauty and unity to the community. Ezra's cousin,Trey, briefly addressed the Council, offering a heartfelt thank you to the Jeffersonville City Council for helping everyone feel included. Following Trey's remarks, Ms. Denison resumed speaking and offered additional suggestions to enhance inclusivity and accessibility in city parks. Her recommendations included; replacing wood chips and gravel with rubberized flooring to accommodate wheelchairs and mobility aids, installing ramps alongside stairs for easier access to play structures, ensuring that picnic tables and benches are at appropriate heights for wheelchair users, allowing families to gather comfortably. She concluded by recognizing Paul, the Director of Parks, for his work in coordinating the swing installation. She shared that he had surprised the family by choosing yellow—a color that symbolized Ezra as "our sunshine"—making the swing even more meaningful. Ms. Denison closed by thanking the community and the Council for their kindness and support during the past year. She also shared that her family had authored a children's book about inclusion shortly before Ezra's passing and distributed copies to Council members as a token of appreciation. She reminded everyone that the swing is not just playground equipment, but a place where children of all abilities can feel joy and belonging—a space where Ezra's legacy of light and inclusion will live on. 2. Chad Reischl 2025-OR-30(PUBLIC HEARING) Rezoning Request for Property Located at 303 W. Market Street from R4 (Single Family Residential-Old City)to Proposed Zoning CN (Commercial Neighborhood) Council President Stoner introduced the next item on the agenda: Ordinance 2025-OR-30, a request for the rezoning of property located at 303 West Market Street. He then turned the floor over to Planning and Zoning Director Chad Reischl to present the matter. Mr. Reischl began by thanking the Council and noted that the property owners were present at the meeting. The property is located at 303 W. Market Street, diagonally across from Big Four Station. The applicants are requesting a rezoning of the parcel from R-4 (Single-Family Residential)to CN (Commercial Neighborhood). He explained that the CN zoning district permits small-scale commercial uses, and that the area in question is part of a mixed-use downtown district, which already includes a combination of homes and businesses. Mr. Reischl stated that planning staff considers the requested zoning change to be appropriate for the location, which sits at a prominent downtown corner. The applicants intend to retain the existing single-family residence on the property and also introduce small art studios, consistent with the allowable uses under the CN designation. Mr. Reischl confirmed that the rezoning request had previously gone before the Jeffersonville Planning Commission, which gave it a unanimous favorable recommendation. When asked by Council for a summary of the staff opinion, Mr. Reischl elaborated that the proposed CN zoning aligns with the City's vision for the downtown area. He emphasized that the small-scale commercial uses anticipated for the site are not expected to pose any nuisance and would complement existing development patterns. Furthermore, the location offers high visibility from the Big Four Bridge and is well-suited to pedestrian-oriented activity. Mr. Reischl expressed optimism that the proposed use—particularly art studios—would contribute positively to the energy and vibrancy of downtown Jeffersonville. Following the presentation, Councilperson Donna Reed shared her personal support for the request. She stated that she had attended the Planning Commission meeting and found the proposal wonderful. She highlighted that the applicants had owned the property for several years and were clearly invested in both its maintenance and the neighborhood. Councilperson Reed noted that there was one nearby resident who had voiced mild concern, not opposition. Ms. Reed said she followed up with that individual, who simply wanted more communication from the property owner. After the conversation, the individual expressed satisfaction and even offered a warm greeting to Councilperson Reed on July 4th, indicating no further issues. Councilperson Reed concluded her remarks by expressing full support for the rezoning, calling it a positive use of a historic downtown structure that would help bring culture and the arts into the area while also preserving its architectural character. Council President Stoner began the discussion regarding the property rezoning request at 303 West Market Street, currently zoned residential (R-4). He inquired about the current use of the property, asking whether it was occupied as a home or used as an Airbnb. In response, the property owner, Mr. Brian Oldham, came forward and explained that he and his wife purchased the property about three years ago and have been operating it as an Airbnb. Mr. Oldham noted that the property draws visitors, particularly from the Louisville area, who enjoy and appreciate the Jeffersonville community. When asked about future plans for the property, Mr. Oldham stated they anticipate minor renovations aimed at maintaining the historic character of the home while enhancing the use of the property's three existing buildings. The intent is to preserve the architectural integrity of the house while expanding the utility of the additional structures on site. Regarding the intended use of the space, Mr. Oldham explained that the plan includes leasing parts of the property— potentially to their daughter, who is involved in landscape architecture, for classes or workshops.They also hope to attract others interested in hosting unique classes or events that would draw visitors and enliven the area. Council President Stoner acknowledged the applicant's detailed responses and the thoughtful approach to balancing preservation with adaptive reuse. Following the applicant's comments, Council President Stoner opened the floor for any additional questions from Council members. He noted the need to conduct a public hearing as part of the rezoning process and raised a procedural concern regarding constituent feedback from District 1, where the property is located. President Stoner acknowledged that the council customarily consults the representative of the district in question for any known community feedback and noted that the District 1 councilperson was not present at that time. He expressed a slight hesitation due to the absence of direct input from the district representative. In response, Planning Director Chad Reischl clarified that prior to the Plan Commission meeting, he had personally spoken with Councilperson White, who represents District 1. Mr. Reischl reported that Councilperson White had expressed no objections to the rezoning proposal. Council President Stoner thanked Mr. Reischl for the clarification and proceeded to open the public hearing for Ordinance 2025-OR-30. He invited members of the public to speak either in favor of or against the proposed rezoning. No members of the public came forward to comment, and hearing none, President Stoner formally closed the public hearing. Councilperson Snelling made a motion approve the Ordinance, seconded by Councilperson Reed; motion passed, 7-0. 3. David Lewis 2025-R-10 Resolution Requesting Funds From Clark-Floyd Counties Convention & Tourism Bureau to Pay Costs of a Project Designed to Promote Tourism in Jeffersonville: Vintage Fire Museum's "Historic Fire Hall Expansion" Council President Stoner introduced Resolution 2025-R-10, a resolution supporting a request by the Vintage Fire Museum to obtain funding from the Clark-Floyd County Convention and Tourism Bureau.The resolution itself does not seek city funding, but rather serves as an endorsement for the museum's grant application to promote tourism within Jeffersonville. Mitch Hartland, representing the museum, briefly introduced the resolution and invited Curtis Peters, Chair of the Board for the Vintage Fire Museum, to provide further details. Mr. Hartland noted the museum's plan to expand into an adjacent lot to accommodate more visitors and educational programming, as well as to provide protected space for the museum's collection of historic firefighting equipment. Mr. Peters explained that the Vintage Fire Museum is a nationally recognized institution, regarded as one of the top fire museums in the country. The museum serves as a tourist destination, welcoming visitors from 15 to 20 different states per month and multiple foreign countries annually. The facility also engages in fire safety education for school groups, scout troops, and the general public. He emphasized the museum's positive impact on local tourism and its collaborative presence in the NOCO Arts & Cultural District. He further reported that the museum is debt-free following a successful capital campaign and is now seeking support to expand its operations and visitor capacity. Councilperson Reed commented positively on the museum's outreach efforts, including the involvement of Louisville's first female firefighter in guided tours. Council members expressed appreciation for the museum's contribution to local tourism, education, and community engagement. It was reaffirmed that the resolution entails no financial obligation on the part of the city. Councilperson Semones made a motion approve the Resolution, seconded by Council Vice President Burns; motion passed, 7-0. 4. Committee Reports/Comments Council Vice President Burns addressed Council President Stoner and proposed calling an executive session to discuss items related to the police contract. He noted that this would allow the Council to engage in further discussion and clarification. President Stoner asked if there was general agreement among the council members. Several members voiced their agreement. It was suggested that the executive session be scheduled prior to the next Council meeting on July 21 at 5:00 PM. Mr. White was noted to be on vacation, with a likely return date of July 18.The Council agreed to proceed with scheduling but noted the importance of confirming his availability. Council members discussed who should be included in the executive session. It was proposed that Heather, the city's financial advisor, attend for informational purposes, particularly due to the financial implications of the contract. There was no opposition to her attendance. Legal Consultant Larry Wilder advised that only individuals necessary for the purpose of gathering information relevant to the contract could be present during the executive session. Department heads such as HR or Safety Director could be considered if their involvement was pertinent. However,their presence should be limited to information-gathering only and consistent with executive session guidelines.The Council confirmed the executive session will be held on July 21 at 5:00 PM, subject to confirmation of necessary attendees' availability. Mr. Wilder agreed to provide proper notice of the session as required. ATTORNEY COMMENTS: Larry Wilder—No Comment Les Merkley—No Comment DEPARTMENT HEADS: None PUBLIC COMMENTS: None COUNCIL COMMENTS: • Councilperson White—Absent • Council Vice President Burns—No Comment • Councilperson Semones—No Comment • Councilperson Anderson—No Comment • Councilperson Reed—Extended well wishes, hoping everyone had a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July. She offered special thanks to the city's first responders for their service over the holiday weekend, particularly for their prompt response to several emergency calls in District 5, including medical emergencies. She also provided an update regarding Camp Kara, a program supported by the Council. Mrs. Reed also reported that 10 Jeffersonville children participated in the camp the previous week and had a wonderful experience. She noted that more Jeffersonville children were attending the camp during the current week,free of charge, as a result of the Council's continued support. She plans to visit the camp to see those children in person. • Councilperson Webb—Absent • Councilperson Hawkins—Extended his appreciation to Sheila Dennison,who had spoken earlier in the meeting,for sharing her story. He specifically praised her daughter for her outstanding public speaking, noting her exceptional diction and pronunciation. He humorously invited her daughter to come teach his senior students those skills, expressing sincere admiration for her poise and delivery. He asked that his gratitude and compliments be passed along to Sheila. • Councilperson Snelling—No Comment • Council President Stoner—No Comment ADJOURNMENT: Council President Stoner made the motion to ADJOURN the meeting at 06:29 p.m. DISCLAIMER: These minutes are a summary of actions taken at the Jeffersonville City Council meetings. The full video archive of the meeting is available for viewing at www.cityofjeff.net for as long as this media is supported. APP OVED BY• Evan Stoner, ouncil President ATTEST: isa Gill, Clerk I