Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in New Albany public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
9 issues in public safety
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.
Trail connection to animal care facility
The commission is spending up to $25,000 on engineering design for a trailhead linking the new animal care facility on Grant Line Road to the trail. It will mainly serve volunteers walking dogs, plus accessible parking spots.
Halloween trick-or-treat hours
The board recommends trick-or-treating from 6 to 9 p.m. on Halloween night this year.
Fraudulent wire-transfer email targeting developer
Someone sent a sophisticated fake email pretending to be from a Plan Commission member, demanding the developer wire nearly $5,000 for hearing fees. It was caught, reported to police, and staff are warning everyone: the city will never ask for money by wire.
Door-to-door solicitor permits for AT&T vendor
Board members flagged ongoing door-to-door solicitation on behalf of AT&T without permits, even after solicitors were told to stop. Figspire Management's permit request died when its representative didn't show, and the board put its concerns on the record.
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.
LED street light glare on Center Street
A new LED street light is shining directly into a family's bedroom windows. The board wants neighbor consensus before approving a shield or lower-wattage bulb — a template for how the city handles LED glare complaints.
Homelessness and lack of permanent housing options
Council members said New Albany lacks adequate housing for homeless people, and discussed how a man slept outdoors for a week before getting an apartment. Members hope the episode sparks broader conversation about connecting services and resources.
Harvest Homecoming safety and street restrictions
Main Street will again run the State Street garage during the festival, keeping 75% of revenue. A commissioner questioned whether paid parking should start before noon on setup Thursday, since festival-goers may slip in while downtown workers still need spots.