(Batesville, IN) – Batesville City Council voted 4-1 Monday night to approve the Batesville Memorial Public Library’s (BMPL) request to sell $6.1 million in bonds for the proposed Arts and Innovation Hub that would be built in the block directly south of the library.
An overflow crowd packed Council Chambers to hear the presentation and to speak either for or against the proposal.
The library is planning this initiative in collaboration with the Batesville Community School Corporation, the Batesville Area Arts Council, C.R.E.A.T.E. Foundation, St. Louis Catholic School, and Oldenburg Academy.
According to a handout provided by the library at the council meeting, the goals include driving economic development, providing space and resources for content creators, supporting workforce development and small business incubation, enhancing STEM education, and becoming a regional magnet for learning.
The bond issuance is expected to take place in the fall of 2024, with construction on the estimated 8,000-square-foot facility slated to begin in 2025.
Library Board member Mark Masavage says the bond offers BMPL a line of credit.
“We are going to be seeking other funds to help either offset the bond or add additional space,” Masavage said.
Other funding sources include grants and READI 2.0 money if available and awarded.
Councilman Tracy Rohlfing cast the lone “no” vote.
“My taxes are going up four percent, as is everyone else’s (as a result of the bond approval),” Rohlfing said. “I feel that this is a tough time for families. I consider inflation a tax and inflation in the last two years has been out of control. While some can afford it, others cannot.”
Rohlfing made a motion to table the matter until next month to give residents additional information and more of a say on the issue. The motion failed by a 4 “no” and 1 “yes” margin.
Council then voted to approve the bond issuance.
An overwhelming majority of those who addressed council spoke in support of the project.
