Includes property tax rate decrease, historic investment in neighborhood vibrancy
The Fishers City Council approved the proposed 2024 City Budget Monday evening at the October City Council meeting. The vote follows the September City Council meeting’s public hearing and first reading, alongside several public meetings held since August 2023 to provide details of the proposed budget to members of the City Council and the public.
The 2024 budget showcases a significant investment in operational excellence, health, safety, and quality of life. Notably, property tax rates will decrease for the third consecutive year, marking the lowest rate since 2020.
Fadness
“The adoption of the 2024 budget reflects our unwavering commitment to the people of Fishers to continue building a smart, vibrant, and entrepreneurial community all while holding ourselves accountable to fiscal responsibility,” Mayor Scott Fadness said. “By prioritizing historic investments in neighborhood vibrancy, we’re directly enhancing the lives of residents. This budget isn’t just a financial plan; it’s an investment in the pulse of the city – our community, neighborhoods, and schools.”
Highlights of the 2024 Fishers City Budget include:
Major project investments
Pivotal projects in 2024 include the completion and openings of the Fishers Municipal and Art Center, the Fishers Event Center, and completing the State Road 37 and 141st Street Interchange. Also, construction for the Fishers Community Center at Johnson Farm is slated to begin in 2024.
Road & infrastructure
City officials will prioritize several infrastructure investments, including roundabout installations at 126th Street and Southeastern Avenue and 96th Street and Allisonville Road, as well as road widening projects including 136th Street from Southeastern Avenue to Prairie Baptist Road. Design for the new 116th Street and Allisonville Road roundabout will launch in 2024 with a 2025 construction.
Trail connectivity & engagement
Investments in trail connectivity and addressing trail gaps are central to the 2024 budget. Three new trail connections are proposed alongside the establishment of a trail node at Hub & Spoke, enhancing connectivity and trailside amenities for residents.
Neighborhood & community vibrancy
Historic investments are planned for neighborhood vibrancy and long-term sustainability, including investments in sidewalk repairs across multiple neighborhoods, urban forestry with the planting of 2,000 trees, and the revitalization of the 96th Street corridor. Neighborhood Vibrancy Grant allocation will increase from $100,000 to $750,000, funding projects related to entrance upgrades, pond and greenspace maintenance, sidewalk connections, and community spaces within residential neighborhoods.
Continued investment in public safety & critical services
The 2024 budget underscores city officials’ dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of residents with the addition of three new firefighters and police officers, two School Resource Officers, and a forensic tech. Additionally, the Fishers Health Department will add a new health inspector and public health nurse position.
Educational innovation
In a first-ever initiative, the budget introduces a Teacher Innovation Micro-Grant Program for Hamilton Southeastern School District teachers, allocating $500,000 to foster innovative learning and professional development within the classroom.
Learn more about the 2024 municipal budget at fishers.in.us/Budget.