Highland, Indiana Development News
GatherGov Agents listens to meetings 24/7 delivering the latest real estate development updates, legislation, and news.
Development News from the latest meeting
Town of Highland, IN - Town Council Study Session & Plenary Meeting and Redevelopment Commission Study Session & Plenary Meeting
Published: Jul 7, 2026
Council Debates Wheel Tax Adjustments, Considers Trailer Fee Reduction and Handicap Exemption
The council discussed proposed amendments to the wheel tax ordinance, including adjustments to fees for various vehicle types such as recreational vehicles, trailers, buses, passenger vehicles, motorcycles, and trucks. A key discussion point was the fee for semi-trailers, with a proposed reduction from $40 to $10, which was met with concern from a local business owner who indicated they might register their trailers elsewhere if the fee remained high. The council also considered adding an exemption for vehicles with handicap plates. The ordinance is intended to help secure matching funds from the state for road repairs. A sunset provision was also discussed in case state grant funding is terminated. The proposed implementation date for the new wheel tax is January 7th of the following year, requiring passage by September 1st.
Council Considers $600,000 Easement Sale to Fund Upcoming Project
The council discussed the potential sale of an easement by TLC Properties to Highland for $600,000. This offer is based on a program from the previous year. The funds generated from this sale are intended to be put towards an upcoming project. A letter of intent will be signed by the council president to initiate the process of ordering a title and survey, followed by a grant of license.
Merrillville Reports Strong Revenue from Food and Beverage Tax; Funds Earmarked for Development and Parks
The council discussed the food and beverage tax, with a representative from Merrillville reporting zero backlash and significant revenue generation, averaging between $165,000 to $175,000 monthly. These funds are earmarked for economic development, tourism, and parks and recreation. Merrillville has spent approximately $250,000-$350,000 on operational costs for a community center and has accumulated nearly $2.4 million since starting the tax in February. Potential uses include funding a park board with bonding authority and supporting debt service on bonds for park development. Another municipality, Sheffield, also reported zero backlash from their food and beverage tax. The discussion highlighted the importance of innovative funding mechanisms for municipalities.
Redevelopment Commission Approves Gateway Corridors Plan, Advances Water Line Project, and Delays Decision on Commercial Grant
The Redevelopment Commission discussed Resolution 2026-15 to adopt the Highland Indiana Gateway Corridors Redevelopment Plan. The Plan Commission had previously reviewed and approved the plan with minor modifications. The Commission also reviewed Resolution 2026-16, a joint resolution with the Water Board to accept and award the bid for the dual water line construction to Grimmer Construction. The Redevelopment Commission's portion of the cost is $688,594, with an additional $43,000 for engineering costs, totaling $731,594. Funding for this project is expected to come from the sale of the Lamar sign, with any remaining balance covered by the redevelopment fund. Finally, a commercial grant application from Alpha K LLC for painting their building at 9400 Indianapolis Boulevard was reviewed. The total project cost is $18,150, which is below the $25,000 threshold for prioritized grant consideration. Commissioners expressed reservations, suggesting painting is maintenance rather than an improvement and that funds might be better allocated to larger projects. No immediate decision was made on the grant application.
Council Reflects on Fireworks Incident, Praises New Park Superintendent Amidst Challenges
The council discussed a past incident involving fireworks during a festival, noting that the vendor involved had experienced similar accidents only three times in 40 years. While acknowledging a love for fireworks, some council members expressed concerns about the cost and potential dangers, suggesting a cessation of fireworks displays to save money and eliminate risks. The decision on future fireworks contracts was noted to fall under the park board's purview. Additionally, a special commendation was given to Mindy Ray, the new park superintendent, for her effective management through several challenging events, including storms, Red Cross operations, festival weather disruptions, and the fireworks incident, demonstrating strong leadership and collaboration with other departments.
Get Weekly Development News of Highland
Get it now for $25/year. Stay ahead of market moving news.
From $25/year
The Highland News archive
2026 July Special STOH Board Meeting
Town of Highland, IN - Plan Commission Study Session
Town of Highland, IN - Board of Zoning Appeals Regular Meeting
Town of Highland, IN - Town Council Plenary Meeting & Study Session and Redevelopment Commission Plenary Meeting
2026 June STOH Board Meeting
Town of Highland, IN - Town Council Plenary Meeting & Study Session and Redevelopment Study Session
Get it now for $25/year. Stay ahead of market moving news. Get your edge today.
GatherGov Market Intelligence
For Owners & Developers
See entitlement risk and deploy capital where there is the highest probability of return
For AEC
Win more projects by discovering opportunities before your competitors do.
Frequently Asked Questions About Highland ,Indiana Real Estate Development
Get Weekly Development News of Highland, Indiana | From $25/year