“When visitors spend their money in SoIN, there’s direct, indirect and induced impacts that keep money circulating through our local community,” said SoIN Tourism Executive Director Jim Epperson. “That money is also supporting our public services and helping to reduce the tax burden on our residents.” Dollars spent by visitors to Clark and Floyd counties serve as a source of tax revenue for the community. In 2023, visitor spending generated $60.3 million in state and local taxes helping to fund essential resources like emergency services, schools, roads and infrastructure improvements. Job CreationNearly 6,000 jobs in Clark and Floyd counties were directly related to tourism in 2023, marking the importance of the industry in regional job creation. Tourism also supports jobs in other industries, including Health & Social Services, Professional Services (e.g. accounting, legal and consulting services), Real Estate & Rental and more. Overall, tourism supported 7,291 jobs in 2023, a 5.1 percent increase from 2022, generating $176.5 million in wages. 

Visitors Spend and Residents Save in Southern Indiana

by with No Comment Member News
Southern Indiana (April 16, 2025) – More than $550 million spent by visitors in 2023 created jobs, tax revenue and a positive economic ripple effect for Indiana’s Clark and Floyd counties. Visitor spending in the two Southern Indiana counties climbed for the third year in a row in 2023.
“When visitors spend their money in SoIN, there’s direct, indirect and induced impacts that keep money circulating through our local community,” said SoIN Tourism Executive Director Jim Epperson. “That money is also supporting our public services and helping to reduce the tax burden on our residents.”
 
Dollars spent by visitors to Clark and Floyd counties serve as a source of tax revenue for the community. In 2023, visitor spending generated $60.3 million in state and local taxes helping to fund essential resources like emergency services, schools, roads and infrastructure improvements.
 
Job Creation
Nearly 6,000 jobs in Clark and Floyd counties were directly related to tourism in 2023, marking the importance of the industry in regional job creation. Tourism also supports jobs in other industries, including Health & Social Services, Professional Services (e.g. accounting, legal and consulting services), Real Estate & Rental and more. Overall, tourism supported 7,291 jobs in 2023, a 5.1 percent increase from 2022, generating $176.5 million in wages.
 
 
About the 2023 Economic Contribution of Tourism in Clark-Floyd Region
Conducted by Rockport Analytics, the 2023 Economic Contribution of Tourism report uses the IMPLAN model (www.implan.com) to measure the direct, indirect, and induced impacts of visitation to the state using data and research collected by nationally recognized tourism research and economic experts. Due to the complexity of the tourism industry, which focuses on visitor spending in multiple categories, 2023 is the most recent and complete set of data on hand.
 
SoIN Tourism is the official destination marketing organization for Clark and Floyd counties in Southern Indiana, just north of Louisville, Ky. Offering authentic experiences in the Kentuckiana region, SoIN includes historic downtowns in Jeffersonville and New Albany, Clarksville’s retail corridor, as well as the communities of Charlestown, Floyds Knobs, Georgetown, Henryville, Memphis, New Washington, Sellersburg, and Starlight. Visitors who would like more information can visit the destination’s website, GoSoIN.com.
 
###
Advocacy-Update-Email-Header2

Advocacy Update | 04.16.25

by with No Comment 1si NewsAdvocacy

Advocacy-Update-Email-Header2

Our Advocacy Committee continues to meet and discuss relevant bills to our local businesses and constituents. We encourage everyone to see upcoming deadlines. Below, read more information about the bills and updates. 

  • Tuesday, April 15, 2025: Last day for House adoption of conference committee reports without Rules Committee approval 
  • Tuesday, April 15, 2025: Last day for Senate adoption of conference committee reports without Rules Committee approval. 
  • Tuesday, April 15, 2025: Last day for 3rd reading of House bills in the Senate. 
  • Tuesday, April 15, 2025: Last day for 3rd reading of Senate bills in House. 
  • Tuesday, April 29, 2025: Last day for adjournment for both houses. 

Thank you to everyone who attended the 2025 Regional Leadership Luncheon. We heard from seven Southern Indiana governmental leaders about subjects such as grants, infrastructure, and challenges. If you would like a high-level overview of what was discussed, you can read SoIN leaders discuss improvements, challenges at 1si event by Andrew Harp with News and Tribune. 

Check out 1si News and see all of our advocacy updates. Stay up to date and informed. Check out our news page here. 


Current List of Bills 1si Supports:  

SB-463: Child Care Matters  

Explanation:  Adds additional qualified childcare for purposes of the employer childcare expenditure tax credit and extends the credit availability through July 1, 2027. The bill will help support adequate funding and staffing for Indiana childcare centers. The bill strongly ties to 1si’s call to action which emphasizes the affordability and quality of childcare.  

  • Status:  
  • 4/10/2025- Motion to concur filed 
  • 4/10/2025- Returned to Senate with amendments 
  • 4/9/2025- Third reading: passed; Roll Call 412 
    • Yeas: 94 
    • Nays: 0 
  • 4/8/2025- Amendment #6 (Gross-Reaves) prevailed; voice vote 

SB-443: Business personal property tax  

Explanation: The bill proposed to increase business tax exemption by $20,000. This change should help reduce the administrative burden on small businesses, especially those with few fixed assets. However, the impact of the increase is expected to be minor, as it is a relatively small adjustment.  

  • Status:   
  • 3/13/2025- Representative Judy added as cosponsor 
  • 3/3/2025- First reading: referred to Committee on Ways and Means 
  • 2/14/2025- Referred to the House  
  • 2/13/2025- House sponsor: Representative Snow

     

HB-1172: Office of entrepreneurship and innovation  

  • Status:  
  • 4/3/2025- Committee report: do pass adopted; reassigned to Committee on Appropriations 
  • 2/20/2025- First reading: referred to Committee on Commerce and Technology 
  • 2/12/2025- Referred to the Senate  
  • 2/11/2025- Senate sponsor: Senator Buchanan  


HB-1248: Child Care and Development Fund  

Explanation: The bill will help prioritize foster parents to gain assistance through the Childcare Development Fund. The bill strongly connects to 1si’s call to action to increase the availability and affordability of childcare.  

  • Status:   
  • 4/10/2025- Signed by the Governor 
  • 4/3/2025- Signed by the President of the Senate 
  • 3/27/2025- Signed by the Speaker 
  • 3/24/2025- House concurred with Senate amendments; Roll Call 304 
    • Yeas: 95 
    • Nays: 0 

 

Current List of Bills 1si is Monitoring:  

Senate Bills:  

SB-1: Property Tax Relief  

Explanation: We are closely monitoring this bill because the changes to residential and personal taxes significantly impact infrastructure, municipal funding, and workforce education. Based on the reports from the Association of Indiana Counties, you can see the impact of SB-1 here. In light of the bill, we are strongly advocating for the clarity of the expected impacts of this bill on businesses and individuals from our local government officials and elected state officials. We strongly advise our members to understand the bill’s effect within our communities.  

  • Status:  
  • 4/10/2025- Motion to concur filed 
  • 4/10/2025- Committee report: Pursuant to Senate Rule 82(e); approved by Rules Committee as amended by the House on Ways and Means 
  • 4/10/2025- Pursuant to Senate Rule 68(b); reassigned to committee on Rules and Legislative Procedure 
  • 4/10/2025- Returned to the Senate with amendments 
  • 4/10/2025- Third reading: passed; Roll Call 433 
    • Yeas: 65 
    • Nays: 29 


SB-423: Small modular nuclear reactor pilot program 

  • Status:  
  • 4/10/2025- Second reading: order engrossed 
  • 4/8/2025- Committee report: amend do pass, adopted 
  • 3/3/2025- First reading: referred to Committee on Utilities, Energy and Telecommunications 
  • 2/4/2025- Referred to House  


SB-426: Water utilities 

  • Status:  
  • 4/3/2025- Public Law 24 
  • 4/3/2025- Signed by the Governor 
  • 3/27/2025- Signed by the President of the Senate 
  • 3/24/2025- Signed by the Speaker 
  • 3/24/2025- Signed by the President Pro Tempore 
  • 3/21/20- Returned to the Senate without amendments 


SB-488: Skills training pilot program  

  • Status:  
  • 3/20/2025- Recommitted to Committee on Ways and Means pursuant to House Rule 126.3 
  • 3/20/2025- Committee report: do pass, adopted 
  • 3/3/2025- First reading: referred to Committee on Employment, Labor and Pensions 


SB-518: School property taxes 

  • Status: 
  • 3/3/2025- First reading: referred to Committee on Ways and Means 
  • 2/21/2025- Referred to the House 
  • 2/20/2025- Third reading: passed; Roll Call 210 
    • Yeas: 28 
    • Nays: 21 

 

House Bills 

HB-1003: Health matters. 

Explanation: Addresses site-neutral payment requirements, burdensome 340B requirements, the extension of site-neutral payments to nonprofit hospital settings, and hospital billing requirements.  

  • Status: 
  • 4/10/2025- Committee report: amend do pass, adopted 
  • 4/3/2025- Committee report: amend do pass adopted; reassigned to Committee on Appropriations 
  • 3/3/2025- Pursuant to Senate Rule 68(b); reassigned to Committee on Health and Provider Services 
  • 3/3/2025- First reading: referred to Committee on Insurance and Financial Institutions 
  • 2/19/2025- Referred to the Senate 

 

HB-1004: Nonprofit Hospitals  

Education: Loss of non-profit status is any charge item that is in excess of 300% of Medicare and includes an excise tax to be imposed upon a hospital each time the hospital charges a patient a facility fee that exceeds 265% of Medicare. 

  • Status: 
  • 4/10/2025- Committee report: amend do pass, adopted 
  • 3/20/2025- Committee report: do pass adopted; reassigned to Committee on Appropriations 
  • 3/3/2025- First reading: referred to Committee on Health and Provider Services 
  • 2/21/2025- Referred to the Senate 


HB-1214: Workers’ compensation  

  •  Status:  
  • 4/9/2025- Signed by the President of the Senate 
  • 4/8/2025- Signed by the President Pro Tempore 
  • 4/7/2025- Signed by the Speaker 
  • 4/3/2025- House concurred with Senate amendments; Roll Call 363 
    • Yeas: 90 
    • Nays: 0 
  • 4/3/2025- Motion to concur filed 
  • 3/28/2025- Returned to the House with amendments 


HB-1226: Medicare supplement insurance  

  • Status:  
  • 4/10/2025- Signed by the Governor 
  • 4/3/2025- Signed by the President Pro Tempore 
  • 3/27/2025- Signed by Speaker 
  • 3/26/2025- Returned to the House without amendments 
  • 3/25/2025- Third reading: passed; Roll Call 283 
    • Yeas: 45 
    • Nays: 2 


HB-1347: Real estate matters 

  • Status:  
  • 3/19/2025- Returned to the House with amendments 
  • 3/18/2025- Third reading: passed 
    • Yeas: 49 
    • Nays: 0 
  • 3/17/2025- Second reading: ordered engrossed 
  • 3/13/2025- Committee report: amend do pass, adopted 

 

You can find a copy of the 1si 2024 Advocacy Agenda by visiting https://1si.org/advocacy/ or downloading a PDF copy here.   

River Ridge Economic Impact on Southern Indiana Surpasses $3 Billion in 2024

by with No Comment Member News
Annual Analysis Shows $138.2 Million in New Private Investment, Providing Support for over 19,400 Jobs in the Region
Jeffersonville, IN (April 14, 2025) – The River Ridge Development Authority (RRDA) released its economic analysis for 2024, showcasing another landmark year of growth, infrastructure improvements, and community impact. River Ridge Commerce Center continues to serve as an economic engine for Southern Indiana, generating more than $3.04 billion in economic impact and supporting 19,471 regional jobs.
 
“Our commitment to developing River Ridge is ultimately about driving meaningful growth and benefiting Southern Indiana residents,” said Dr. Treva Hodges, Mayor of Charlestown and President of the RRDA Board of Directors. “The investments we make in infrastructure, job creation, and business recruitment are shaping the future of our communities.”
 
One of the more significant developments in 2024 was Meta’s acquisition of a portion of River Ridge’s mega site in the Jeffersonville part of the Commerce Center, spanning over 600 acres. Meta announced an initial investment of $800 million to establish a cutting-edge data center, marking a transformative step in the region’s economic growth. The facility is expected to create approximately 100 permanent operational jobs at an average wage of $36.00 an hour, while continuously generating approximately 1,250 construction jobs throughout its development.
 
River Ridge also remains committed to modernizing infrastructure. In 2024 alone, RRDA invested $6.7 million in new roads and another $8.9 million in improved utilities, ensuring the Commerce Center remains a competitive destination for businesses of all sizes.
 
“These infrastructure improvements are a foundation for future investment,” said Jerry Acy, River Ridge Executive Director. “By prioritizing long-term development, we are ensuring that River Ridge continues to attract world-class companies and high-quality jobs.”
 
Communications Test Design Inc., CTDI, a global leader in engineering, repair, and logistics, expanded its operations into a new facility at the north end of River Ridge in Charlestown. This expansion represents a significant investment in the region, bringing additional job opportunities and reinforcing River Ridge’s reputation as a hub for advanced technology and logistics.
 
Toby Booker, General Manager of Corporate Social Responsibility at CTDI, highlighted the importance of their partnership with the River Ridge Development Authority, stating:
 
“The River Ridge Development Authority continues to provide the resources, expertise, and forward-thinking approach that are critical to the growth of CTDI. Expanding into multiple buildings within River Ridge was a strategic decision driven by its unparalleled infrastructure, seamless logistics, and commitment to sustainability. Their ability to support innovation aligns perfectly with CTDI’s vision for a more connected future. We are proud to grow our partnership with such a dynamic and supportive organization.”
 
Overall, River Ridge had a banner year with private construction investments topping $138.2 million, adding approximately 3.9 million square feet of commercial and industrial space. River Ridge has maintained a high level of activity, drawing 95 requests for proposals and hosting 25 on-site visits from prospective businesses considering the park for future investment.
 
River Ridge’s economic contributions also extend to state and local governments, with business activity generating $49.4 million in tax revenue and wages from these operations and contributing $933.9 million in total labor income.
 
A summary of Policy Analytics’ report for 2024 includes the following highlights:
  • The River Ridge Commerce Center produced $3.04 billion in economic output throughout Southern Indiana.
  • Business activity generated $49.4 million in total tax revenue for state and local entities.
  • Businesses that call River Ridge home expanded their employment footprint to include 19,471 jobs.
    • 12,675 employed individuals onsite; and
    • 6,796 regional jobs supported.
  • RRDA continued to expand infrastructure, providing $6.7 million in new roads and another $8.9 million in improved utilities.
  • Private construction of $138.2 million in 2024 is estimated to bring an additional 3.9 million square feet once completed.
“The success of River Ridge is a success for all of Southern Indiana,” added Acy. “We are building not just an industrial park, but a thriving, dynamic community that offers opportunity for businesses and families alike.”
 
The full 2024 RRDA Annual Report can be accessed at www.riverridgecc.com/annual-report

Nonprofit Spotlight | Operation Parent

by with No Comment Nonprofit Spotlight

Operation Parent
223 East Spring St.
New Albany, IN  47150
PH:  502-265-9045
www.operationparent.org
Contact Person:
Tara Oliver, Director of Fund Development

Please use 300 words or less to describe your agency and your impact in the community.

Operation Parent exists to prevent adolescent and teen addiction, suicide, violence, and more by providing parents of school-aged children ages K-12 with comprehensive, self-published prevention education. The parent handbooks address 25 of today’s toughest parenting challenges, including anxiety, bullying, social media, vaping, marijuana, and more.

The parent handbooks are easy to access, up-to-date, visually appealing, and provide practical tips and advice. Operation Parent gives parents the tools and resources to help them at each stage of child development. The resources are designed to bridge the gap between the world parents grew up in and the world their kids are growing up in today. The visually appealing content helps parents “keep up” to “speak up” and have meaningful conversations with their children.

In addition to the handbooks, parents are encouraged to register for the free monthly webinars designed to allow parents to dig deeper into a particular issue, that mirrors the topics in the handbook and connect with a community of parents for support.

Agency Mission Statement or Description: To love and support parents by providing real-world information, connection, and hope.

Year established: 2006

Counties/regions serviced: Nationwide presence. Corporate office in LaGrange, KY.

Focus areas: Prevention Education

Impact in community: Helping parents navigate their parenting journey in a challenging and changing environment. We help prevent alcohol and drug abuse by educating and empowering parents with tools and resources to converse with their children about tough topics that can become precursors to addiction, suicide, and abuse.

Volunteer Opportunities: Work on special event projects, particularly the annual golf tournament and ball drop.

How 1si members can help your organization: By helping us market our business by sharing our mission. Introductions to Southern Indiana school administration to help open doors for us to educate them about our resources.

Additional information: We offer free webinars from experts in their respective fields on topics such as bullying, social media, body image, drug and alcohol abuse and more. These can be found by visiting our website at: https://www.operationparent.org/parent-webinars

Advocacy-Update-Email-Header2

Advocacy Update | 04.09.25

by with No Comment Advocacy
Advocacy-Update-Email-Header2
Our Advocacy Committee continues to meet and discuss relevant bills to our local businesses and constituents. We encourage everyone to see upcoming deadlines. Below, read more information about the bills and updates.
  • Tuesday, April 15, 2025: Last day for House adoption of conference committee reports without Rules Committee approval.
  • Tuesday, April 15, 2025: Last day for Senate adoption of conference committee reports without Rules Committee approval.
  • Tuesday, April 15, 2025: Last day for 3rd reading of House bills in the Senate.
  • Tuesday, April 15, 2025: Last day for 3rd reading of Senate bills in House.
Regional Leadership Luncheon – Registration Closes at 5 PM
 
The registration for the Regional Leadership Luncheon on Friday, April 11th, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., will close at the end of the workday at 5 p.m. today. The event is an opportunity for you to meet and greet local officials, ask questions, and hear about the priorities impacting our communities.
 
You will hear from:
  • Bob Courtney, Mayor of Madison
  • Dr. Treva Hodges, Mayor of Charlestown
  • Reny Keener, Town Manager of Georgetown
  • Charlie Smith, Town Manager of Sellersburg
  • Terry Amick, Mayor of Scottsburg
  • Roger Hawkins, Mayor of Austin
  • Kevin Baity, Town Manager of Clarksville
 

Current List of Bills 1si Supports:  

 SB-463: Child Care Matters  

Explanation: Adds additional qualified childcare for purposes of the employer childcare expenditure tax credit and extends the credit availability through July 1, 2027. The bill will help support adequate funding and staffing for Indiana childcare centers. The bill strongly ties to 1si’s call to action which emphasizes the affordability and quality of childcare.  

  • Status:  
  • 4/03/2025-Committee report: amend do pass, adopted 
  • 3/27/2025-Recommitted to Committee on Ways and Means Pursuant to House Rule 126.3 
  • 3/27/2025-Committee report: amend do pass, adopted 
  • 3/3/2025-First reading: referred to Committee on Family, Children, and Human Affairs 
  • Referred to the House 

 

SB-443: Business personal property tax  

Explanation: The bill proposed to increase business tax exemption by $20,000. This change should help reduce the administrative burden on small businesses, especially those with few fixed assets. However, the impact of the increase is expected to be minor, as it is a relatively small adjustment.  

  • Status:   
  • 3/13/2025-Representative Judy added as cosponsor 
  • 3/3/2025- First reading: referred to Committee on Ways and Means 
  • 2/14/2025- Referred to the House  
  • 2/13/2025- House sponsor: Representative Snow  

HB-1172: Office of entrepreneurship and innovation  

  • Status:  
  • 4/3/2025-Committee report: do pass adopted; reassigned to Committee on Appropriations 
  • 2/20/2025- First reading: referred to Committee on Commerce and Technology 
  • 2/12/2025- Referred to the Senate  
  • 2/11/2025- Senate sponsor: Senator Buchanan  

 

HB-1248: Child Care and Development Fund  

Explanation: The bill will help prioritize foster parents to gain assistance through the Childcare Development Fund. The bill strongly connects to 1si’s call to action to increase the availability and affordability of childcare.  

  • Status:   
  • 4/3/2025-Signed by the President of the Senate 
  • 3/27/2025-Signed by the Speaker 
  • 3/24/2025-House concurred with Senate amendments; Roll Call 304 
    • Yeas: 95 
    • Nays: 0 
  • 3/20/2025- Motion to concur filed 

 

Current List of Bills 1si is Monitoring:  

Senate Bills:  

SB-1: Property Tax Relief  

Explanation: We are closely monitoring this bill because the changes to residential and personal taxes significantly impact infrastructure, municipal funding, and workforce education. Based on the reports from the Association of Indiana Counties, you can see the impact of SB-1 here. In light of the bill, we are strongly advocating for the clarity of the expected impacts of this bill on businesses and individuals from our local government officials and elected state officials. We strongly advise our members to understand the bill’s effect within our communities. 

  • Status:  
  • 3/3/2025- First reading: referred to Committee on Ways and Means 
  • 2/19/2025- Representatives Snow and Jordan added as cosponsors 
  • 2/18/2025- Referred to the House 

 

SB-314: Pass-through entity tax  

  • Status:  
  • 4/1/2025-Signed by the Governor 
  • 3/27/2025-Signed by the President of the Senate 
  • 3/26/2025-Signed by the Speaker 
  • 3/26/2025-Signed by the President Pro Tempore 

 

SB-423: Small modular nuclear reactor pilot program 

  •   Status:  
  • 3/3/2025- First reading: referred to Committee on Utilities, Energy and Telecommunications 
  • 2/4/2025- Referred to House  
  • 2/3/2025- House sponsor: Representative Soliday  
  • 2/3/2025- Third reading passed; Roll Call 60  
    • Yeas 41  
    • Nays:7   

 

SB-426: Water utilities 

  • Status:  
  • 4/1/2025-Signed by the Governor 
  • 3/27/2025-Signed by the President of the Senate 
  • 3/24/2025-Signed by the Speaker 
  • 3/24/2025-Signed by the President Pro Tempore 
  • 3/21/20- Returned to the Senate without amendments 

 

SB-488: Skills training pilot program  

  • Status:  
  • Recommitted to Committee on Ways and Means pursuant to House Rule 126.3 
  • 3/20/2025- Recommitted to Committee on Ways and Means pursuant to House Rule 126.3 
  • 3/20/2025- Committee report: do pass, adopted 
  • 3/3/2025- First reading: referred to Committee on Employment, Labor and Pensions 

 

SB-518: School property taxes 

  • Status: 
  • 3/3/2025- First reading: referred to Committee on Ways and Means 
  • 2/21/2025- Referred to the House 
  • 2/20/2025- Third reading: passed; Roll Call 210 
    • Yeas: 28 
    • Nays: 21 

 

House Bills:

HB-1003: Health matters

Explanation: Addresses site-neutral payment requirements, burdensome 340B requirements, the extension of site-neutral payments to nonprofit hospital settings, and hospital billing requirements.  

  • Status: 
  • 4/3/2025- Committee report: amend do pass adopted; reassigned to Committee on Appropriations 
  • 3/3/2025- Pursuant to Senate Rule 68(b); reassigned to Committee on Health and Provider Services 
  • 3/3/2025- First reading: referred to Committee on Insurance and Financial Institutions 
  • 2/19/2025- Referred to the Senate 

 

HB-1004: Nonprofit Hospitals  

Education: Loss of non-profit status is any charge item is in excess of 300% of Medicare and includes an excise tax to be imposed upon a hospital each time the hospital charges a patient a facility fee that exceeds 265% of Medicare. 

  • Status: 
  • 3/20/2025- Committee report: do pass adopted; reassigned to Committee on Appropriations 
  • 3/3/2025- First reading: referred to Committee on Health and Provider Services 
  • 2/21/2025- Referred to the Senate 
  • 2/20/2025- Third reading: passed; Roll Call 239 
    • Yeas: 68 
    • Nays: 26 

 

HB-1214: Workers’ compensation  

  • Status:  
  • 4/3/2025-House concurred with Senate amendments; Roll Call 363 
    • Yeas: 90 
    • Nays: 0 
  • 4/3/2025-Motion to concur filed 
  • 3/28/2025-Returned to the House with amendments 
  • 3/27/2025-Third reading: passed; Roll Call 299 
    • Yeas: 48 
    • Nays: 0 

 

HB-1226: Medicare supplement insurance  

  • Status:  
  • 4/3/2025-Signed by the President Pro Tempore 
  • 3/27/2025-Signed by Speaker 
  • 3/26/2025-Returned to the House without amendments 
  • 3/25/2025-Third reading: passed; Roll Call 283 
    • Yeas: 45 
    • Nays: 2 

 

HB-1347: Real estate matters 

  • Status:  
  • 3/19/2025- Returned to the House with amendments 
  • 3/18/2025- Third reading: ordered engrossed 
  • 3/17/2025- Second reading: ordered engrossed 
  • 3/13/2025- Committee report: amend do pass, adopted 

You can find a copy of the 1si 2024 Advocacy Agenda by visiting https://1si.org/advocacy/ or downloading a PDF copy here.   

Economic Update | The Southern Indiana Economy

by with No Comment Economic Development

—More diversified from 20 plus years ago, and the importance of exports 

submitted by
Uric Dufrene, Ph.D., Sanders Chair in Business, Indiana University Southeast

Whatever is the outcome, changes in trade policy will have implications for the Southern Indiana economy. In 2023 alone, four of the five counties (Floyd, Clark, Harrison, and Washington) had total exports of approximately $1.1 billion. Total wages paid in the five Southern Indiana counties are approximately $1.5 billion. One conclusion we can draw from this is that exports are a key piece of the business model for many companies located across the region.    Disruptions to this model, such as retaliatory tariffs, will have implications for Southern Indiana business and industry.    

A look back at the Southern Indiana economy will help us understand the changes to key industries like manufacturing, and whether manufacturing has been “hollowed out” as described by some.   

In 2001, total payrolls across Southern Indiana stood at 77,310 with an average weekly wage of $513. Total wages, the collection of all wages paid by establishment firms, were $603 million. Manufacturing was the largest industry back in 2001, with almost 21,000 employees earning an average weekly wage of $637, or 124% higher than the overall average weekly wage. The largest industry in manufacturing was furniture and related product manufacturing, with 23 firms and an average weekly wage of $516. Total wages in manufacturing were about 29% of total wages paid. Think of this as manufacturing being responsible for 29% of all wages paid across the region.   

Let’s jump to 2024, the most recently available data year. Total payrolls across the Southern Indiana metro counties have grown considerably since 2001, now totaling 107,000, and with average weekly wages of $1,113, double the level that existed in 2001. Manufacturing is no longer the largest sector, however.  Total employees in manufacturing are now a little over 15,000, with average weekly wages of $1,226. The wage premium in manufacturing has declined from 2001, now at 110% of the average weekly wage. As a percentage of total wages, manufacturing represents about 16% of total wages paid by establishments across the region. The largest industry in manufacturing is no longer furniture and related products. The top spot is now occupied by, surprisingly, wood products manufacturing, with average weekly wages of $1,035.    

While this is lower than the share in 2001, it is also a sign of greater diversification in the regional economy, an important defense to any national slowdown in the macroeconomy. The largest industry is now healthcare, with over 17,000 employees and an average weekly wage of $1,145.    

How have wages grown compared to wages across Indiana? Relative to Indiana, and given the decline in the share of manufacturing jobs, have we progressed relative to Indiana, or declined? In 2001, Southern Indiana average weekly wages were 86% of the state average. In 2024, average weekly wages in Southern Indiana are up to 95% of the state average. So, despite the decline in manufacturing jobs, average weekly wages have improved relative to Indiana wages.  With a more diversified economy, Southern Indiana has grown to have higher-paying jobs in the service area, like professional and business services, and financial activities.   Both industries employ 2,000 more people than in 2001, and at wages that are significantly higher than manufacturing and overall average weekly wages. 

Much is being said about the loss of automotive manufacturing jobs in Detroit, and the need for protective tariffs to help restore the lost jobs in the automotive capital. 

Since 1995, the change in transportation equipment manufacturing (automotive manufacturing is part of this industry) in ten automotive-producing states was a negative 149,000, with Michigan alone making up 130,000 of that decline. In the nine other states combined, the decline is 19,000, representing an average of just over 2,000 jobs per state. One fact that is indisputable is that technology has made manufacturing more advanced today than in 1995. Manufacturers employ robotics, are more automated than in 1995, and consequently more productive. On a per-automotive basis, manufacturers need fewer people as a result.   

Tariff proponents like to offer Detroit as an example of why tariffs are key to protecting and revitalizing domestic manufacturing.  When we hear talk about restoring the lost automotive jobs in Detroit, then they also need to talk about moving jobs from states like Indiana, Missouri, Kentucky, Alabama, Mississippi, and a few others, because that’s where some of those Detroit jobs likely ended up. 

Caesars Foundation Loans of Floyd County Provide Small Business Owners Funds to Create and Grow Dreams

by with No Comment 1si News1si Press Release
[NEW ALBANY, IN.] One Southern Indiana (1si) and Caesars Foundation of Floyd County are thrilled to announce three new Caesars Foundation of Floyd County Small Business Revolving Loan Fund recipients.  The loan assists businesses that provide evidence of Floyd County operations and projected impact of the proposed loan on the Floyd County economy.  To acquire eligibility, business owners must also have a two-year track record or transferable experience. The most recent recipients include Classic Restorations of Southern Indiana, LLC, Revive Salon and Spa, LLC, and Southern Indiana Spray Foam.

Classic Restorations of Southern Indiana LLC specializes in restoring, remodeling, and/or full-out customizing pre ‘72 cars and trucks in Southern Indiana since 1991. They offer services in metal fabrication, body/paint, mechanical, plumbing, electrical, and minor interior work. Their number one goal is to make their customers happy while striving for high quality standards and attention to detail.

“We would like to thank the Caesars Foundation for providing us funding to purchase the needed equipment to grow and outfit our new location. They have been great to work with and an asset to the community.” –Dustin and Pat Foust, owners

Revive Salon and Spa LLC is a salon and spa that is looking forward to utilizing funds to make the salon and spa ADA compliant. Angela G. Torp is the sole member of Revive and aims to welcome everyone to her salon.

“Caesars helped me create a dream and create a beautiful ADA compliant space for everyone to enjoy! They have helped give an old building new life and creating a safe and inviting space.”
— Angela Torp, Sole Member

Southern Indiana Spray Foam offers a variety of spray foam services in commercial and residential sectors. They are capable of insulating walls, ceilings, and roofs, as well as insulation for soundproofing. They pride themselves on 24/7 Availability, offering services at an affordable price, and free estimates.

“I was impacted by the Caesars board which was a very positive experience and led me to the success that awaits me. Thank you all.” — Keith Norton, CEO

Loan amounts range from $5,000 to $50,000 with a maximum interest rate less than the prime rate of interest. Maximum terms of loans are 10 years for land and building loans, five years for equipment loans, and two years for working capital loans. For more information, contact Rachael Armstrong at One Southern Indiana at (812) 206-9021 or RachaelA@1si.org.

“The Caesars Foundation is thrilled to offer loans from the Small Business Revolving Loan Fund to three local businesses,” said Executive Director, Tyler Bliss. “The Caesars Foundation encourages economic development in Floyd County, and small businesses are the heart of our community. We look forward to watching these businesses grow.”

“One Southern Indiana is always excited to watch business owners turn their dreams into reality,” said President and CEO, Lance Allison. “Rachael, our Small Business Navigator, is an excellent resource for small businesses looking to grow and succeed in Floyd County. We thank the Caesars Foundation for their continued support of entrepreneurial endeavors in our region.”

About the Caesars Foundation of Floyd County

The Caesars Foundation of Floyd County is a private foundation created to benefit the Floyd County community. The Foundation’s philanthropic focus traditionally falls into the categories of grant-making to charitable non-profit organizations, educational scholarships, and program-related investments that encourage economic development. For more visit www.caesarsfoundationfc.org.

About One Southern Indiana  
One Southern Indiana was formed in July of 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to provide the connections, resources, and services that help businesses innovate and thrive in the Southern Indiana / Louisville metro area. For more, visit 1si.org.  

For Additional Information: 

Tyler Bliss
Executive Director
Phone: 812-945-4332
Email: Tyler@CaesarsFoundationFC.org

Rachael Armstrong
Small Business Navigator
Phone: (812) 206-9021
Email: RachaelA@1si.org

Ellinor Smith
Content Marketing and Media Relations Manager
Phone: (812) 945-0266  
Email: Ellinors@1si.org

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Mansion 1886 Announces Grand Reopening Under New Ownership

by with No Comment Member News

New Albany, IN – Mansion 1886, a beloved historic venue in the heart of New Albany, Indiana, is set to celebrate a new era with its Grand Reopening on April 11, 2024. Under the new ownership of Rick and Libby Stumler, Mansion 1886 has undergone a stunning transformation, restoring and enhancing its timeless charm while elevating the guest experience.

With a deep appreciation for the venue’s history and significance, the Stumlers have invested in key renovations, including a completely refinished Ballroom ceiling, which has brightened and revitalized the space, as well as the addition of a luxurious new bridal suite designed for comfort and elegance. The venue’s landscaping has also been refreshed, enhancing its curb appeal and ensuring a welcoming first impression for guests.

Mansion 1886 has long been a premier destination for weddings, corporate events, and private gatherings, known for its distinctive blend of historic charm and modern sophistication. The recent updates further solidify its reputation as one of the region’s most sought-after event spaces.

To showcase these enhancements, Mansion 1886 will host an open house-style Grand Reopening event on April 11 from 4:00 to 7:00 PM. Attendees will have the opportunity to tour the newly renovated space while enjoying:

  • Music from Perfect Pitch Events & Entertainment

  • Appetizers provided by Stumler’s Catering & charcuterie from Shack in the Back BBQ

  • A decadent chocolate fountain experience from Louisville Chocolate Fountain

  • A fun photo booth experience from Flash Fiends

“This venue has always been a gem in our community, and we are honored to continue its legacy while making thoughtful updates to enhance the experience for our clients,” said Rick Stumler, co-owner of Mansion 1886. “We can’t wait to welcome guests and event planners to see the changes for themselves.”

The event is open to engaged couples, corporate planners, non-profit organizations, and the general public looking for an elegant and historic venue to host their upcoming celebrations. While RSVPs are encouraged, they are not required.

RSVP Here – https://bit.ly/MansionReopening 

For more information about the Grand Reopening or to schedule a private tour, visit Mansion1886.com.

Contact:
Megan Jones
Mansion 1886
office@mansion1886.com | 812-850-1184 | mansion1886.com 

Advocacy-Update-Email-Header2

Advocacy Update | 04.02.25

by with No Comment 1si NewsAdvocacy

Advocacy-Update-Email-Header2

Our Advocacy Committee continues to meet and discuss relevant bills to our local businesses and constituents. We encourage everyone to see upcoming deadlines. Below, read more information about the bills and updates. 

  • Tuesday, April 15, 2025: Last day for House adoption of conference committee reports without Rules Committee approval 
  • Tuesday, April 15, 2025: Last day for Senate adoption of conference committee reports without Rules Committee approval. 
  • Tuesday, April 15, 2025: Last day for 3rd reading of House bills in the Senate. 
  • Tuesday, April 15, 2025: Last day for 3rd reading of Senate bills in House. 

We invite you to learn more about local priorities at our Regional Leadership Luncheon Friday April 11th, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. The event is an opportunity for you to meet and greet local officials, ask questions, and hear about their priorities for our communities. 

Click here to register. 

Check out 1si News and see all of our advocacy updates. Stay up to date and informed. Check out our news page here. 

 

Current List of Bills 1si Supports:  

SB-463: Child Care Matters  

Explanation: Adds additional qualified childcare for purposes of the employer childcare expenditure tax credit and extends the credit availability through July 1, 2027. The bill will help support adequate funding and staffing for Indiana childcare centers. The bill strongly ties to 1si’s call to action which emphasizes the affordability and quality of childcare.  

  • Status:  
  • 3/27/2025-Recommitted to Committee on Ways and Means Pursuant to House Rule 126.3 
  • 3/27/2025-Committee report: amend do pass, adopted 
  • 3/3/2025-First reading: referred to Committee on Family, Children and Human Affairs 
  • Referred to the House 
  • 2/21/2025- Referred to the House 

 

SB-443: Business personal property tax  

Explanation: The bill proposed to increase business tax exemption by $20,000. This change should help reduce the administrative burden on small businesses, especially those with few fixed assets. However, the impact of the increase is expected to be minor, as it is a relatively small adjustment.  

  • Status:   
  • 3/3/2025- First reading: referred to Committee on Ways and Means 
  • 2/14/2025- Referred to the House  
  • 2/13/2025- House sponsor: Representative Snow  
  • 2/13/2025- Third reading passed; Roll Call 127: 
    • Yeas: 39 
    • Nays: 7  

 

HB-1172: Office of entrepreneurship and innovation  

  • Status:  
  • 2/20/2025- First reading: referred to Committee on Commerce and Technology 
  • 2/12/2025- Referred to the Senate  
  • 2/11/2025- Senate sponsor: Senator Buchanan  
  • 2/11/2025- Third reading passed; Roll Call  
    • Yeas: 131  
    • Nays: 7  

 

HB-1248: Child Care and Development Fund  

Explanation: The bill will help prioritize foster parents to gain assistance through the Childcare Development Fund. The bill strongly connects to 1si’s call to action to increase the availability and affordability of childcare.  

  • Status:   
  • 3/27/2025-Signed by the Speaker 
  • 3/24/2025-House concurred with Senate amendments; Roll Call 304 
    • Yeas: 95 
    • Nays: 0 
  • 3/20/2025- Motion to concur filed 
  • 3/19/2025- Returned to the House with amendments 

 

Current List of Bills 1si is Monitoring:  

Senate Bills:  

SB-1: Property Tax Relief  

Explanation: We are closely monitoring this bill because the changes to residential and personal taxes significantly impact infrastructure, municipal funding, and workforce education. Based on the reports from the Association of Indiana Counties, you can see the impact of SB-1 here. In light of the bill, we are strongly advocating for the clarity of the expected impacts of this bill on businesses and individuals from our local government officials and elected state officials. We strongly advise our members to understand the bill’s effect within our communities.  

  • Status:  
  • 3/3/2025- First reading: referred to Committee on Ways and Means 
  • 2/19/2025- Representatives Snow and Jordan added as cosponsors 
  • 2/18/2025- Referred to the House 

 

SB-314: Pass through entity tax  

  • Status:  
  • 3/26/2025-Signed by the Speaker 
  • 3/26/2025-Signed by the President Pro Tempore 
  • 3/25/2025-Senate concurred with House amendments: Roll Call 295 
    • Yeas: 47 
    • Nays: 0 
  • 3/24/2025- Pursuant to Senate Rule 68(b); reassigned to Committee on Rules and Legislative Procedure 

SB-423: Small modular nuclear reactor pilot program 

  • Status:  
  • 3/3/2025- First reading: referred to Committee on Utilities, Energy and Telecommunications 
  • 2/4/2025- Referred to House  
  • 2/3/2025- House sponsor: Representative Soliday  
  • 2/3/2025- Third reading passed; Roll Call 60  
    • Yeas 41  
    • Nays:7   

SB-426: Water utilities 

  • Status:  
  • 3/24/2025-Signed by the Speaker 
  • 3/24/2025-Signed by the President Pro Tempore 
  • 3/21/20- Returned to the Senate without amendments 
  • 3/20/2025- Third reading: passed; Roll Call 292 
    • Yeas: 76 
    • Nays: 15 

SB-488: Skills training pilot program  

  • Status:  
  • 3/20/2025- Recommitted to Committee on Ways and Means pursuant to House Rule 126.3 
  • 3/20/2025- Committee report: do pass, adopted 
  • 3/3/2025- First reading: referred to Committee on Employment, Labor and Pensions 

 

SB-518: School property taxes 

  • Status: 
  • 3/3/2025- First reading: referred to Committee on Ways and Means 
  • 2/21/2025- Referred to the House 
  • 2/20/2025- Third reading: passed; Roll Call 210 
    • Yeas: 28 
    • Nays: 21 

 

House Bills 

HB-1003: Health matters. 

Explanation: Addresses site-neutral payment requirements, burdensome 340B requirements, the extension of site-neutral payments to nonprofit hospital settings, and hospital billing requirements.  

  • Status: 
  • 3/3/2025- Pursuant to Senate Rule 68(b); reassigned to Committee on Health and Provider Services 
  • 3/3/2025- First reading: referred to Committee on Insurance and Financial Institutions 
  • 2/19/2025- Referred to the Senate 
  • 2/18/2025- Third reading passed; Roll Call 201 
    • Yeas: 66 
    • Nays: 32 

 

HB-1004: Nonprofit Hospitals  

Education: Loss of non-profit status is any charge item is in excess of 300% of Medicare and includes an excise tax to be imposed upon a hospital each time the hospital charges a patient a facility fee that exceeds 265% of Medicare. 

  • Status: 
  • 3/20/2025- Committee report: do pass adopted; reassigned to Committee on Appropriations 
  • 3/3/2025- First reading: referred to Committee on Health and Provider Services 
  • 2/21/2025- Referred to the Senate 
  • 2/20/2025- Third reading: passed; Roll Call 239 
    • Yeas: 68 
    • Nays: 26 


HB-1214: Workers’ compensation  

  • Status:  
  • Returned to the House with amendments 
  • 3/27/2025-Third reading: passed; Roll Call 299 
    • Yeas: 48 
    • Nays: 0 
  • 3/25/2025-Second reading: ordered engrossed 
  • 3/20/2025- Committee report: amend do pass, adopted 

 

HB-1226: Medicare supplement insurance  

  • Status:  
  • 3/27/2025-Signed by speaker 
  • 3/26/2025-Returned to the House without amendments 
  • 3/25/2025-Third reading: passed; Roll Call 283 
    • Yeas: 45 
    • Nays: 2 
  • 3/24/2025-Second reading: order engrossed 
  • 3/20/2025-Committee report: do pass, adopted 

 

HB-1347: Real estate matters 

  • Status:  
  • 3/19/2025- Returned to the House with amendments 
  • 3/18/2025- Third reading: ordered engrossed 
  • 3/17/2025- Second reading: ordered engrossed 
  • 3/13/2025- Committee report: amend do pass, adopted 

You can find a copy of the 1si 2024 Advocacy Agenda by visiting https://1si.org/advocacy/ or downloading a PDF copy here.   

Grand Opening of Clarksville Parks and Recreation Soccer Complex

by with No Comment Member News

Date: Saturday, April 5
Time: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Location: Clarksville Soccer Complex (Formerly known as Clarksville Softball Complex) – Lapping Park, 961 Potters Ln, Clarksville, IN 47129

CLARKSVILLE, IND. (March 28,2025) – Clarksville Parks & Recreation is proud to announce the Grand Opening of soccer fields at Lapping Park. A special ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place at 2 p.m. during the grand opening, featuring the Clarksville Parks and Recreation Department, Southern Indiana United (SIU), and town officials. We invite the community to join us on Saturday, April 5, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. for a celebration filled with soccer, entertainment, and local community spirit.

The opening event will feature:

  • SIU Travel Friendlies: Witness competitive soccer action as travel teams showcase their
  • SIU Rec Games: Support local recreational teams and enjoy a day of spirited
  • Silent Auction: Participate in exciting bids to benefit local causes and
  • Food Trucks: Delight in a variety of local culinary offerings from our community’s favorite
  • Ribbon Cutting Ceremony: Join us at 2 m. for a special ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Clarksville Parks and Recreation Department, SIU, and town officials.
  • And MORE!

 

The repurposed softball complex will now be a soccer complex which represents a significant investment in the community’s athletic infrastructure, aiming to support athletes and promote active lifestyles.

“We are excited to repurpose these fields and see them utilized more frequently,” BJ Nelson Lynton said. “This complex will help grow soccer in the Clarksville area and serve as a valuable asset for organizations like Southern Indiana United and the broader community.”

All community members, whether soccer enthusiasts or those simply looking for a fun day out, are encouraged to attend. Bring your friends and family to Lapping Park on April 5 and be part of this exciting new chapter.

Event Details:

  • What: Grand Opening of Clarksville Parks and Recreation Soccer Complex
  • When: Saturday, April 5, 10 m. – 5 p.m.
  • Where: Clarksville Soccer Complex (Formerly known as Clarksville Softball Complex) – Lapping Park, 961 Potters Ln, Clarksville, IN 47129

For more information, contact Clarksville Parks & Recreation at 812-283-5313, info@clarksvilleparks.com, or visit https://siusoccer.com/fieldgrandopening/ We look forward to welcoming the community to our new fields!