Huntingburg RDC Sets Course for 2026

The Huntingburg Redevelopment Commission began its new year with decisions on leadership, spending, and upcoming changes.

The RDC’s 2026 organizational meeting began with the election of officers. The Commission opted to keep the same slate of officers for another year. President Nicholas Stevens, Vice President Joe Bartelt, and Secretary Angelica Cruz all agreed to continue serving in their positions.

In December, Huntingburg Police Chief Kramer received approval from the RDC for a 5-year bodycam contract. The Commission agreed to pay an amount not to exceed $44,808 for 3 of the 5 years. Chief Kramer provided an update on the pricing, which was reduced to $41,648. Docketed claims in the amount of $309,685.94 were approved, most of which were noted to be bond-related charges. There were also several non-docketed claims, totaling $550,817.51, which were primarily bond payments and TIF-related expenses.

A request was made to alter the regular meeting schedule moving forward in order to resolve a scheduling conflict. The meeting date was moved from the third Tuesday of the month to the first Tuesday of the month. Since a public hearing on the OFS economic development area has already been scheduled for February, the earliest time to enact the change would be in March. The RDC voted to move the regular meeting time to the first Tuesday of the month, beginning March 3.

Before adjourning, Mayor Elkins encouraged everyone to visit the new senior center, which has been drawing crowds. The building was described as much more accessible, with easier entrances and exits. Board members said that they had been hearing a lot of positive feedback, and that they expect the center to be a popular addition to the community.

For more information on these and other updates, visit www.huntingburg-in.gov

- By Drew Hasselbring