Evansville City Council approves apartment development, tax phase-ins and honors firefighters

By Our Times Staff

The Evansville City Council approved a proposed apartment development on Old Boonville Highway, granted tax phase-ins for two local businesses, advanced zoning changes for urban agriculture and a woodworking business, and recognized the Evansville Fire Department for its service during Monday night’s meeting.

The council also heard an update on emergency response performance from Fire Chief Tony Knight and appointed a new member to the Area Plan Commission.

Apartment development approved after lengthy neighborhood debate

Council members voted 5-4 to approve Resolution R-2026-09, allowing the rezoning of approximately 17 acres at 7900 Old Boonville Highway for a planned apartment community.

The proposed $35 million development would include 216 apartments across five buildings, along with garages, a clubhouse and recreational amenities.

Residents living near the property raised concerns about traffic, speeding, pedestrian safety, water pressure, emergency access and whether Old Boonville Highway could safely accommodate additional vehicles. Several neighbors noted there are no sidewalks or road shoulders in the area, creating concerns for children and pedestrians.

City Engineer Brian Mundy told council members that a traffic impact study had already been completed and that improvements—including a “passing blister” turn lane and roadway modifications—would be required before construction proceeds.

“We will work with the developer to make it as safe as we possibly can,” Mundy said. “We won’t allow corners to be cut.”

Council members also discussed housing demand, infrastructure planning and balancing neighborhood concerns with the city’s need for additional housing.

The resolution passed with Council Members Trockman, Heronemus, Hatfield, Allen and Green voting in favor, while Taylor, Koehler Lindsey, Johnson and Brinkmeyer voted against.

Council advances urban agriculture zoning changes

The council unanimously approved the first reading of Ordinance G-2026-13, which updates the Unified Development Code to allow limited agricultural uses in residential areas.

The proposal was prompted by a resident seeking to operate a small community garden near his home.

Council members discussed how the change could expand neighborhood gardening opportunities while establishing standards for urban agriculture.

The ordinance will return for a second reading and final consideration.

Woodworking business receives zoning approval

Council members also unanimously approved the first reading of Ordinance G-2026-14, rezoning property at 851 E. Riverside Drive to allow a custom woodworking and cabinetry business.

The business plans to manufacture custom cabinets while maintaining a small showroom. During discussion, council members reviewed landscaping and buffering requirements intended to reduce impacts on neighboring properties.

The ordinance will return for a second reading.

Firefighters recognized as Chief shares response data

Council members approved Resolution C-2026-27, recognizing members of the Evansville Fire Department for their service to the community.

Following the resolution, Fire Chief Tony Knight provided an update on department operations.

Knight reported the department has responded to:

• 1,739 EMS calls this year, averaging 67 calls per day
• An average advanced life support response time of 7 minutes, 43 seconds
• 55 structure fires, including five significant building fires
• An average engine response time of 2 minutes, 55 seconds
• An average full-alarm response time of 4 minutes, 55 seconds
• An average emergency room turnaround time of approximately 11 minutes

Knight said the department continues working to improve response times while meeting increasing emergency medical service demands.

Tax phase-ins approved for two businesses

Council members unanimously approved Resolution C-2026-28, confirming a tax phase-in for Escalade Sports at 817 Fulton Avenue.

The project includes rehabilitation of the facility and investment in new manufacturing equipment.

The council also unanimously approved Resolution C-2026-29, confirming a tax phase-in for Qualis Corporation to support facility improvements and new equipment investments.

Area Plan Commission appointment approved

Council members unanimously appointed Paul Green to serve on the Evansville Area Plan Commission.

Public comments address future development

During public comment, resident Christopher Newman urged city leaders to slow future large-scale industrial development, including regional data centers, until additional public discussion can occur regarding infrastructure and long-term community impacts.

The council’s next regular meeting is scheduled for Monday, Aug. 10, at 5:30 p.m. in Room 301 of the Civic Center Complex.

Reporting Credit: Community Power Network–Recorder Tess Bell attended the meeting and provided the reporting and notes that informed this brief. The article was reviewed, verified, and edited by the Our Times editorial staff prior to publication.