Merger talks going on for 2 communities

GREENWOOD, Ind. (WISH) - Plans are in the works to make Greenwood the sixth largest city in Indiana.

Under the plan, Greenwood would consolidate with the northern two-thirds of unincorporated White River Township.

24-Hour News 8 talked to area residents to find out just how they felt about it.

"I would say 95% to 98% of the people who talk to me as their executive, as their trustee, want nothing to do with this. Their first option, leave me alone," said White River Township Trustee Jay Marks.

Marks told 24-Hour News 8 he has big problems with a proposed merger with the city of Greenwood, namely property taxes which he says some residents might see jump by 20%.

"We want nothing to do with the city Greenwood. Point blank, cut and dry," said Marks.

Under the plan, Greenwood would consolidate with the northern two-thirds of unincorporated White River Township. Police, road, parks, sewer, planning and fire services would all be provided by Greenwood.

"It would increase taxes, but it would increase services," said Greenwood City Council President Ron Deer.

Deer admits some may see tax hikes, but the plan would create a city of some 90,000, stronger in economic and political clout.

"Approximately a year ago, the suggestion was made that we put together the opportunity for a study merger and see what the benefits would be. If it doesn't happen, the city of Greenwood will still be in great financial shape and we'll move forward," Deer said.

Both Greenwood City Council and the White River Township Board will vote separately on the plan later this month. The big test will come when the public gets to decide come next May.

Also under the plan, Greenwood's budget would jump from roughly $23 million to about $32 million. Marks has issues with that too.

"I want to make sure that the residents of White River Township have the true facts on the table when they go to the polls in May to vote for this," Marks said.

Deer said as part of the merger, the White River Township Trustee job Jay Marks holds would be eliminated.

Marks is holding a Town Hall Meeting on this issue next Tuesday evening at Center Grove High School.

Greenwood City Council and the White River Township Board will vote on the plan December 21 and December 22. It's up for a referendum vote May 4, 2010.