Commission Discussion and Voting: Board member Rickie Sipe spoke in favor of the request, noting that the county must prioritize growth, infrastructure, and expanding the tax base.
Ms. Sipe made a motion to forward a Favorable Recommendation to City Council. Mr. Brand seconded the motion. Voting in favor: Mr. Brand, Mr. Carroll, Mr. Dishman, Ms. Hensley, Mr. LaChat, Ms. Sipe, and Mr. Smith. Voting against: Mr. Landess. Motion carried (7-1), a Favorable recommendation to be forwarded to City Council for introduction at their September 24, 2026 meeting.
DIRECTOR'S REPORT:
Ms. Swackhamer presented the monthly operations report for July 2026, summarizing departmental metrics, active planning initiatives, and legislative developments:
Key Departmental and Policy Updates:
- Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) Revision: She reported that the comprehensive revision of the Unified Development Ordinance officially commenced at the beginning of July 2026. The department is actively seeking local stakeholders and community representatives to serve on stakeholder and advisory committees. She stated that she is currently applying for federal and state planning grants to offset the local matching funds required for the project.
- Data Center Communications: The office continues to receive electronic correspondence and inquiries from the public regarding potential data center developments in Delaware County. All received correspondence is being compiled and forwarded to the Plan Commission members to ensure complete transparency.
- McKinley Overlay District Ordinance: She reported on the McKinley Overlay District Ordinance heard by the Plan Commission in June 2026. Muncie City Council suspended their standard rules in July to vote on and approve the proposal during its first reading. However, the acting mayor subsequently vetoed the ordinance due to concerns regarding specific legal and statutory language. Both the city administration and the McKinley neighborhood group remain in strong support of the overlay district and are collaborating to draft revised language that complies with statutory requirements. A new submission will be presented to the Plan Commission in the coming months.
Board Comments: Mr. Brand commended Ms. Swackhamer, Building Commissioner Tom Fouch, and the entire staff for their hard work. He noted that the high volume of YTD permits and inspections indicates strong positive growth in Delaware County. Ms. Swackhamer thanked the board and praised her team's dedication and resilience in managing a heavy workload.