Council approves $4,000 renewal with Indiana Landmarks; chamber revives youth ambassador program; e‑bike ordinance discussion

The Newcastle common council voted 6–1 to approve a $4,000 renewal for a two‑year advisory contract with Indiana Landmarks, to be paid from riverboat funds in two $2,000 installments, after a short discussion about Historic Preservation Commission oversight.

Councilmember (who made the motion) said the $4,000 renewal would cover services that help funnel Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) and related review tasks to staff and preserve momentum in downtown investments. The chair told the council it may be useful to delineate responsibilities for the Historic Preservation Commission and staff before renewing the contract; the council then voted to approve the expenditure (vote recorded as 6–1).

Separately, Cindy Brooks of the Newcastle Henry County Chamber of Commerce announced the reboot of the chamber's youth ambassador program, a speaker series and a downtown ribbon‑cutting. Brooks introduced student participant Dylan Bunner (Newcastle High School) and said five youth ambassadors will take part in council and civic meetings as part of a speaker and leadership series.

On public safety, the fire chief asked the traffic committee and staff to work with the city attorney to draft an e‑bike/micro‑mobility ordinance for future consideration, citing radar readings and instances of scooters and e‑bikes traveling at high speeds. The chief suggested requirements for lights, brakes and helmet guidance; staff and council asked for a draft to be prepared and posted on the city's site for public awareness.

Next steps: Indiana Landmarks contract will be renewed; staff to draft an e‑bike ordinance for committee review; the youth ambassador program will continue with scheduled events.