Park Board votes to dismiss lawsuit against City of Carmel
Proposed ordinance change addresses concerns regarding impact fee credits
CARMEL, IN - In its first meeting since the City Council passed a resolution outlining proposed changes for the approval of future impact fee credits, the Carmel/Clay Board of Parks and Recreation voted to dismiss the litigation filed against the City of Carmel regarding this matter. Park Board members expressed appreciation for the commitment of Mayor Sue Finkam and the City Council to enhance transparency regarding the issuance of impact fee credits. While the proposed changes must first be reviewed by the Plan Commission before returning to City Council for final adoption, the Park Board’s action demonstrates its confidence that these important changes will be implemented in a timely manner.
“I appreciate the resolution of this issue and would like to thank the Parks Board for taking this action,” says Mayor Sue Finkam. “With this lawsuit behind us, we can focus our valuable resources on providing world-class parks and recreation amenities to residents and visitors for decades to come.”
“Both the City of Carmel and Clay Township have been important partners contributing to the success of Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation (CCPR) and this is an issue we are happy to move beyond,” stated Parks and Recreation Director Michael Klitzing. “Together we can now focus our attention on the future and how best to serve the park and recreation needs of Carmel residents.”
CCPR is currently finalizing its new Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan, which will guide the management and development of the park system for the next five years. Later this year, the Park Board will host a joint meeting with the City Council and Clay Township Board to review recommended priorities and action plans developed based on extensive public input. The master plan will also identify potential funding options necessary to sustain existing infrastructure and construct new amenities requested by the community. An update on the master plan was provided at the January 23, 2024, Park Board meeting, and can be viewed here.
About the City of Carmel, Indiana
The City of Carmel is a thriving suburban community in Central Indiana, and is ranked one of the most livable mid-size U.S. cities. Known nationwide for pioneering urban design, Carmel has received numerous awards for its community amenities, quality of life, business environment and excellent schools, and continues to build community for those who live, work, play and visit the city. For more information, visit www.carmel.in.gov.
About Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation
Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation (CCPR) holds the Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management by the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration (AAPRA) in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) for parks serving populations of 75,001 to 150,000. As an accredited agency, the department serves the recreation, fitness and nature needs of the community, manages and develops existing spaces and resources, and creates a sustainable future for parks and recreation programs through a financially viable and environmentally conscious parks system. CCPR manages and maintains more than 700 park acres and numerous recreation facilities, including the Monon Community Center and The Waterpark. In addition, CCPR has partnered with Carmel Clay Schools to establish Extended School Enrichment (ESE), an after-school care program for K-6 students located at all eleven Carmel elementary schools. The Summer Camp Series is a component of ESE that offers 12 different summer camps accommodating children ages 5-15. For more information, visit carmelclayparks.com.
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