Loogootee, Ind. (March 9, 2026) — The Loogootee City Council tackled a full agenda Monday night, approving the purchase of a new emergency response vehicle, discussing parking reconfigurations to accommodate downtown growth, and celebrating progress on a $15 million workforce housing development.
Present at the Common Council Meeting were Mayor Brian Ader, Dave Smith, Mark McAtee, Jeremy Holland, Mike Engleman, Carroll Rayhill, and Attorney Steven Teverbaugh.
Present at The Board of Works Meeting were Mayor Brian Ader, Mark McAtee, Brandon Carrico, Danny Clark, and Attorney Steven Teverbaugh.
Council Unanimously Backs New Medical Response Vehicle
After approving minutes from February’s meetings, council attention turned to urgent public safety needs. Fire department officials presented a detailed case for replacing Squad Three’s aging 2002 two-wheel drive truck with a new, four-wheel-drive Ford F-350 extended cab, citing reliability, safety, and the growing demands of community outreach and medical response.
“We lack a reliable, dedicated vehicle with the necessary towing capacity to transport vital education tools and equipment safely to community events,” fire officials explained. “Our current truck is 24 years old. Maintenance costs are rising, and it’s limited by Indiana weather and rural terrain. This new vehicle will ensure our department can respond efficiently for years to come.”
The department compared multiple bids and models, ultimately recommending the $55,432 Ford F-350 for its balance of size, power, warranty, and price. “Ford’s extended cab gives us the right mix of maneuverability and capacity,” one member noted. “Other options were $10,000 to $13,000 more.”
Councilors debated whether to source the vehicle from Missouri—where the best price was found—or keep the purchase local. “I’d prefer to buy in Indiana, even if it’s a bit more. Supporting local businesses matters,” said a Council Member, “… but we need this truck for the safety of our community.”
A motion passed to approve the purchase, with a preference for buying from an Indiana dealer if a comparable offer could be secured. Funding will be finalized in consultation with city trustees, who were encouraged to contribute more given the county-wide benefits.
“This is an investment in public safety and our city’s future,” The Loogootee Fire Chief said. “We’re grateful to the department for seeking donations and grants to offset costs, and to everyone who’s stepped up to help.”
Downtown Parking and Senior Access Take Center Stage
The council next reviewed proposed parking changes to accommodate new businesses and growing activity downtown, particularly along North Line Street.
City engineers outlined a plan to convert a block of North Line Street to one-way traffic, allowing for additional angled and parallel parking spaces near new businesses and the New Beginnings Church. “We can add up to 12 spaces in front of the barbershop and new businesses, and possibly another on the west side by the playground,” explained the city engineer. “This is about facilitating growth and making downtown accessible.”
Councilors debated whether to extend one-way designations to nearby streets and how to balance business, apartment, and church parking needs. “We need to look at the big picture,” said Council Member Dana. “Changes like this can help us bring new life to Old Town and ensure we’re ready as more businesses move in.”
Dedicated parking for senior citizens was also discussed. The city will mark central spaces near the municipal building for seniors and add additional handicap spots. “With the senior center’s activities growing, we owe them convenient, safe parking,” said Council Member Jessica. Plans include new signage and possible fines for unauthorized parking in reserved spaces.
The council also discussed improvements to the senior center building, including ADA-compliant doors and bathroom upgrades. “We’re pursuing grants to fund these vital accessibility improvements,” Jessica said. “Every resident deserves to feel welcome and included.”
Major Progress on Oak Street Village Workforce Housing
In a highlight of the meeting, city staff shared updates on the Oak Street Village Development, a $15 million investment that will bring 50 units of workforce housing and a childcare facility to Loogootee. The project, developed in partnership with local and regional agencies, aims to address the critical need for affordable housing for working families.
Interest in the development has been strong: “We’ve already had 48 inquiries for the 50 units,” JBH Ventures Owner, Joe WhiteWhite said, “What’s encouraging is that 88% of those are from Martin or Daviess County. This shows the need is real and local.”
Pre-leasing is scheduled to begin in September, and residents expressed strong support during public comment. “This is what our community needs to keep families here and attract new ones,” White said, “It’s exciting to see real progress.”
Minor issues such as water runoff and parking are being addressed as part of the site plan. The council praised the project’s momentum and the positive community feedback. “This development will be transformative,” Mayor Ader said. “Not just for affordable housing, but for economic growth and quality of life.”
Police Canine Program and Fire Radios Get Green Light
The police department requested and received preliminary approval to seek $15,000 in funding for a new canine program. “A K-9 unit will enhance our ability to fight crime and protect the community,” Police Chief [Name] said. The council voiced broad support, encouraging the department to seek grants and donations to offset costs.
Meanwhile, the fire department received 20 replacement radios, addressing concerns about aging communication equipment. “Reliable radios are essential for responder safety and interagency coordination, especially as we work more closely with neighboring departments,” the fire chief said.
Council members discussed the importance of seeking county trustee support for major equipment purchases, given the regional nature of emergency response. “We know the trustees have resources,” said Council Member Dana. “It’s time they step up to help fund these vital upgrades.”
Utility Adjustments, Property Cleanup, and Financial Corrections
The council also discussed a 504,700-gallon sewer adjustment related to an abandoned house, part of ongoing efforts to modernize utility billing and infrastructure.
A quote for property cleanup was also approved, targeting blighted properties and supporting neighborhood revitalization.
During the financial report, the council discussed transferring funds to correct negative balances flagged in a recent audit, ensuring that dollars intended for the fire department and other accounts are properly allocated. “We’re committed to transparency and fiscal responsibility,” Mayor Ader said.
Community Projects and Upcoming Improvements
Updates were provided on several other community projects:
- City Park Exercise Equipment: Installation has been delayed by winter weather, but work is expected to resume next month.
- Historic Building Improvements: The city is seeking a grant, in partnership with AARP and Patronicity, to fund up to $50,000 in improvements to the senior center and other historic properties. “We’ll match community dollars and leverage every resource to preserve our city’s heritage,” Jessica said.
- ADA Upgrades: All bathrooms at the senior center are now ADA-compliant and unisex; exterior doors and windows are slated for future upgrades as grant funding becomes available.
Public Comment and Next Steps
Residents in attendance voiced support for the housing development and praised the city’s efforts to upgrade public safety equipment and downtown infrastructure.
“We’re seeing real investment in Loogootee’s future,” said one attendee. “It’s good to see the council working together to serve everyone—from seniors to young families.”
The council adjourned after more than 90 minutes, with plans to revisit parking proposals and finalize emergency vehicle funding at the next meeting.