(Greensburg, IN) – Greensburg Mayor Joshua Marsh outlined successes and ongoing initiatives during his fifth State of the City address Monday afternoon before the Greensburg Rotary Club.
He began his remarks by saying the city’s finances are in excellent shape, and that the state of the city is strong.
“Clerk-Treasurer Amy Borns, the City Council, the Board of Works, our administration, and all of our team members have all worked together, allowing me to proudly and confidently state that the financial position and the state of our city is strong,” Marsh said. “We are ready to go for 2024 and beyond!”
Among the accomplishments, Marsh cited the work of the utility staff, the police and fire departments, the street department, building and planning, and the city engineer’s office. He says a significant accomplishment was the completion of the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO).
“A UDO brings all the existing development, planning, and zoning ordinances into one updated, detailed ordinance. The UDO makes it easier for developers and builders to do
business in Greensburg and helps us expand our housing and business markets,” he said. “This completes a four-year, three-phase approach to overhaul our comprehensive plan, development ordinances, and design standards.”
Marsh also highlighted building relationships with Japan and Indonesia to help local and international manufacturing and agriculture, respectively.
He also touted completion of the Building Bridges Inclusion Park, which is a playscape for people of all ages and abilities.
With an eye toward the future, Mayor Marsh noted construction of the new Street Department headquarters and Fire Station One along North Broadway near the Bypass is nearing completion.
“The construction of a new building ensures the health and safety of our staff, keeps expensive equipment and materials covered during the rain and snow, and allows for space for staff to work inside. For the first time, we are giving our teammates a place with appropriate restrooms, lunch facilities, and space to thrive as a team,” Marsh said about the new Street Department building.
“Greensburg’s new Fire Station One and headquarters have the safety features, space, training room, and more for a growing fire department,” he said. “It has a separate living space from the apparatus bay to help prevent toxins from spreading to the living areas, space for men and women firefighters, a dedicated physical fitness area, and space for department training.
“Both buildings will improve the quality of work life and will be part of our recruitment and retention strategy. The City Council, Board of Works, and our teams have been unanimously supportive of this growth. I am excited to see this project come to life and see the teams move in, and I hope you will join us for the open
houses this year,” Marsh said.
The mayor concluded by saying much has been accomplished, but there’s much more work ahead.
“We need to usher in changes to access housing, childcare, opportunities for education, and economic advancement while maintaining Greensburg’s charm. We can. I am committed to working every day towards that goal,” Marsh said. “Please join me, embrace it, and welcome those you meet on the street.”
The address was delivered at the Branch Coffeehouse and Gathering Place on the courthouse square downtown.
