City-County Council approves numerous financial measures

The Indianapolis City-County Council held a full meeting Monday night with several key financial proposals moving forward.

Council members approved the appropriation of more than $200 million in federal relief funding. The bulk of the package is $150 million for the city’s violence reduction strategy, including $9 million for IMPD technology, 100 new IMPD officer positions, $45 million over the next three years for grassroots organizations, $30 million for mental health resources, and more.

The appropriation also includes $20 million in additional funding for IndyRent rental assistance program, money for affordable housing initiatives and investment in city parks.

Another $27 million in federal funding was approved for a property tax credit for Marion County homeowners. Property owners occupying a homestead with an assessed value of less than $250,000 will receive a credit of $150; property owners with an assessed value of between $250,000 and $400,000 will receive a credit of $100. 

City of Indianapolis Controller Ken Clark explained how the property tax relief will work.

“There will be a credit that we will provide to the treasure directly at the beginning of the year once the bills are being generated,” Clark said.

The one-time credit will appear on Spring 2023 property tax bills. City officials said more than  191,000 homesteads are expected to receive the credit.

A proposal to purchase two public restrooms and cleaning facilities for people experiencing homelessness was approved.  Deputy Director Carlette Duffy says one site will be at Old City Hall, 202 Alabama Street.

“And the other site,” Duffy said, “we’re still working with the community to determine where that location will be.”

A new Housing TIF district in Martindale-Brightwood was also given final approval.  The plans include housing development projects that have portions set aside for affordable units.

Contact WFYI city government and policy reporter Jill Sheridan at jsheridan@wfyi.org. Follow on Twitter: @JillASheridan.