New councilor takes over on far east side of Indianapolis

A new councilor for Indianapolis’s City-County Council District 15 has been appointed.

Rena Allen takes over for La Keisha Jackson, who is stepping into her new role as State Senator. Jackson was chosen to fill a seat left empty when Jean Breaux passed away earlier this year. Both women were chosen by Democratic caucuses.

Allen says she is ready to serve all of her constituents.

“I want to make sure that I not only serve but I listen to every concern, right, there's good bad and ugly,” Allen said.

Born in Indianapolis, Allen has a professional background as a health analyst. She has also worked with grassroots groups on social issues, including violence reduction.

Allen names economic development, housing, food access and public safety as top priorities for the far east side.

Jackson had served on the council since 2014. Allen said she is excited to start reaching out.

“I'm trying to make sure I do a lot of community engagement so those that live here live and work here, they know that I'm here and that I'm present,” Allen said.

Contact WFYI city government and policy reporter Jill Sheridan at jsheridan@wfyi.org.