STATEHOUSE (April 25, 2019) – State Rep. Mike Karickhoff’s (R-Kokomo) legislation improving local government efficiency could soon become law.
Karickhoff worked with Accelerate Indiana Municipalities to modernize several local government processes. AIM advocates on behalf of towns throughout the state on important issues.
“City and town officials targeted several areas in state law they felt could be updated to help streamline local government operations,” Karickhoff said. “Local governments should not have to jump through hoops when performing basic, every-day tasks. This legislation ensures they have to tools necessary to keep their communities running smoothly and efficiently.”
The proposal would remove political party affiliation requirements to work on local boards to help cities and towns hire the best talent available. Karickhoff said the change would help ensure the most qualified candidates are sought out and experts are consulted to take care of services without considering partisan affiliation.
According to Karickhoff, provisions in the legislation also improve public property transactions. Under the current Open Door Law, executive sessions can only be held when discussing the purchase of property. This legislation would allow officials to discuss selling as well. Additionally, property bidding could be completed electronically, which the state currently permits but is not in state law.
The bill would also clarify the definition of “unsafe premise” in building code and allow more flexibility in determining bond repayment dates. To save time and resources, fiscal officers could also appropriate funds received for damaged property from a private payment without a formal hearing, even if the payment did not come from an insurance company.
House Enrolled Act 1116 can now be considered by the governor. Visit iga.in.gov to learn more.
-30-
State Rep. Mike Karickhoff (R-Kokomo) represents House District 30, which includes portions of Grant and Howard counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
