SPECIAL COMMITTEE FORMED TO EXPEDITE AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN

Last week, the American Rescue Plan was signed into law. As part of this plan, the City of New Albany is expected to receive $16.83 million to reinvest.

At last night’s City Council meeting, Mayor Jeff Gahan requested that the council form a special committee to help expedite the American Rescue Plan and to move those funds into service to the people and organizations of the City of New Albany as soon as possible.

The City Council established a special committee of 3 Councilman: Councilman Jason Applegate (D), Councilman Pat McLaughlin (D), Councilman David Aebersold (R).

Funding is expected to come in 2 phases, with the first phase of funding expected within the next 60 days, and the second phase occurring approximately one year later.

A copy of the letter from Mayor Gahan to the City Council can be found by clicking HERE

STATE AUDIT CONFIRMS EXCEPTIONAL FINANCIALS AFTER CITY ENDS 9th YEAR IN A ROW UNDER BUDGET

The city ended the 2020 year under budget once again. This marks the 9th year in a row that the administration has balanced the city budget.

“Many thanks to City Controller Linda Moeller and her team for her oversight in keeping the city on track,” stated Mayor Jeff Gahan.

The State Board of Accounts audit of the city’s financial showed no negative findings of any kind, confirming that the city is following all proper financial controls and procedures.

The Indiana State Board of Accounts examines all accounts and financial affairs of public entities within the State of Indiana, and aims to provide its citizens with complete confidence in the integrity and financial accountability of state and local government.

A Statement from Mayor Gahan on the American Rescue Plan

Today, the US House of Representatives is voting on the American Rescue Plan. This plan has immense impacts on local government, including offering $350 billion to help local governments bridge budget shortfalls and mitigate the fiscal shock from COVID-19.

Additionally, the bill provides $1,400 direct payments to individuals, emergency paid leave for over 100 million Americans, grants to help local small businesses, additional unemployment benefits, education funding, COVID-19 funding, and more. This plan, if passed, would provide huge benefits to local governments and residents.

Former Indiana Senator Joe Donnelly stated in the IndyStar that, “Poll after poll shows this bill has clear bipartisan support. But even if you don’t believe the polling – believe the words of Carmel Mayor Jim Brainard, New Albany Mayor Jeff Gahan, Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett and Gary Mayor Jerome Prince. These bipartisan mayors, representing diverse parts of the state, all signed onto a letter to Congress last month calling for “immediate action” on the bill.”

Now, a month later, I am once again calling on Congress to pass the American Rescue Plan and get much-needed help to New Albany residents. The COVID-19 Pandemic has brought immense challenges to our River City, but passing the American Rescue Plan will be a major step in getting our Nation back to normal.

-Mayor Jeff Gahan

🚧⚠🚧 POTHOLE HOTLINE 🚧⚠🚧

🚧⚠🚧 POTHOLE HOTLINE 🚧⚠🚧

Street Department crews are working to repair potholes and other damage to city streets caused by the recent ice and winter storms. Most potholes appear in late winter and the early spring due to excessive water from the freezing and melting cycle, which weakens the pavement and leads to cracks and potholes.

To report a pothole, please call the City of New Albany’s Pothole Hotline at 812-948-5352.

Ohio River Nears Flood Stage

The Ohio River continues to rise, currently sitting around 52 ft. “Flood Stage” begins when water levels reach 55 feet.

Due to the rising water levels, some of the city’s lowest-elevation roads need to be closed. As of this morning, Water Street has been closed from East 6th Street to the Sherman Minton Bridge. This road will likely be closed through next week. Flood Control and Stormwater crews are also monitoring Old Ford Road and Armstrong Bend for possible closures later today. As water levels continue to rise, other road closures are possible. Current projections show that the Ohio River could rise to over 60 feet by the weekend.

Crews are also continuously clearing clogged catch basins, and monitoring areas throughout the city for signs of high water. Catch basins can become clogged with litter or leaves and cause localized flooding. Please help keep our catch basins clean and our stormwater system operating properly by not littering.

To report clogged catch basins, high water, or other stormwater-related issues, please contact the Stormwater Office at 812-945-1989.

REMINDER: PLEASE DO NOT DRIVE THROUGH FLOODED ROADWAYS.

CREWS PREPARE FOR POSSIBLE “FLOOD STAGE”

With the melting of recent snows coupled with heavy rainfall, projections are showing the Ohio River rising. Current projections show that we could reach “Flood Stage” (where the Ohio River is at 55 feet) by next weekend. Ground conditions are quite saturated, and residents should be aware of the potential for localized flooding.

Stormwater crews have currently been dispatched to double-check and clear any clogged catch basins, as well as monitoring areas for signs of high water. Catch basins can become clogged with litter or leaves and cause localized flooding. Please help keep our catch basins clean and our stormwater system operating properly by not littering.

To report clogged catch basins, high water, or other stormwater-related issues, please contact the Stormwater Office at 812-945-1989.