Huntingburg Playground to Receive Major Upgrade

The Huntingburg Common Council moved forward on several administrative and utility matters this week while also discussing future improvements throughout the community. 

City Attorney Phil Schneider led the Council in a discussion about the Huntingburg Main Park Playground Fund, located just south of the north parking lot at League Stadium. Grant funding has been received to install all new playground equipment. Significant funding has also been provided by private individuals. In order for the Park board to be authorized to accept those restricted donations, the Council passed Ordinance 2026-32 to establish the Huntingburg Main Park Playground Fund. 

Schneider explained that the city’s natural gas utility purchases are managed by the Utility Gas Management Company. They manage all the city’s gas purchases other than those made through PEFA (Public Energy Facilities Authority). Huntingburg has held a contract with the company since May of 2013, and their management charge has not been raised during that time. There will be a 33% increase in those charges for the next contract term. This is not an increase in the price of the gas purchased. With a consensus that the service is necessary, the board passed Resolution 2026-30, Authorizing an Amendment to the Natural Gas Management Agreement. 

Clerk-Treasurer Thomas Dippel introduced Ordinance 2026-31 to Transfer Appropriations from one Major Budget Classification to another within the Various Departments. Dippel explained that the budget process provides estimates, but adjustments need to be made at the end of the year to account for shortfalls or surplus funds. The board unanimously passed the Ordinance. 

The board talked about ideas for Huntingburg beautification, particularly along Highway 231. Suggestions included asking property owners to plant shrubbery along unsightly views and reaching out to local organizations like Destination Huntingburg. Local realtors might also be a good resource. In addition, members discussed the possibility of creating a timeline for the initiative, encouraging businesses, private citizens, and property owners to participate with specific goals in mind. The Council will continue to explore options, including a possible committee to spearhead the project. 
 
For more information on these and other updates, visit www.huntingburg-in.gov


- By Drew Hasselbring