City-County Council to consider forest preservation
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The City-County Council will consider $27 million in spending Monday night, and the Republican minority wants to see a chunk of that go toward protecting Indianapolis' urban forests.
Why it matters: Marion County was once covered almost entirely by forest, but less than 15% remains today. Only a small fraction of that is protected as park and preserve space.
- Several environmentally sensitive properties — including the last flatwood forest — are at risk for development if not soon purchased by someone willing to protect them.
Between the lines: This aligns environmental advocates and pro-economy conservatives.
What they're saying: "Indianapolis' forests aren't just green spaces — they're economic assets that enhance our quality of life and support the local economy," said Minority Leader Michael-Paul Hart.
- Hart told Axios that nature amenities attract more residents, in turn attracting more business development.
What they're proposing: Council Republicans have three amendments to the majority's plan for spending $27 million in supplemental income tax revenue.
- They're suggesting an additional $6.5 million to the Department of Public Works for strip patching to repair potholes.
- They also want to add $1.5 million to the $1 million allocated for stormwater management, which would be used to purchase and preserve urban forest land.
- Republicans have called for a pause on money going to the Office of Public Health and Safety for grants until it presents more details on their projects.
Flashback: Last year, the Indiana Forest Alliance asked the city to allocate $6 million to buy urban forest land.
- The city budget included $1 million.
The last word: "We need to preserve these things because they're not making any more," Hart said. "You can grow a forest, but they don't grow very fast."
What's next: The spending package will be heard during Monday's council meeting at 7pm.