New Palestine Town Council 2/19/2026

MEETING: New Palestine Town Council

Date: 2/19/2026

Recorder: Cathy Cooper

BACKGROUND:

After routine financials and swearing in of new police officer, there was much discussion of several agenda items, most of which were tabled until later date.

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT AGENDA ITEMS AND KEY POINTS:

1.    Proposed ordinance to stagger council members’ terms.  Tabled pending outcome of HB 1055 Municipal Elections

2.    Town Center plans.  Tabled

3.    Community Service Donations 2026.  The council makes charitable donations annually.  Action:  $1500 Zoey’s Place, $1500 Comfort House, $3000 New Pal Main St. Foundation

4.    Lengthy discussion on mechanics of employee evaluations, sick day benefits, clothing allowance (town logo shirts).  One of the council members will develop a draft plan, will get legal input.  Tabled until next meeting

Department Reports

1.    Town Manager presented purchase of truck for Wastewater Dept. for $50K after 3 quotes as required.  Discussion on which budgets to procure the funds: wastewater vs LIT vs combination

2.    Police Chief requests purchase of two police cruisers. Led to discussion for the need to have a record of town’s inventory of vehicles and other equipment

Approved the purchase of truck and two police vehicles.

3.    Police chief requested addition of canine unity.  Approved.

4.    Treasurer reported on this year’s insurance premiums, which increased modestly.  Approved.