Boone County Preservation Group applauds state’s apparent reevaluation of LEAP District

Submitted

The Boone County Preservation Group is applauding recent developments indicating that the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) may be reconsidering the scope of its ambitious LEAP Research and Innovation District project.

This shift aligns with the Preservation Group’s longstanding concerns about the project’s impact on local farmland and natural resources, as well as the lack of transparency with the community.

In a significant turn of events, IEDC has placed two houses and their associated land back on the market – potentially at a financial loss. These properties were purchased as part of the LEAP project.

“This move suggests that the anticipated economic returns from the project may not materialize as expected,” Group Member Brian Daggy said. “It’s been more than three years, and the only confirmed LEAP tenant is Lilly. The fact that these properties are back on the market indicates a shift may be happening.”

Additionally, Governor Mike Braun has ordered a forensic audit of the IEDC and its affiliate, Elevate Ventures, in response to allegations of financial mismanagement and lack of transparency. As part of this investigation, all Elevate Ventures funds have been frozen and spending by the IEDC Foundation has been suspended.

“The Boone County Preservation Group and other community members have long raised concerns regarding the LEAP project and the lack of transparency around its finances,” Group Member Jim Love said. “Reckless growth also creates a strain on taxpayers of existing utilities. The Preservation Group has consistently advocated for responsible land development that prioritizes the preservation of the area’s agricultural heritage and natural resources. These recent developments suggest that the state is beginning to acknowledge the validity of these concerns.”

These recent events reinforce the Group’s belief that the government should not act as a property developer, and is not capable of the task.

“Fiscal responsibility and fiscal accountability are not built into the current IEDC model of development,” Daggy added.

While the Preservation Group supports thoughtful economic growth, its members advocate for development that is transparent, fiscally responsible, and respectful of Boone County’s farmland, natural resources, and community identity – and will continue monitoring the situation to ensure these values are upheld.

About the Boone County Preservation Group
Boone County Preservation Group’s mission is to create a unified community voice as it strives to preserve area farmland and natural resources. The organization’s objective is to support responsible land development in Boone County. You can follow the Boone County Preservation Group on Facebook or find out more at preserving-boone-county.org.