Huntingburg mayor intends to see projects through
Huntingburg Mayor Denny Spinner took time today to clear the air about his intentions to seek reelection next year.
“I am officially announcing that I am seeking reelection as the mayor of the City of Huntingburg,” Spinner said. “I campaigned on three themes, progress, professionalism, and pride. I can confidently state those themes have been set forward when I look at the work that has been done over the past two and a half years.”
Spinner pointed out the progress on the Huntingburg railroad overpass, a $10 million project that will connect the city’s north and south halves for the first time in its history. Projected to be completed in 2018, the project was the lynchpin that pulled the Stellar Community proposal together for the city.
“There is a lot of pride in our community,” Spinner said. “The progress is coming. Over the next four years, around $10 million in state funds are coming our way. Plus, the additional private investment in the range of $20 million; the progress is going to happen. A lot has been done, but a lot remains to be done and that is part of my motivation for seeking the office again. I am committed to seeing the Stellar programs through.”
He mentioned the progress with Miller Valentine’s planned senior living project at the former hospital building. The hospital has been empty since 2007 and work on the new senior housing is expected to begin in November.
He also pointed out the new or reestablished businesses on Fourth Street. Several operated by young female entrepreneurs, including Cool Beans where he gave his announcement today.
In regards to professionalism, Spinner stated he has taken leadership roles in the Indiana Association of Cities and Towns (IACT) as a member of the organization’s board of directors. He is also active in the Indiana Conference of Mayors.
He explained that since he has taken office, the city has also examined its ordinances to operate more efficiently.
Spinner spearheaded the “Reviving the Pride” community events that led to the ideas incorporated into the Stellar plan.
Over the next 16 months of his current term, Spinner pointed out potential changes in tax incremental financing (TIF) and business personal property tax changes that could directly impact Huntingburg.
Huntingburg has led the county in implementing tax incremental financing districts to pay for infrastructure and improvements in the city. Funds from those districts will assist in paying for the projects listed in the Stellar Community proposal.
Governor Mike Pence Gov. sought a complete phase-out of the personal property tax during the last legislative session but legislators handed him a watered-down bill that allowed local officials the ability to reduce or eliminate business personal property taxes.
A loss or reduction of business personal property taxes will directly impact the city’s budget.
Spinner, a lifelong resident of the city, stated that when he began to explore the idea to run for mayor, he had determined that it was going to be an 8-year commitment if the voters so chose.
“I will never, never take for granted the honor of representing the City of Huntingburg and its citizens as its mayor,” he said. “I am proud to work for a city that formed me. That I have loved all my life and love more everyday because of what I see. I will be honored to continue this work and that’s why I will seek reelection in 2015.”
Spinner will be up for reelection in 2015. At this time, no other candidates have announce their intentions to run for the Huntingburg mayor’s office.
His wife, Shari, was present at the small gathering today and she voiced her support for her husband’s continued efforts at the helm of the city.
