Indiana Senate Bill SB0061

Indiana 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/8/24
• Refer: 1/8/24
• Report Pass: 1/30/24
• Engrossed: 2/6/24
• Refer: 2/12/24

Caption

Tourism improvement districts.

Impact

The legislation significantly impacts local governance in Indiana by enabling the creation of districts that can impose special assessments on property owners to fund improvements and tourism-related activities. These special assessments would be based on the perceived benefits received by property owners within the district. The bill also includes provisions for the district management association to oversee operations, which is a nonprofit entity contracted to manage district activities. This structure could lead to more robust tourism initiatives in participating communities.

Summary

Senate Bill No. 61 (SB0061) seeks to establish a framework for creating tourism improvement districts within Indiana. The bill allows certain local units of government, excluding townships and specifically Marion County, to form tourism improvement districts through a petition process. For a district to be established, at least 65% of property owners and 65% of assessed property value within the proposed district must support the petition. The legislation delineates the requirements for district plans that outline proposed activities and improvements intended to promote tourism.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB0061 appears largely positive among supporters who view it as a means to enhance local tourism and economic development. However, there are concerns regarding the imposition of special assessments and the potential financial burden on property owners. Critics may argue that the bill does not adequately assess how districts will be maintained and whether they will serve all interests within the community, particularly those property owners who may be against the assessments.

Contention

Notable points of contention within SB0061 include the stringent requirements for forming a tourism improvement district, which some may view as too high, potentially limiting the creation of these districts. The exclusion of Marion County and certain property types, such as those receiving homestead deductions, from being assessed raises questions about equity and fairness. Additionally, there is concern that such districts could prioritize development over the needs of existing residents and businesses who are not benefiting directly from the projects funded by these assessments.