INDIANAPOLIS — Wednesday night, the Indianapolis City-County Council's Public Safety & Criminal Justice Committee, voted to postpone their vote on Proposal 256 to a later date. Prop 256 would require mutual aid organizations to register with the city or face fines: $250 the first time after a written warning; $500 each time afterward.
In an act of defiance, protesters gave away free food to the unhoused community at Lugar Plaza Wednesday afternoon. It was put together by Jonathan Howe and Wildstyle Paschall, two people who devote their time to care for those living on the streets.
Noah Leininger, a community activist, was also there to show his support. He addressed the concerns some of the councilors have put forth as to why Prop 256 is needed.
"If there's a problem with litter, put some more trash cans around. If there's a problem of people using a restroom where they shouldn't be using the restroom, unlock some of the restrooms downtown so people have a place to do their business in a secure and private area," Leininger said.
Leininger says if Proposal 256 is eventually passed, he and others who work in charitable aid, won't obey the ordinance.
"It's our right to help our fellow humans in need," he said.
At the committee meeting, a majority of speakers echoed Leininger's sentiments., telling the city-county council to not pass Prop 256 out of committee. After hearing the emotional testimony, Councillor Frank Mascari said he was going to vote against the measure.
Postponing the vote on Proposal 256 passed 9-2. It will be in committee again at a later date.
Proposal 250, which approves an appropriation of $76,000 to buy two permanent bathrooms and cleaning services for the public's use, did pass, but was amended. After public testimony against the proposed City Safe Distribution Sites, the bathrooms will not be located at the Old City Hall or Babe Denny Park. New locations have not been selected.
-
Cost of Thanksgiving dinner is down but the need in the community is up
Experts say the cost of this year's Thanksgiving dinner is slightly cheaper than previous years. Local organizations say that slight relief isn't enough to reduce the need at this time of the year.
Experts: Car, home lockouts and plumbing calls increase during Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is less than a week away. Local experts shared tips to keep your house running smoothly during the holiday.
Outreach efforts aim to reduce overdose deaths in the 46201 zip code
Officials say there were 383 overdose deaths in Marion County from January to September 2024. Of those overdose deaths, 44 of them, or 11%, were in the 46201 zip code.
Peony plantings happening across Noblesville despite the snow and cold
Peony roots are being planted across Noblesville this week ahead of the 2025 Indiana Peony Festival.
