MUNCIE – If it is created, a new regional group could build airports and other transportation projects, foster both economic development and greenway trails.
But one thing it cannot do: participate in the proposed Mounds Lake project.
Delaware County Council members, who had raised questions about the proposed East Central Indiana Regional Development Authority at recent meetings, have agreed to give the proposal another chance.
County council has called a special meeting for 5:30 p.m. Thursday on the third floor of the county building for introduction of an ordinance to create the RDA.
Council member Mike Jones, who had been outspoken about the RDA in a June council meeting, on Tuesday told The Star Press that the ordinance had been changed. Jones noted that he wasn’t certain, however, if the revised ordinance would win the approval of either council or state officials.
“We can amend the ordinance, but if it’s just going to be turned down ...” Jones said.
One prominent section of the ordinance for consideration on Thursday: “Restriction of powers: Notwithstanding anything to the contrary, in no event shall the authority have the power to, nor shall it participate in, the exploration or construction of the proposed reservoir known as ‘Mounds Lake,’ or any similar project that a majority of the members have rejected by adopted resolution.”
County council and the county commissioners voted against the Mounds Lake proposal, which is still being considered by town officials in Daleville and Yorktown.
Jones said only Henry County had joined the RDA so far out of an original group that also included Delaware, Blackford, Jay, Madison and Randolph counties.