CHAPTER 15.1. REDEVELOPMENT OF AREAS IN MARION COUNTY NEEDING REDEVELOPMENT - Indiana Statutes

IC 36-7-15.1
     Chapter 15.1. Redevelopment of Areas in Marion County Needing Redevelopment

IC 36-7-15.1-1
Application of chapter
     Sec. 1. This chapter applies in each county having a consolidated city.
As added by Acts 1982, P.L.77, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.84-1987, SEC.5.

IC 36-7-15.1-1.3
Effect of change of reference from "blighted, deteriorated, or deteriorating area" to "area needing redevelopment"
     Sec. 1.3. (a) After June 30, 2005, a reference in any statute, rule, ordinance, resolution, contract, or other document or record to a blighted, deteriorated, or deteriorating area established under this chapter shall be treated as a reference to an area needing redevelopment (as defined in IC 36-7-1-3).
    (b) After June 30, 2005, a reference in any statute, rule, ordinance, resolution, contract, or other document or record to a redevelopment area established under this chapter shall be treated as a reference to a redevelopment project area established under IC 36-7-14 or this chapter.
As added by P.L.20-2010, SEC.10.

IC 36-7-15.1-2
Declaration of policy
     Sec. 2. (a) The assessment, clearance, remediation, replanning, and redevelopment of areas needing redevelopment are public and governmental functions that cannot be accomplished through the ordinary operations of private enterprise, due to the necessity for the exercise of the power of eminent domain, the necessity for requiring the proper use of the land so as to best serve the interests of the county and its citizens, and the cost of these projects.
    (b) The conditions that exist in areas needing redevelopment are beyond remedy and control by regulatory processes because of the obsolescence and deteriorated conditions of improvements, environmental contamination, faulty land use, shifting of population, and technological and social changes.
    (c) The assessment, clearing, remediation, replanning, and redevelopment of areas needing redevelopment will benefit the health, safety, morals, and welfare and will serve to protect and increase property values in the county and the state.
    (d) The assessment, clearance, remediation, replanning, and redevelopment of areas needing redevelopment under this chapter are public uses and purposes for which public money may be spent and private property may be acquired.
    (e) This chapter shall be liberally construed to carry out the purposes of this section. As added by Acts 1982, P.L.77, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.185-2005, SEC.26; P.L.221-2007, SEC.40.

IC 36-7-15.1-3
Definitions
     Sec. 3. Except as provided in section 37 of this chapter, as used in this chapter:
    "Commission" refers to the metropolitan development commission acting as the redevelopment commission of the consolidated city, subject to IC 36-3-4-23.
    "Department" refers to the department of metropolitan development, subject to IC 36-3-4-23.
As added by Acts 1982, P.L.77, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.102-1999, SEC.2.

IC 36-7-15.1-4
Redevelopment district constituting special taxing district
     Sec. 4. (a) The redevelopment district referred to in IC 36-3-1-6 constitutes a special taxing district for the purpose of levying and collecting special benefit taxes for redevelopment purposes as provided in this chapter.
    (b) All of the taxable property within the redevelopment district is considered to be benefited by redevelopment projects carried out under this chapter to the extent of the special taxes levied under this chapter.
As added by Acts 1982, P.L.77, SEC.8.

IC 36-7-15.1-5
Pecuniary interests of commissioners and nonvoting advisers
     Sec. 5. A member of the commission or a nonvoting adviser appointed under IC 36-7-4-207 may not have a pecuniary interest in any contract, employment, purchase, or sale made under this chapter. However, any property required for redevelopment purposes in which a member or nonvoting adviser has a pecuniary interest may be acquired but only by gift or condemnation.
As added by Acts 1982, P.L.77, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.146-2008, SEC.743.

IC 36-7-15.1-6
Duties of commission
     Sec. 6. The commission shall:
        (1) investigate, study, and survey areas needing redevelopment within the redevelopment district;
        (2) investigate, study, determine, and to the extent possible combat the causes of the conditions described in IC 36-7-1-3;
        (3) promote the use of land in the manner that best serves the interests of the consolidated city and its inhabitants, both from the standpoint of human needs and economic values;
        (4) cooperate:
            (A) with the departments and agencies of:                 (i) the city; and
                (ii) other governmental entities; and
            (B) with:
                (i) public instrumentalities; and
                (ii) public bodies;
            created by state law;
        in the manner that best serves the purposes of this chapter;
        (5) make findings and reports on its activities under this section, and keep those reports open to inspection by the public at the offices of the department;
        (6) select and acquire the areas needing redevelopment to be redeveloped under this chapter; and
        (7) replan and dispose of the areas needing redevelopment in the manner that best serves the social and economic interests of the city and its inhabitants.
As added by Acts 1982, P.L.77, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.185-2005, SEC.27; P.L.221-2007, SEC.41.

IC 36-7-15.1-7
Powers of commission
     Sec. 7. (a) In carrying out its duties and purposes under this chapter, the commission may do the following:
        (1) Acquire by purchase, exchange, gift, grant, lease, or condemnation, or any combination of methods, any real or personal property or interest in property needed for the redevelopment of areas needing redevelopment that are located within the redevelopment district.
        (2) Hold, use, sell (by conveyance by deed, land sale contract, or other instrument), exchange, lease, rent, invest in, or otherwise dispose of, through any combination of methods, property acquired for use in the redevelopment of areas needing redevelopment on the terms and conditions that the commission considers best for the city and its inhabitants.
        (3) Acquire from and sell, lease, or grant interests in all or part of the real property acquired for redevelopment purposes to any other department of the city, or to any other governmental agency, for public ways, levees, sewerage, parks, playgrounds, schools, and other public purposes, on any terms that may be agreed upon.
        (4) Clear real property acquired for redevelopment purposes.
        (5) Enter on or into, inspect, investigate, and assess real property and structures acquired or to be acquired for redevelopment purposes to determine the existence, source, nature, and extent of any environmental contamination, including the following:
            (A) Hazardous substances.
            (B) Petroleum.
            (C) Other pollutants.
        (6) Remediate environmental contamination, including the following, found on any real property or structures acquired for

redevelopment purposes:
            (A) Hazardous substances.
            (B) Petroleum.
            (C) Other pollutants.
        (7) Repair and maintain structures acquired or to be acquired for redevelopment purposes.
        (8) Enter upon, survey, or examine any land, to determine whether it should be included within an area needing redevelopment to be acquired for redevelopment purposes, and determine the value of that land.
        (9) Appear before any other department or agency of the city, or before any other governmental agency in respect to any matter affecting:
            (A) real property acquired or being acquired for redevelopment purposes; or
            (B) any area needing redevelopment within the jurisdiction of the commission.
        (10) Subject to section 13 of this chapter, exercise the power of eminent domain in the name of the city, within the redevelopment district, in the manner prescribed by this chapter.
        (11) Establish a uniform fee schedule whenever appropriate for the performance of governmental assistance, or for providing materials and supplies to private persons in project or program related activities.
        (12) Expend, on behalf of the redevelopment district, all or any part of the money available for the purposes of this chapter.
        (13) Contract for the construction, extension, or improvement of pedestrian skyways.
        (14) Accept loans, grants, and other forms of financial assistance from the federal government, the state government, a municipal corporation, a special taxing district, a foundation, or any other source.
        (15) Provide financial assistance (including grants and loans) to enable individuals and families to purchase or lease residential units within the district. However, financial assistance may be provided only to those individuals and families whose income is at or below the county's median income for individuals and families, respectively.
        (16) Provide financial assistance (including grants and loans) to neighborhood development corporations to permit them to:
            (A) provide financial assistance for the purposes described in subdivision (15); or
            (B) construct, rehabilitate, or repair commercial property within the district.
        (17) Require as a condition of financial assistance to the owner of a multiunit residential structure that any of the units leased by the owner must be leased:
            (A) for a period to be determined by the commission, which may not be less than five (5) years;             (B) to families whose income does not exceed eighty percent (80%) of the county's median income for families; and
            (C) at an affordable rate.
        Conditions imposed by the commission under this subdivision remain in force throughout the period determined under clause (A), even if the owner sells, leases, or conveys the property. The subsequent owner or lessee is bound by the conditions for the remainder of the period.
        (18) Provide programs in job training, job enrichment, and basic skill development for residents of an enterprise zone.
        (19) Provide loans and grants for the purpose of stimulating business activity in an enterprise zone or providing employment for residents of an enterprise zone.
        (20) Contract for the construction, extension, or improvement of:
            (A) public ways, sidewalks, sewers, waterlines, parking facilities, park or recreational areas, or other local public improvements (as defined in IC 36-7-15.3-6) or structures that are necessary for redevelopment of areas needing redevelopment or economic development within the redevelopment district; or
            (B) any structure that enhances development or economic development.
    (b) In addition to its powers under subsection (a), the commission may plan and undertake, alone or in cooperation with other agencies, projects for the redevelopment of, rehabilitating, preventing the spread of, or eliminating slums or areas needing redevelopment, both residential and nonresidential, which projects may include any of the following:
        (1) The repair or rehabilitation of buildings or other improvements by the commission, owners, or tenants.
        (2) The acquisition of real property.
        (3) Either of the following with respect to environmental contamination on real property:
            (A) Investigation.
            (B) Remediation.
        (4) The demolition and removal of buildings or improvements on buildings acquired by the commission where necessary for any of the following:
            (A) To eliminate unhealthful, unsanitary, or unsafe conditions.
            (B) To mitigate or eliminate environmental contamination.
            (C) To lessen density.
            (D) To reduce traffic hazards.
            (E) To eliminate obsolete or other uses detrimental to public welfare.
            (F) To otherwise remove or prevent the conditions described in IC 36-7-1-3.
            (G) To provide land for needed public facilities.
        (5) The preparation of sites and the construction of

improvements (such as public ways and utility connections) to facilitate the sale or lease of property.
        (6) The construction of buildings or facilities for residential, commercial, industrial, public, or other uses.
        (7) The disposition in accordance with this chapter, for uses in accordance with the plans for the projects, of any property acquired in connection with the projects.
    (c) The commission may use its powers under this chapter relative to real property and interests in real property obtained by voluntary sale or transfer, even though the real property and interests in real property are not located in a redevelopment or urban renewal project area established by the adoption and confirmation of a resolution under sections 8(c), 9, 10, and 11 of this chapter. In acquiring real property and interests in real property outside of a redevelopment or urban renewal project area, the commission shall comply with section 12(b) through 12(e) of this chapter. The commission shall hold, develop, use, and dispose of this real property and interests in real property substantially in accordance with section 15 of this chapter.
    (d) As used in this section, "pedestrian skyway" means a pedestrian walkway within or outside of the public right-of-way and through and above public or private property and buildings, including all structural supports required to connect skyways to buildings or buildings under construction. Pedestrian skyways constructed, extended, or improved over or through public or private property constitute public property and public improvements, constitute a public use and purpose, and do not require vacation of any public way or other property.
    (e) All powers that may be exercised under this chapter by the commission may also be exercised by the commission in carrying out its duties and purposes under IC 36-7-15.3.
As added by Acts 1982, P.L.77, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.358-1983, SEC.1; P.L.23-1984, SEC.17; P.L.84-1987, SEC.6; P.L.193-1988, SEC.1; P.L.2-1989, SEC.31; P.L.14-1991, SEC.14; P.L.185-2005, SEC.28; P.L.221-2007, SEC.42; P.L.146-2008, SEC.744.

IC 36-7-15.1-8
Assembly of data; adoption of resolution; amendment of resolution or plan
     Sec. 8. (a) Whenever the commission finds that:
        (1) an area in the redevelopment district is an area needing redevelopment;
        (2) the conditions described in IC 36-7-1-3 cannot be corrected in the area by regulatory processes or by the ordinary operations of private enterprise without resort to this chapter; and
        (3) the public health and welfare will be benefited by:
            (A) the acquisition and redevelopment of the area under this chapter as a redevelopment project area or an urban renewal area; or
            (B) the amendment of the resolution or plan, or both, for an

existing redevelopment project area or urban renewal area; and
        (4) in the case of an amendment to the resolution or plan for an existing redevelopment project area or urban renewal area:
            (A) the amendment is reasonable and appropriate when considered in relation to the original resolution or plan and the purposes of this chapter;
            (B) the resolution or plan, with the proposed amendment, conforms to the comprehensive plan for the unit; and
            (C) except as provided by subsection (f), if the amendment enlarges the boundaries of the area, the existing area does not generate sufficient revenue to meet the financial obligations of the original project;
the commission shall cause to be prepared a redevelopment or urban renewal plan.
    (b) The redevelopment or urban renewal plan must include:
        (1) maps, plats, or maps and plats, showing:
            (A) the boundaries of the area in which property would be acquired for, or otherwise affected by, the establishment of a redevelopment project area or urban renewal area, or the amendment of the resolution or plan for an existing area;
            (B) the location of the various parcels of property, public ways, and other features affecting the acquisition, clearance, replatting, replanning, rezoning, or redevelopment of the area or areas, indicating any parcels of property to be excluded from the acquisition or otherwise excluded from the effects of the establishment of the redevelopment project area or the amendment of the resolution or plan for an existing area; and
            (C) the parts of the area acquired that are to be devoted to public ways, levees, sewerage, parks, playgrounds, and other public purposes;
        (2) lists of the owners of the various parcels of property proposed to be acquired for, or otherwise affected by, the establishment of an area or the amendment of the resolution or plan for an existing area; and
        (3) an estimate of the costs, if any, to be incurred for the acquisition and redevelopment of property.
    (c) This subsection applies to the initial establishment of a redevelopment project area or urban renewal area. After completion of the data required by subsection (b), the commission shall adopt a resolution declaring that:
        (1) the area needing redevelopment is a detriment to the social or economic interests of the consolidated city and its inhabitants;
        (2) it will be of public utility and benefit to acquire the area and redevelop it under this chapter; and
        (3) the area is designated as a redevelopment project area for purposes of this chapter.
The resolution must state the general boundaries of the

redevelopment project area and identify the interests in real or personal property, if any, that the department proposes to acquire in the area.
    (d) This subsection applies to the amendment of the resolution or plan for an existing redevelopment project area or urban renewal area. After completion of the data required by subsection (b), the redevelopment commission shall adopt a resolution declaring that:
        (1) except as provided by subsection (f), if the amendment enlarges the boundaries of the area, the existing area does not generate sufficient revenue to meet the financial obligations of the original project;
        (2) it will be of public utility and benefit to amend the resolution or plan for the area; and
        (3) any additional area to be acquired under the amendment is designated as part of the existing redevelopment project area or urban renewal area for purposes of this chapter.
The resolution must state the general boundaries of the redevelopment project area or urban renewal area, including any changes made to those boundaries by the amendment, and describe the activities that the department is permitted to take under the amendment, with any designated exceptions.
    (e) For the purpose of adopting a resolution under subsection (c) or (d), it is sufficient to describe the boundaries of the redevelopment project area by its location in relation to public ways or streams, or otherwise, as determined by the commission. Property proposed for acquisition may be described by street numbers or location.
    (f) The commission is not required to make the finding and declaration described in subsections (a)(4)(C) and (d)(1) concerning the enlargement of the boundaries of an existing redevelopment project area or urban renewal area if, before the adoption of the resolution under subsection (d), the Indiana economic development corporation issues a finding approving the enlargement of the boundaries. Before issuing a finding under this subsection, the Indiana economic development corporation must consider whether the enlargement of the boundaries will:
        (1) lead to increased investment in Indiana;
        (2) foster job creation or job retention in Indiana;
        (3) have a positive impact on the unit in which the area is located; or
        (4) otherwise benefit the people of Indiana by increasing opportunities for employment in Indiana and strengthening the economy of Indiana.
As added by Acts 1982, P.L.77, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.358-1983, SEC.2; P.L.14-1991, SEC.15; P.L.185-2005, SEC.29; P.L.146-2008, SEC.745.

IC 36-7-15.1-9
Conformity of resolution and redevelopment plan with comprehensive city development plan; submission of resolution and plan to legislative body for approval      Sec. 9. (a) After or concurrent with adoption of a resolution under section 8 of this chapter, the commission shall determine whether the resolution and the redevelopment plan conform to the comprehensive plan of development for the consolidated city and approve or disapprove the resolution and plan proposed. If the commission approves the resolution and plan, it shall submit the resolution and plan to the legislative body of the consolidated city, which may approve or disapprove the resolution and plan.
    (b) In determining the location and extent of a redevelopment project area proposed to be acquired for redevelopment, the commission shall give consideration to transitional and permanent provisions for adequate housing for the residents of the area who will be displaced by the redevelopment project.
As added by Acts 1982, P.L.77, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.185-2005, SEC.30; P.L.146-2008, SEC.746.

IC 36-7-15.1-10
Notice and hearing on resolution; filing remonstrance; final action taken by commission
     Sec. 10. (a) After approval by the commission and the legislative body of the consolidated city under section 9 of this chapter, the commission shall publish notice of the adoption and substance of the resolution in accordance with IC 5-3-1. The notice must:
        (1) state that maps, plats, or maps and plats have been prepared and can be inspected at the office of the department; and
        (2) name a date when the commission will:
            (A) receive and hear remonstrances and other testimony from persons interested in or affected by the proceeding pertaining to the proposed project or other actions to be taken under the resolution; and
            (B) determine the public utility and benefit of the proposed project or other actions.
All persons affected in any manner by the hearing, including all taxpayers of the redevelopment district, shall be considered notified of the pendency of the hearing and of subsequent acts, hearings, adjournments, and orders of the commission by the notice given under this section.
    (b) A copy of the notice of the hearing on the resolution shall be filed in the office of the commission, board of zoning appeals, works board, park board, and any other departments, bodies, or officers of the consolidated city having to do with planning, variances from zoning ordinances, land use, or the issuance of building permits. These agencies and officers shall take notice of the pendency of the hearing, and until the commission confirms, modifies and confirms, or rescinds the resolution, or the confirmation of the resolution is set aside on appeal, they may not, without approval of the commission:
        (1) authorize any construction on property or sewers in the area described in the resolution, including substantial modifications, rebuilding, conversion, enlargement, additions, and major structural improvements; or         (2) take any action regarding the zoning or rezoning of property, or the opening, closing, or improvement of public ways in the area described in the resolution.
This subsection does not prohibit the granting of permits for ordinary maintenance or minor remodeling, or for changes necessary for the continued occupancy of buildings in the area.
    (c) If the resolution to be considered at the hearing includes a provision establishing or amending an allocation provision under section 26 of this chapter, the commission shall file the following information with each taxing unit that is wholly or partly located within the allocation area:
        (1) A copy of the notice required by subsection (a).
        (2) A statement disclosing the impact of the allocation area, including the following:
            (A) The estimated economic benefits and costs incurred by the allocation area, as measured by increased employment and anticipated growth of real property assessed values.
            (B) The anticipated impact on tax revenues of each taxing unit.
The commission shall file the information required by this subsection with the officers of the taxing unit who are authorized to fix budgets, tax rates, and tax levies under IC 6-1.1-17-5 at least ten (10) days before the date of the hearing.
    (d) At the hearing, which may be adjourned from time to time, the commission shall hear all persons interested in the proceedings and shall consider all written remonstrances and objections that have been filed. After considering the evidence presented, the commission shall take final action determining the public utility and benefit of the proposed project or other actions to be taken under the resolution, and confirming, modifying and confirming, or rescinding the resolution. The final action taken by the commission shall be recorded and is final and conclusive, except that an appeal may be taken under section 11 of this chapter.
As added by Acts 1982, P.L.77, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.38-1988, SEC.13; P.L.14-1991, SEC.16; P.L.25-1995, SEC.88; P.L.146-2008, SEC.747.

IC 36-7-15.1-10.5
Notice
     Sec. 10.5. (a) In addition to the requirements of section 10 of this chapter, if the resolution or plan for an existing redevelopment project area or urban renewal area is proposed to be amended in a way that changes:
        (1) parts of the area that are to be devoted to a public way, levee, sewerage, park, playground, or other public purpose;
        (2) the proposed use of the land in the area; or
        (3) requirements for rehabilitation, building requirements, proposed zoning, maximum densities, or similar requirements;
the commission must, at least ten (10) days before the public hearing under section 10 of this chapter, send the notice required by section

10 of this chapter by first class mail to affected neighborhood associations.
    (b) In addition to the requirements of section 10 of this chapter, if the resolution or plan for an existing redevelopment project area or urban renewal area is proposed to be amended in a way that:
        (1) enlarges the boundaries of the area; or
        (2) adds one (1) or more parcels to the list of parcels to be acquired;
the commission must, at least ten (10) days before the public hearing under section 10 of this chapter, send the notice required by section 10 of this chapter by first class mail to affected neighborhood associations and to persons owning property that is in the proposed enlargement of the area or that is proposed to be added to the acquisition list. If the enlargement of an area is proposed, notice must also be filed in accordance with section 10(b) of this chapter, and agencies and officers may not take actions prohibited by section 10(b) in the proposed enlarged area.
    (c) The commission may require that neighborhood associations register with the commission. The commission may adopt a rule that requires that a neighborhood association encompass a part of the geographic area included in or proposed to be included in a redevelopment project area, urban renewal area, or economic development area to qualify as an affected neighborhood association.
As added by P.L.193-1988, SEC.2. Amended by P.L.185-2005, SEC.31; P.L.146-2008, SEC.748.

IC 36-7-15.1-11
Remonstrance; appeal
     Sec. 11. (a) A person who filed a written remonstrance with the commission under section 10 of this chapter and is aggrieved by the final action taken may, within ten (10) days after that final action, file with the presiding judge of the superior court a copy of the order of the commission and the person's remonstrance against that order, together with the person's bond, as provided by IC 34-13-5-7, in the event the appeal is determined against the person. The burden of proof is on the remonstrator, and no change of venue may be granted.
    (b) An appeal under this section shall be promptly heard by the court without a jury. Except in a county containing a consolidated city, all the judges of the court, or a majority of the judges if not all are available, shall hear the appeal. In a county containing a consolidated city, the appeal shall be heard by one (1) judge unless rules adopted by the court or by the Indiana supreme court require an appeal to be heard by additional judges. All remonstrances upon which an appeal has been taken shall be consolidated and heard and determined within thirty (30) days after the time of the filing of the appeal. The court shall decide the appeal based on the record and evidence before the commission, not by trial de novo. It may confirm the final action of the commission or sustain the remonstrances. If the appeal is decided in a county that does not contain a consolidated city, the vote of at least a majority of all the elected judges is

required to confirm the final action of the commission or sustain the remonstrances. The judgment of the court is final and conclusive, unless an appeal is taken as in other civil actions. An appeal to the court of appeals or supreme court has priority over all other civil appeals.
As added by Acts 1982, P.L.77, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.1-1998, SEC.207; P.L.141-2007, SEC.4.

IC 36-7-15.1-12
Acquisition of real property by commission
     Sec. 12. (a) If no appeal is taken, or if an appeal is taken but is unsuccessful, the commission shall proceed with the proposed project, to the extent that money is available for that purpose.
    (b) The commission shall first approve and adopt a list of the real property and interests in real property to be acquired, and the price to be offered to the owner of each parcel or interests. The prices to be offered may not exceed the average of two (2) independent appraisals of fair market value procured by the commission, except that appraisals are not required in transactions with other governmental agencies. However, if the real property is less than five (5) acres in size and the fair market value of the real property or interest has been appraised by one (1) independent appraiser at less than ten thousand dollars ($10,000), the second appraisal may be made by a qualified employee of the department. The prices indicated on the list may not be exceeded unless specifically authorized by the commission under section 7 of this chapter or ordered by a court in condemnation proceedings. The commission may except from acquisition any real property in the area if it finds that such an acquisition is not necessary under the redevelopment plan. Appraisals made under this section are for the information of the commission and are not open for public inspection.
    (c) Negotiations for the purchase of property may be carried on directly by the commission, by its employees, or by expert negotiators employed for that purpose. The commission shall adopt a standard form of option for use in negotiations, but no option, contract, or understanding relative to the purchase of real property is binding on the commission until approved and accepted by the commission in writing. The commission may authorize the payment of a nominal fee to bind an option, and as a part of the consideration for conveyance may agree to pay the expense incident to the conveyance and determination of the title of the property. Payment for the property purchased shall be made when and as directed by the commission, but only on delivery of proper instruments conveying the title or interest of the owner to "City of __________ for the use and benefit of its Department of Metropolitan Development".
    (d) Notwithstanding subsections (a) through (c), the commission may, before the time referred to in this section, accept gifts of property needed for the redevelopment of redevelopment project areas. The commission may, before the time referred to in this section, take options on or contract for the acquisition of property

needed for the redevelopment of redevelopment project areas if the options and contracts are not binding on the commission or the redevelopment district until the time referred to in this section and until money is available to pay the consideration set out in the options or contracts.
    (e) Section 15(a) through 15(h) of this chapter does not apply to exchanges of real property (or interests in real property) in connection with the acquisition of real property (or interests in real property) under this section. In acquiring real property (or interests in real property) under this section the commission may, as an alternative to offering payment of money as specified in subsection (b), offer for the real property (or interest in real property) that the commission desires to acquire:
        (1) exchange of real property or interests in real property owned by the redevelopment district;
        (2) exchange of real property or interests in real property owned by the redevelopment district, along with the payment of money by the commission; or
        (3) exchange of real property or interests in real property owned by the redevelopment district along with the payment of money by the owner of the real property or interests in real property that the commission desires to acquire.
The commission shall have the fair market value of the real property or interests in real property owned by the redevelopment district appraised as specified in section 15(b) of this chapter. The appraisers may not also appraise the value of the real property or interests in real property to be acquired by the redevelopment district. The commission shall establish the nature of the offer to the owner based on the difference between the average of the two (2) appraisals of the fair market value of the real property or interests in real property to be acquired by the commission and the average of the appraisals of fair market value of the real property or interests in real property to be exchanged by the commission.
As added by Acts 1982, P.L.77, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.358-1983, SEC.3; P.L.222-1986, SEC.1; P.L.193-1988, SEC.3; P.L.14-1991, SEC.17; P.L.185-2005, SEC.32.

IC 36-7-15.1-13
Eminent domain; approval by city-county legislative body
     Sec. 13. (a) Subject to the approval of the city-county legislative body, if the commission considers it necessary to acquire real property in a redevelopment project area by the exercise of the power of eminent domain, it shall adopt a resolution setting out its determination to exercise that power and directing its attorney to file a petition in the name of the city on behalf of the department in the circuit or superior court of the county.
    (b) Eminent domain proceedings under this section are governed by IC 32-24.
As added by Acts 1982, P.L.77, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.2-2002, SEC.112; P.L.185-2005, SEC.33; P.L.146-2008, SEC.749.
IC 36-7-15.1-14
Clearing and planning by commission; repair and maintenance; environmental contamination; labor and contracts; utilities; payments; public dedication
     Sec. 14. (a) The commission may proceed with the clearing and replanning of the area described in the resolution before the acquisition of all of that area. It may also proceed with any of the following:
        (1) The repair and maintenance of buildings that have been acquired and are not to be cleared.
        (2) Investigation of environmental contamination.
        (3) Remediation of environmental contamination.
The commission may carry out the activities under this subsection by labor employed directly by the commission or by contract. Contracts for clearance may provide that the contractor is entitled to retain and dispose of salvaged material, as a part of the contract price or on the basis of stated prices for the amounts of the various materials actually salvaged.
    (b) All contracts for material or labor under this section shall be let under IC 36-1.
    (c) In the replanning and rezoning of the real property acquired, the opening, closing, relocation, and improvement of public ways, and the construction, relocation, or improvement of levees, sewers, and utility services, the commission shall proceed in the same manner as private owners of property. It may negotiate with the proper officers and agencies to secure the proper orders, approvals, and consents.
    (d) The commission may pay any charges or assessments made on account of orders, approvals, consents, and construction work under this section, or may agree to pay these assessments in installments as provided by statute in the case of private owners. The commission may:
        (1) by special waiver filed with the works board, waive the statutory procedure and notices required by law in order to create valid liens on private property; and
        (2) cause any assessments to be spread on a different basis than that provided by statute.
    (e) None of the real property acquired under this chapter may be set aside and dedicated for public ways, sewers, levees, parks, or other public purposes until the commission has obtained the consent and approval of the department or agency under whose jurisdiction the property will be placed.
As added by Acts 1982, P.L.77, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.221-2007, SEC.43.

IC 36-7-15.1-15
Appraisal, publication, and bidding requirements
     Sec. 15. (a) This section does not apply to the sale or grant of real property or interests in real property to:
        (1) nonprofit corporations, community development

corporations, or neighborhood development corporations under section 15.1 of this chapter; or
        (2) an urban enterprise association under section 15.2 of this chapter.
The provisions of this section concerning appraisal, publication, and bidding requirements do not apply to sales, leases, or other dispositions of real or personal property or interests in property to other public agencies, including the federal government or any agency or department of the federal government, for public purposes.
    (b) Before offering for sale, exchange, or lease (or a combination of methods) to the public any of the property or interests acquired, the commission shall cause two (2) separate appraisals of the fair market value to be made by independent appraisers. However, if the property is less than five (5) acres in size and the fair market value of the real property or interest has been appraised by one (1) independent appraiser at less than ten thousand dollars ($10,000), the second appraisal may be made by a qualified employee of the department. In the case of an exchange, the same appraiser may not appraise both of the properties to be exchanged. In making appraisals, the appraisers shall take into consideration the size, location, and physical condition of the parcels, the advantages accruing to the parcels under the redevelopment plan, and all other factors having a bearing on the value of the parcels. The appraisals are solely for the information of the commission and are not open for public inspection.
    (c) The commission shall then prepare an offering sheet showing the parcels to be offered and the offering prices, which may not be less than the average of the two (2) appraisals. Copies of the offering sheets shall be furnished to prospective buyers on request. Maps, plats, or maps and plats showing the size and location of all parcels to be offered shall also be kept available for inspection at the office of the department.
    (d) A notice shall be published in accordance with IC 5-3-1. The notice must state that at a designated time the commission will open and consider written offers for the purchase or lease of the property or interests being offered. In giving the notice it is not necessary to describe each parcel separately, or to specify the exact terms of disposition, but the notice:
        (1) must state the general location of the parcels;
        (2) call attention generally to any limitations in the redevelopment or urban renewal plan on the use to be made of the real property offered; and
        (3) state that a bid submitted by a trust (as defined in IC 30-4-1-1(a)) must identify each:
            (A) beneficiary of the trust; and
            (B) settlor empowered to revoke or modify the trust.
    (e) At the time fixed in the notice the commission shall open and consider any offers received. The offers may consist of consideration in the form of cash, other property, or a combination of cash and property. However, with respect to property other than cash, the offer

must be accompanied by evidence of the property's fair market value that is satisfactory to the commission in the commission's sole discretion. All offers received shall be opened at public meetings of the commission and shall be kept open for public inspection.
    (f) The commission may reject any or all bids or may make awards to the highest and best bidders. In determining the best bids, the commission shall take into consideration the following factors:
        (1) The size and character of the improvements proposed to be made by the bidder on the real property bid on.
        (2) The bidder's plans and ability to improve the real property with reasonable promptness.
        (3) Whether the real property when improved will be sold or rented.
        (4) The bidder's proposed sale or rental prices.
        (5) The bidder's compliance with subsection (d)(3).
        (6) Any factors that will assure the commission that the sale or lease, if made, will further the execution of the redevelopment plan and best serve the interest of the community, from the standpoint of both human and economic welfare.
    (g) The commission may contract with a bidder in regard to the factors listed in subsection (f), and the contract may provide for the deposit of surety bonds, the making of good faith deposits, liquidated damages, the right of reversion or repurchase, or other rights and remedies if the bidder fails to comply with the contract.
    (h) After the opening, consideration, and determination of the written offers filed in response to the notice, the commission may dispose of all or part of the remaining available property or interests for any approved use, either at public sale or by private negotiation carried on by the commission, its regular employees, or real estate experts employed for that purpose. For a period of thirty (30) days after the opening of the written offers and determination on them, no sale, exchange, or lease may be made at a price or rental less than that shown on the offering sheet, except in the case of sales or rentals of:
        (1) ten (10) or more parcels to a purchaser or lessee who agrees to improve the parcels immediately;
        (2) parcels of property to individuals or families whose income is at or below the county's median income for individual and family income, respectively, for the purpose of constructing single family or two (2) family housing; or
        (3) parcels of property to a contractor or developer for the purpose of constructing single family or two (2) family housing for individuals or families whose income is at or below the county's median income for individual and family income, respectively;
but after that period the commission may adjust the offering prices in the manner it considers necessary to further the redevelopment or urban renewal plan.
    (i) A conveyance under this section may not be made until the agreed consideration has been paid, unless the commission adopts a

resolution:
        (1) stating that consideration does not have to be paid before the conveyance is made; and
        (2) setting forth an arrangement for future payment of consideration or provision of an infrastructure credit against the consideration, or both.
If full consideration is not paid before the conveyance is made, the commission may use a land sale contract or mortgage to secure payment of the consideration or may accept as a credit against the agreed consideration a contractual obligation to perform public infrastructure work related to the property being conveyed. All deeds, land sale contracts, leases, or other conveyances, and all contracts and agreements, including contracts of purchase, sale, or exchange and contracts for advancements, loans, grants, contributions, or other aid, shall be executed in the name of the "City of _________, Department of Metropolitan Development", and shall be executed by the president or vice president of the commission or by the director of the department if authorized. A seal is not required on these instruments or any other instruments executed in the name of the department.
As added by Acts 1982, P.L.77, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.193-1988, SEC.4; P.L.336-1989(ss), SEC.52; P.L.14-1991, SEC.18; P.L.28-1993, SEC.13; P.L.113-2002, SEC.7.

IC 36-7-15.1-15.1
Grant or sale at no cost of real property to qualifying corporation for low or moderate income housing; notice and hearing
     Sec. 15.1. (a) As used in this section, "qualifying corporation" refers to a nonprofit corporation or neighborhood development corporation that meets the requirements of subsection (b)(1) and the criteria established by the county fiscal body under subsection (i).
    (b) The commission may sell or grant at no cost title to real property to a nonprofit corporation or neighborhood development corporation for the purpose of providing low or moderate income housing or other development that will benefit or serve low or moderate income families if the following requirements are met:
        (1) The nonprofit corporation or neighborhood development corporation has, as a major corporate purpose and function, the provision of housing for low and moderate income families within the geographic area in which the parcel of property is located.
        (2) The qualifying corporation agrees to cause development that will serve or benefit low or moderate income families on the parcel of property within a specified period, which may not exceed five (5) years from the date of the sale or grant.
        (3) The qualifying corporation, if the qualifying corporation is a neighborhood development corporation, agrees that the qualifying corporation and each applicant, recipient, contractor, or subcontractor undertaking work in connection with the real property will:             (A) use lower income project area residents as trainees and as employees; and
            (B) contract for work with business concerns located in the project area or owned in substantial part by persons residing in the project area;
        to the greatest extent feasible, as determined under the standards specified in 24 CFR 135.
        (4) The county fiscal body has determined that the corporation meets the criteria established under subsection (i).
        (5) The qualifying corporation agrees to rehabilitate or otherwise develop the property in a manner that is similar to and consistent with the use of the other properties in the area served by the qualifying corporation.
    (c) To carry out the purposes of this section, the commission may secure from the county under IC 6-1.1-25-9(e) parcels of property acquired by the county under IC 6-1.1-24 and IC 6-1.1-25.
    (d) Before offering any parcel of property for sale or grant, the fair market value of the parcel of property must be determined. The fair market value may be determined by an appraisal made by a qualified employee of the department. However, if the qualified employee of the department determines that:
        (1) the property:
            (A) is less than five (5) acres in size; and
            (B) has a fair market value that is less than ten thousand dollars ($10,000); or
        (2) if the commission has obtained the parcel in the manner described in subsection (c);
an appraisal is not required. An appraisal under this subsection is solely for the information of the commission and is not available for public inspection.
    (e) The commission must decide whether the commission will sell or grant the parcel of real property at a public meeting. In making this decision, the commission shall give substantial weight to the extent to which and the terms under which the qualifying corporation will cause development to serve or benefit families of low or moderate income. If more than one (1) qualifying corporation is interested in acquiring a parcel of real property, the commission shall conduct a hearing at which a representative of each corporation may state the reasons why the commission should sell or grant the parcel to that corporation.
    (f) Before conducting a hearing under subsection (e), the commission shall publish a notice in accordance with IC 5-3-1 indicating that at a designated time the commission will consider selling or granting the parcel of real property under this section. The notice must state the general location of the property, including the street address if any, or a common description of the property other than the legal description.
    (g) If the county agrees to transfer a parcel of real property to the commission to be sold or granted under this section, the commission may conduct a hearing to sell or grant the parcel to a qualifying

corporation even though the parcel has not yet been transferred to the commission. After the hearing, the commission may adopt a resolution directing the department to take appropriate steps necessary to acquire the parcel from the county and to transfer the parcel to the qualifying corporation.
    (h) A conveyance of property to a qualifying corporation under this section shall be made in accordance with section 15(i) of this chapter.
    (i) The county fiscal body shall establish criteria for determining the eligibility of nonprofit corporations and neighborhood development corporations for sales or grants of real property under this section. A nonprofit corporation or neighborhood development corporation may apply to the county fiscal body for a determination concerning the corporation's compliance with the criteria established under this subsection.
As added by P.L.14-1991, SEC.19. Amended by P.L.31-1994, SEC.20; P.L.39-1994, SEC.26; P.L.2-1995, SEC.133; P.L.86-1999, SEC.3; P.L.177-2003, SEC.10.

IC 36-7-15.1-15.2
Sale or grant of real property to urban enterprise association
     Sec. 15.2. (a) The commission may sell or grant, at no cost, title to real property to an urban enterprise association for the purpose of developing the real property if the following requirements are met:
        (1) The urban enterprise association has incorporated as a nonprofit corporation under IC 5-28-15-14(b)(3).
        (2) The parcel of property to be sold or granted is located entirely within the enterprise zone for which the urban enterprise association was created under IC 5-28-15-13.
        (3) The urban enterprise association agrees to cause development on the parcel of property within a specified period that may not exceed five (5) years from the date of the sale or grant.
        (4) The urban enterprise association agrees to rehabilitate or otherwise develop the property in a manner that is similar to and consistent with the use of the other properties in the enterprise zone.
    (b) To carry out the purposes of this section, the commission may secure from the county under IC 6-1.1-25-9(e) parcels of property acquired by the county under IC 6-1.1-24 and IC 6-1.1-25.
    (c) Before offering any parcel of property for sale or grant, the fair market value of the parcel of property must be determined by an appraiser, who may be an employee of the department. However, if the commission has obtained the parcel in the manner described in subsection (b), an appraisal is not required. An appraisal under this subsection is solely for the information of the commission and is not available for public inspection.
    (d) The commission must decide at a public meeting whether the commission will sell or grant the parcel of real property. In making this decision, the commission shall give substantial weight to the

extent to which and the terms under which the urban enterprise association will cause development on the property.
    (e) Before conducting a meeting under subsection (d), the commission shall publish a notice in accordance with IC 5-3-1 indicating that at a designated time the commission will consider selling or granting the parcel of real property under this section. The notice must state the general location of the property, including the street address, if any, or a common description of the property other than the legal description.
    (f) If the county agrees to transfer a parcel of real property to the commission to be sold or granted under this section, the commission may conduct a meeting to sell or grant the parcel to an urban enterprise zone even though the parcel has not yet been transferred to the commission. After the hearing, the commission may adopt a resolution directing the department to take appropriate steps necessary to acquire the parcel from the county and to transfer the parcel to the urban enterprise association.
    (g) A conveyance of property to an urban enterprise association under this section shall be made in accordance with section 15(i) of this chapter.
    (h) An urban enterprise association that purchases or receives real property under this section shall report the terms of the conveyance to the board of the Indiana economic development corporation not later than thirty (30) days after the date the conveyance of the property is made.
As added by P.L.113-2002, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.4-2005, SEC.137.

IC 36-7-15.1-15.5
Additional powers of commission
     Sec. 15.5. (a) This section applies to the following:
        (1) Real property:
            (A) that was acquired by the commission to carry out a redevelopment project, an economic development area project, or an urban renewal project; and
            (B) relative to which the commission has, at a public hearing, decided that the real property is not needed to complete the redevelopment activity, an economic development area activity, or urban renewal activity in the project area.
        (2) Real property acquired under this chapter that is not in a redevelopment project area, an economic development area, or an urban renewal p