The Greater Ellettsville Area Chamber of Commerce hosted an Ellettsville–Richland Township Reorganization Panel Discussion on September 23, bringing together local business, education and community leaders for a conversation about the proposed reorganization and what it could mean for our community’s future.
Thank you to Monroe County Airport, our presenting sponsor, for helping make the event possible. We also appreciate Moriah Sowders of Boston Scientific for serving as moderator and guiding the conversation, as well as our panelists:
- Cullen McCarty, Smithville
- Valerie DeWar, Hoosier Family Eyecare
- Dr. Jerry Sanders, Richland-Bean Blossom Community School Corporation
Watch the Full Discussion
Community Access Television Services (CATS) recorded the full panel discussion, and it is available to watch online. Watch the Reorganization Panel on CATS
A Conversation About Growth, Business and Community
The discussion covered a wide range of topics, including economic development, infrastructure, planning and zoning, public safety, education, taxes, small business and the long-term future of Ellettsville and Richland Township.
From a large-business perspective, Cullen McCarty discussed the importance of infrastructure and the ability to plan for growth locally. He pointed to water, sewer, roads, police and fire protection, power and telecommunications as important factors in attracting and supporting business investment. He also emphasized the importance of coordinating with regional economic development partners as the area continues to grow.
Valerie DeWar spoke about the potential benefits of simplifying the process for small businesses. She noted that businesses locating in the township can currently encounter multiple layers of government, zoning and permitting. She said a more unified local structure could make it easier for small businesses to navigate those processes while also creating opportunities for additional business growth.
The panel also discussed how planning and development could be coordinated while maintaining the town and township’s different characteristics. DeWar noted that the proposed plan does not simply apply the same zoning throughout the entire area, but would allow the town and township areas to retain their respective zoning while working together under one local government.
Schools, Workforce and Economic Development
Dr. Jerry Sanders discussed the strong partnerships already in place between Richland-Bean Blossom Community School Corporation, local businesses, and the Town of Ellettsville. He highlighted programs that connect students with local employers, including business partnerships, internships, career pathways and student-run businesses.
Dr. Sanders also discussed the school corporation’s conversations with town leaders regarding the financial implications of reorganization. He said the school corporation expects a reduction in revenue during the first few years, with that impact expected to be neutralized by 2030, based on analysis conducted with the assistance of Policy Analytics and Baker Tilly. He also discussed the potential long-term relationship between community infrastructure, economic development, population growth, and the school corporation.
Public Safety and Infrastructure
The panel discussed the long-standing relationship between the Town of Ellettsville and Richland Township in providing fire protection and the importance of maintaining strong public safety services as the community grows.
McCarty also emphasized that future growth will require continued investment in infrastructure, including roads, water, sewer, utilities and telecommunications. The panelists discussed the opportunity for local government and the business community to work together to plan for that growth.
Taxes and Financial Considerations
Taxes were also a significant part of the discussion. McCarty emphasized that the financial impact will differ depending on individual circumstances, including the type and value of property owned, and encouraged residents and businesses to review the available information and educate themselves about the proposal.
The panel also discussed the broader changes to Indiana’s tax system under SEA 1 and the uncertainty surrounding future state and local revenues. Panelists encouraged attendees to look at the available information and consider how the proposed reorganization could affect their individual situation.
Looking Toward the Future
When asked to look 10 to 15 years into the future, the panelists discussed opportunities related to workforce development, housing, business growth, infrastructure, quality of life and continued partnerships between schools and local employers.
Valerie DeWar also connected the discussion to the community’s Envision Ellettsville initiative, describing the potential for coordinated efforts around quality of life, infrastructure, green space, parks and downtown development. She noted that combining the town and township would create a larger population and a broader local voice while maintaining a community small enough to work together effectively.
The discussion concluded with encouragement for residents to be informed, review the available information and participate in the November election (information below). The Chamber has created a dedicated Reorganization webpage with information about the proposal, frequently asked questions, official documents, financial resources, voting information and additional sources. The page will continue to be updated as new information becomes available.
Thank you again to Monroe County Airport, our presenting sponsor; Moriah Sowders of Boston Scientific, our moderator; our panelists; and everyone who attended and participated in this important community conversation.
Voting Information
The proposed Ellettsville–Richland Township reorganization will be on the November 3, 2026, General Election ballot.
Election Day: Tuesday, November 3, 2026
Polls: 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Early Voting:
In-person early voting begins Tuesday, October 6, 2026, and continues through Monday, November 2, 2026, at noon.
Monroe County Early Voting Locations & Hours:
The Monroe County Election Board will provide the official locations and hours for early voting. Check the county’s election information for the most current schedule: Monroe County Election Board
Election Central:
501 N. Morton Street, Suite 101
Bloomington, IN 47404
(812) 349-2690
Voter Registration Deadline: Monday, October 5, 2026.
Register to Vote or Check Your Registration
Voter Information & Polling Locations
For the latest information about early voting locations, hours, polling places and other election information in Monroe County, visit the Monroe County Election Board website.
How it will look on the ballot:
