Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in New Albany public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
4 issues in public safety with high priority
Police cars and fire equipment funding
A second-reading ordinance would appropriate and transfer funds for new police cars and fire equipment — an investment in emergency response for the whole city. Public comment is scheduled before the vote.
Alley traffic safety near Reno Avenue
Residents of the 2100 block of Reno Avenue say drivers treat the alley like a racetrack — one child was nearly hit, and a neighbor was allegedly threatened with a gun after reporting speeders. The board installed warning signs and is having the engineer evaluate a stop sign.
$15,000 food pantry appropriation for Hope Southern Indiana
Hope Southern Indiana's pantry is seeing a 22% jump in demand and 100+ new families a month, worsened by the library pantry dropping USDA donations. The city's opioid settlement money would feed about 125 more people.
Library food pantry closure gap
The county library's food pantry — serving 563 people a month — is closing, and the city didn't cause it but may fund a stopgap. Committee members agreed unanimously that some funding source is needed while community groups organize a longer-term solution; nothing was voted on tonight.