Evansville Mayor Lloyd Winnecke focused on infrastructure, public safety, and business during his State of the City address.
The Republican mayor cited what he called “positive momentum” in the city, including infrastructure improvements.
Winnecke noted the massive $729 million federally-mandated sewer improvement project. He said the city has met with federal officials to try to reduce the cost while still complying with the Clean Water Act…
"I will tell you that regulators seem sympathetic toward our affordability argument but it's clear that it will be a tall task to convince the feds to approve a change in our decree."
Winnecke also touted efforts to reduce crime and opioid abuse, while praising police, firefighters, and dispatchers.
He also called for overhauling city code to improve business development…
"A major update to our zoning code has not occurred since 1962. I was 2. Our city has changed a great deal in 56 years so we need new zoning laws that reflect the modern marketplace."
Winnecke said the city is considering two sites for an indoor swimming pool to replace Lloyd Pool. I asked the mayor if he could disclose the locations...
"No. We have two sites. One is slightly ahead of the second one."
Winnecke concluded his address by inviting three Delaware School students to perform the well-known Leonard Cohen song. "Hallelujah."
