Traders Point, Indiana

Eagle Creek Watershed Alliance Receives $650,000 Grant

2010-01-19T07:10:00.001-05:00

By John Ulmer
Posted: January 18, 2010
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The Eagle Creek Watershed Alliance, ECWA, was awarded a federal Clean Water Act grant to continue its work in the Eagle Creek Watershed. The watershed, all the land area that drains into Eagle Creek reservoir, includes portions of Boone, Hamilton and Marion counties in central Indiana. The Alliance, and its predecessor the Eagle Creek Watershed Task Force, have worked to improve water quality for over ten years.
The focus of this grant will be to reduce nutrient loads in the water. Excessive amounts of nitrogen and phosphorus (two of the three major components of fertilizer) provide plenty of food for aquatic plants, especially algae. Excessive algae “blooms” (dense floating mats of algae) degrade water quality by reducing oxygen and producing taste and odor problems as the algae dies and decomposes. While taste and odor have been problems in past years, blue-green algae presents new challenges for the three area drinking water supply reservoirs. Blue-green algae can produce a toxin called microcystin which can cause eye, ear, skin irritation and in high concentrations be a liver toxin. Blue-green algae has been a particular problem in Geist reservoir in the past.
The Center for Earth and Environmental Sciences at IUPUI recently developed a Microcystin analysis laboratory which is the only one of its type in Indiana. The Center is also the administrator for the Alliances grant as well as providing essential scientific support. Past efforts of the Alliance have included the promotion of no-till farming practices, fencing of livestock from being able to get into streams, manure management systems to reduce runoff into streams, education of hundreds of elementary students in water quality awareness and DNA typing of e. Coli bacteria just to mention a few.
The ECWA’s goal, in this grant, is to limit the amount of nutrients entering our waters through the education of homeowners in reducing the amount of phosphorus used on their lawns. Other groups such as Indiana Wildlife Federation are also working to educate the public on the importance of reducing the amount of nutrients that we put on our lawns that eventually ends up in our waters. Reducing or removing the phosphorus in the fertilizer you apply this spring is something you should consider.
John Ulmer is for Eagle Creek Watershed Alliance.

Indiana regulators ban IPL tree trimming on private land

2009-12-15T07:19:00.001-05:00

December 14, 2009

By John Tuohy
john.tuohy@indystar.com

http://www.in.gov/iurc/" target="_blank">The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission has temporarily stripped Indianapolis Power and Light of its unique written permission to go on private property to raze and snip trees.

“This is very good news,” said Jerry Baker, a resident of Traders Point who helped spearhead citizen opposition to what he calls aggressive tree trimming practices. “This shows that they are listening.”

The IURC found that only IPL has a written clause in its charter, or tariff, to trim and destroy private trees if it thinks it’s necessary to keep electricity flowing. The state’s four other utilities, the IURC suggested, operate just as efficiently without the controversial tool.

“It does not appear that such a provision is necessary for public utilities to provide electric service,” the IURC said in its ruling last Thursday. It found it “to be without authority granted by statute or Commission rule.”

The immediate effect of the temporary suspension was unknown but Baker said it could expose the utility to lawsuits.

“That provision was put in there was for legal cover,” Baker said. “They go in, knock all the trees down, and then say they are allowed to by the provision.”

IURC spokeswoman Danielle McGrath said the order does not bar IPL from still going onto private property, because all utilities are allowed to do so to a certain degree. But it does force them “to the language from their policy and make them operate as any other utility.”

The IURC has been investigating tree trimming in Indiana since April. The probe is scheduled to end in a few months.

An IPL spokeswoman refused to comment.

IURC suspends tree trimming pending final order (VICTORY!)

2009-12-12T08:17:00.004-05:00

Dear Traders Point Neighbors:

I met today with our State Senator Mike Delph (about a new impending tree removal disaster from another utility, Vectren), and, in the process of our discussion, I learned from Mike that just yesterday (12-10-09) IURC issued a ruling in the investigation of electric utility tree trimming practices and tariffs. The complete ruling is attached. In its last sentence it says that the tariff 15.2 (that said IPL is allowed to trim and remove trees on private property) is suspended pending the final order of the proceedings.
IURC's Tree Trimming Decision 12-10-2009 -

This is quite an accomplishment by us little David citizens that came together to take on the Goliath IPL.

Sincerely,
MAStevens
TPAN Secretary
/IURC%27s%20Tree%20Trimming%20Decision%2012-10-2009.pdf
On Sat, Dec 12, 2009 at 11:18 AM, Jerry and Cindy Baker wrote:
Charlie and I were not sure this was public yet, but it obviously is. Thanks to Mary Ann for the verification.

In my opinion there is still questionable legal language in 15.1, and 15.3 that also needs consideration, but this is a very positive indication from the IURC that we are being heard.
Keep in mind the word "suspended", but, nevertheless, with the help of many, we have really achieved something here. Hopefully, much more positive progress to come.
This news will be sent to our larger list shortly.

Thanks to all of you...

Jerry Baker / Charles Goodman

TOX DROP REOPENS

2009-12-02T17:08:00.001-05:00

Dear Traders Point Neighbors:

As follow up to the Lafayette Road Bridge over Eagle Creek reopening to traffic, the city's tox drop location is also reopening (see news release below). I, myself, was in hopes the city would rethink having a collection site for toxic and hazardous materials on the banks of Eagle Creek, water supply to the reservoir providing drinking water to 500,000 Central Indiana residents, but the reopening of the tox drop signals the city is comfortable with the risk of accident, spill, or malicious mischief. Have others of you noticed the sign at the tox drop, which was replaced by an even larger sign, saying do not leave materials when the tox drop location is not open (only open on first and third Saturdays of the month)? The sign was ignored by numerous people as evidenced by the collection of cans of paint and other materials that mounted up between Saturdays when the facility was open. Heaven forbid, any pranksters decide to toss that collection into the creek. At least, fellow TPANers, only take your materials for disposal to the tox drop during hours the facility is open.

Other news items included below are:
City addresses parking citations in a new way.

For Facebook and Twitter fans, you can follow the Pike Twp. Fire Marshall on these sites.

Sincerely,
MAStevens
TPAN Secretary
___
htp

TRADER’S POINT TOXDROP LOCATION RE-OPENS Program officials excited about once again expanding opportunity to northwest Indy

INDIANAPOLIS – The ToxDrop Trader’s Point Collection Facility will once again open to offer northwest area residents a convenient location to properly dispose of unwanted and unused household hazardous waste (HHW.

Due to the Lafayette Road over Eagle Creek bridge replacement project, program officials decided to temporarily close the Trader’s Point Facility until construction of the new bridge could be completed. The previous bridge was replaced with a three-span, pre-stressed concrete beam bridge.

“The Trader’s Point facility is very popular with northwest Indy residents who are acutely aware of the need to keep household hazardous waste out of our sewers and waterways through proper disposal of these materials,” said ToxDrop Program Manager Nathan Self. “We’re excited about the opportunity to once again offer area residents an easy, convenient way to properly dispose of potentially dangerous household waste.”

The facility, located at 7550 N. Lafayette Rd , will resume previous hours of operation on the first and third Saturday of each month, from 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

A program of the city’s SustainIndy initiative, ToxDrop is a free collection service that makes it easier for Marion County residents to properly dispose of their household hazardous waste year-round. Over the last decade, the ToxDrop program has been able to divert more than a quarter of a million gallons of HHW from the city's sewers, waterways and aquifers through periodic ToxAway events and on scheduled Saturdays. The ToxDrop program is a significant advancement to help residents properly and safely dispose of HHW. For a list of accepted materials and additional collection sites, visit www.sustainindy.org/toxdrop.cfm.

Mayor Ballard launched SustainIndy and created the Office of Sustainability in October, 2008. SustainIndy is a bold and innovative enterprise aimed at delivering long-term cost savings to the City, building the local economy, improving our quality of life and enhancing our environmental and public health. Its efforts are designed to aggressively move Indianapolis forward in making it one of the most sustainable cities in the Midwest.

_________________________________________________________________

Lafayette Road Bridge OPEN (! ! !)

2009-11-26T09:43:00.001-05:00

Dear Traders Point Neighbors:

You may have already seen that the barriers are gone from 71st and Lafayette Road indicating that the project to reconstruct the bridge over Eagle Creek is finished and Lafayette Road is open to traffic once again. (See below for the city's release describing the project.) Blessings to Noel Road for all the traffic it carried during this bridge closing---may it have a more peaceful and restful existence from now on!

Also below, you can read the city's statement about increased crack sealing being accomplished on roadways to combat pot holes developing.

Happy Thanksgiving to all.

Sincerely,
MAStevens
TPAN Secretary
___
htp

LAFAYETTE ROAD BRIDGE OVER EAGLE CREEK REOPENS
All lanes of traffic are open and unrestricted; ToxDrop location to open
soon

INDIANAPOLIS - Northwest side residents and commuters can enjoy a
smoother route to work and home thanks to the replacement of the
Lafayette Road Bridge over Eagle Creek. After being closed for the
construction and total replacement of the concrete bridge, Lafayette
Road from 71st to 79th streets is now open to accommodate the estimated
8,000 vehicles that travel the thoroughfare daily.

"The structural support of this bridge was deteriorating and
necessitated a complete replacement," said Department of Public Works
Director David Sherman. "The average life span of a bridge is about 50
years and the Lafayette Road Bridge was built in the 1920s and widened
to four lanes in 1935."

Work began on the three-span, prestressed concrete beam bridge in March
2009 and included the construction of a new bridge deck, beams and
rails. Texas classic rails were constructed, which helped improve the
appearance of the bridge railing. The project also included the
resurfacing of the bridge and includes a bike lane that connects to
Eagle Creek Park.

"The city's infrastructure is aging and in need of repair," Sherman
said. "We recognize the importance of bridges as a part of our overall
infrastructure maintenance, but we're facing an estimated need of $291
million to replace or rehabilitate our aging bridges. As a result, we're
working to prioritize our bridge work."

In addition to the Lafayette Road Bridge, the city plans to replace or
reconstruct 10 bridge structures, totaling more than $18 million in
construction costs from 2009 through 2013.

Eighty percent of the $2.3 million Lafayette Road Bridge over Eagle
Creek costs was federally funded. The other 20 percent was matched with
local dollars.

The ToxDrop location at the Traders Point Collection Facility has been
temporarily closed for construction on this project and is scheduled to
reopen in early December.

For more information on the ToxDrop Program, please visit
www.sustainindy.org/toxdrop.cfm.

For more information on the Indy BikeWays Plan, please visit
www.sustainindy.org/bikeways.cfm.

Mayor Ballard launched SustainIndy and created the Office of
Sustainability in October of 2008. Both represent an innovative
enterprise aimed at delivering long-term cost savings to the city,
building the local economy, improving our quality of life and enhancing
our environmental and public health. Its efforts are designed to
aggressively move Indianapolis forward in making it one of the most
sustainable cities in the Midwest. For more information, visit
www.sustainindy.org.

###
----------------
CITY CONTINUES TO MAKE MILESTONE IMPROVEMENTS IN STREET MAINTENANCE
Unprecedented strategy expected to yield better results than ever

INDIANAPOLIS - In an unprecedented strategy in Mayor Ballard's mission
to improve city streets, the Department of Public Works (DPW) have begun
efforts to crack-seal more than 1,400 lane miles of city streets by the
spring of 2010 in one of the most significant preventive maintenance
efforts the city has ever seen.

"It's good sense and fiscally responsible to invest in projects that
have proven results," said Mayor Greg Ballard. "Due to a combined effort
of crack-sealing, better pothole repair methods and more efficient
management of resources, we've averaged about 5,000 less pothole
complaints from July to November 2009 vs. the same period in 2008."

In previous years, the accomplishment of very little crack-sealing by
the city had a major impact on the number of potholes residents and
commuters had to navigate when driving city streets during the winter
and spring of 2008. In addition to implementing Six Sigma strategies to
improve the pothole repair process, city officials committed to a more
proactive approach budgeting $1.4 million for crack-sealing work and
purchasing 4 new crack-sealing machines By the end of 2008, city
operations crews completed over 250 lane miles of crack-sealing
contributing to significantly less pothole complaints and a greatly
decreased number of potholes across the city.

Directed by Mayor Ballard to find ways to do more to protect citizens
and their vehicles from existing street damage, department officials
combined the resources of the engineering and street maintenance
divisions of DPW. This strategy for improving existing street
infrastructure allowed the city to contract out almost 1,200 lane miles
of crack sealing work to supplement approximately 250 lane miles of
crack-sealing work planned by the street maintenance division.

Funds for the effort are a result of under-run savings of about $2
million from other engineering projects.

"As we are doing in all areas of city infrastructure, we will continue
to work to creatively identify ways to better protect residents as they
travel city streets," said DPW Director David Sherman. "With the
preventive maintenance of crack-sealing work, roads will be better and
there will be less damage to vehicles."

Potholes are formed when water and moisture freeze after seeping under
streets through cracks in the pavement. The frozen water causes the
pavement to expand resulting in a concave area underneath the road
surface once the frozen water melts. A pothole results once the weights
of traveling vehicles break the hollow area under the pavement surface.
Sealing the cracks in the road surface before water and moisture can
enter them is a proven method of preventing the formation of potholes.

The current cycle time average for pothole repairs has remained constant
from July through November at 2.2 days. The number of pothole complaints
received this time in 2008 was 17,412. Current requests this year are
5,112 less at 12,300.

For more information about the Chuckhole Kaizen process click on the
following link to learn more about the city's efforts in partnership
with Eli Lilly to improve pothole repair methods in Marion County.
http://indianapolis.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?publish_id=223

To report a pothole online visit:
http://www.indy.gov/eGov/Mayor/Pages/Pothole.aspx.
You may also call the Mayor's Action Center (MAC) at 327-4622 to report
a pothole.

Eagle Creek Park Foundation Fall Newsletter

2009-11-26T09:41:00.000-05:00

The fall newsletter is now available on the website at Eagle Creek Park Foundation.

As you know the membership drive letters and forms have been delayed due to changes in the way that Indy Parks will be handling season passes. The Foundation will no longer be selling its own pass to the park. Instead we will be sending out a voucher for each pass purchased through the Foundation that can then be exchanged for an Indy Parks card for access to the park. These Foundation vouchers can only be purchased through the Foundation and not at the gatehouses, so it will be important for you to return the membership form that you download from the website in order to support the Foundation and its goals. We hope to send out the membership drive emails shortly after the Thanksgiving holiday.

Thank you very much for your patience and have a safe and happy holiday and a great season at the park!
Your Eagle Creek Park Foundation Board and Staff

Original site of Traders Point Indian settlement to be protected by conservation easement

2009-11-18T13:41:00.003-05:00

Preface: Several years I was told in confidence that the name Traders Point actually referred to an Indian settlement located west of Traders Point where Crown Point Road terminates and becomes private property. I was asked not to publish the information because the property was privately owned and the owners might not appreciate the publicity. Now the property owners, Bob and Lou Rice of 8751 Crown Point Road, have formally created a conservation easement to protect their property and their story is published in the current issue of Conserving Indiana, the publication of the Central Indiana Land Trust. This is a significant event and you will enjoy reading about the Rices and their property. The map shows the property's proximity to Traders Point, Indiana.
http://www.conservingindiana.org/docs/Fall_Winter_2009.pdf

Bob and Lou Rice are not your
typical Marion County residents.
First of all, they own 56
acres of woods and prairie in this
highly-populated county. Secondly,
they are true nature lovers
who, rather than keeping an
option for development of their
land on the table, decided to
permanently protect it through a
conservation easement with the
Central Indiana Land Trust. This
is only the Land Trust’s second
permanently protected property
in Marion County and the first
since the Gene B. Glick Nature
Preserve was donated in 1992.
Cliff, Heather, and I visited the
Rice Property, located near Eagle
Creek Park on the Northwest
side of Indianapolis, in September.
The Rice’s love of the land
and all things living was evident
from the moment we drove onto
their land and knocked on their
door. The driveway, which is the
“gate on the left” in a
small cluster of driveways,
gives the land
its name “Left Gate
Farm Nature Sanctuary.”
Its winding path
leads you back to the
Rice Home. Bob and
Lou greeted us with
hugs, while their five
dogs greeted us with
plentiful kisses.
Bob and Lou designated
their land,
which is bisected by
a tributary to Eagle
Creek, as a nature
sanctuary long before
the Central Indiana
Land Trust became involved.
The Land Trust is merely a
means to an end – ensuring that
their family land protected forever.
Bob walks his land, which
has a well-maintained loop trail,
everyday. Upon his return, Lou
always asks him if he saw anything
new. “He says yes every
single time,” she said. On the
day of our walk in September,
it was green dragon (Arisaema
dracontium) in fruit at a new
location.
Left Gate Farm
is a special place,
not only because
it exists in Marion
County when such
a small amount
of privately-held
natural land is
left, but because
it is teeming with
native Indiana
plant species, from
wildflowers to ferns to trees.
Bob handed me two booklets
during our visit. One was “The
Wildflowers of Left Gate Farm,”
in which he has recorded 283
species since 1937! Some have
disappeared due to natural
causes, and some due to greedy
human intruders, but most are
still there. Dutchman’s breeches,
hepatica, rue anemone, trillium,
violets, shooting stars, bluebells
and many others carpet the
forest floor in April, while the
fall offers Short’s aster, bluestemmed
goldenrod and nodding
ladies tresses.
This wildflower lover will be
back in the spring, if not sooner,
I promised Bob and Lou.
The Rice’s conservation easement
does not automatically create an
open invitation for Land Trust
staff or members to visit their
land. This is one of the benefits
of a conservation easement. The
landowner can continue to live
on the land which is still private
property; they must simply agree
to never develop it, and allow us
to monitor it on an annual basis.
However, the Rices are nature
Fifty-six Acres Protected in Marion County!
Bob Rice led the Land Trust staff on a tour of the
Rice property, now protected in perpetuity.
Short’s aster is one of the wildflowers seen in the fall
in the woods of Left Gate Farm Nature Sanctuary.
Photo by Cliff Chapman
Photo by Cliff Chapman
By Maria Steiner,
Community Relations Director
4
lovers, so they have offered the
use of their land for future educational
field trips to Land Trust
members and our kids club.
And an educational resource it
is, with its well-maintained trail,
picturesque terrain, and cultural,
historical, and ecological
features. In fact, school groups
have been coming here as a field
trip destination for years. Nowadays,
they told us, it is harder
to get school groups out, due to
smaller field trip budgets and
tightly-controlled curriculum.
Left Gate Farm has been in the
Rice Family since 1935. At first
it was a weekend getaway. The
family would venture from their
home in what is now Meridian-
Kessler to this property for
picnics. They decided to build
a home here and use it as their
summer vacation spot instead of
Michigan, where they had previously
ventured. This allowed
their father to join them on the
weekends, rather than taking
two full days to drive to Michigan
in the pre-interstate system era.
The home was built in 1937 and
1938 from a single Idaho white
pine tree that was cut in 1919.
The home was designed by the
same architect that designed
the Abe Martin Lodge in Brown
County State Park, Richard
Bishop. Bob and Lou became
the first full-time residents of the
home in 1984, after adding on to
create space for their five children.
The Rice’s five children are
now grown and living scattered
around the Indianapolis area.
Perhaps most interesting about
this property is its Native American
history, in which Bob and
Lou are well-versed. In 1818,
the Treaty of St. Mary’s (Ohio)
forced the Delaware (Lenape)
Indian tribe to move west. As
they followed the buffalo trails
westward, their chief fell ill,
which forced them to stop and
camp at what is now the Rice
property. They ended up camping
atop this ridge for almost a
year before the chief died. Bob
and Lou can point out where
he was buried, because it was
marked by a large arrowhead
pointing west, the direction his
followers subsequently went.
The arrowhead mysteriously
disappeared some time ago. The
Native American component of
their property is a big part of
the educational information that
they have shared with schoolchildren
over the years.
Also of note are the flowing
wells on this property, which
attracted the first settlers in this
area. Those first settlers traded
with the Native Americans, thus
giving the area the name “Traders
Point.” This little
town, which no longer
exists, was comprised
of a grocery store, two
gas stations, eighteen
homes, and three
churches. What many
folks now call Traders
Point is actually slightly
off from the original
town of Traders Point.
The adjacent Scott Starling
Nature Sanctuary,
a portion of Eagle Creek Park
managed as a tall grass prairie,
was the inspiration for the Rices’
installation of a 10-acre prairie.
The prairie plants have been
carefully documented over the
years, just as the wildflowers in
the forest have been. Savannah
and field sparrows, along with
monarch and black swallowtail
butterflies can be found in the
prairie, as well as purple coneflower,
rattlesnake master, big
bluestem, and dozens of other
grassland species.
We are thrilled that the Rices
have chosen to permanently
protect and share their sanctuary
for native plants and animals
in the city of Indianapolis. We
also want to thank YOU, our
members, for helping us protect
natural areas for plants, animals
and people throughout central
Indiana.
Be sure to watch the newsletter or
sign up with your email address to
receive special invitations to visit
this and other natural areas in
Central Indiana.
Photo

Traders Point - A Branding Proposal

2009-10-31T09:37:00.005-04:00

(Almost made it to Pecha Kucha Nov. 12, 2009 event - www.pkindy.org)

In 2009 an 1800 acre section of Pike Township known as Traders Point/Eagle Creek was designated a Rural Historic District by the National Parks Service. The award gives Indianapolis the distinction of having the largest Rural Historic District in a metropolitan area in the nation.
The Rural Historic District runs alongside Eagle Creek and is adjacent to one of the largest municipal parks in the country. The district is nestled within a concrete triangle of interstate highways. The entire triangle is often referred to by long-time residents as Traders Point. This “rural place in the city” is accessible, distinctive, and now, nationally recognized.
Yet, there is no signage at ground level to inform residents and travelers of the area’s significance. This is a request for signage to be designed and placed in coordination with the area residents who funded the award. The $10,000 gift is to be devoted to the creation, installation and maintenance of signs to be located throughout the triangle. Nationally known artist and area resident Nancy Noel has agreed to donate an artistic design for the signs, insuring a distinctive visual branding for the area.
Traders Point blends rural and suburban living just 15 minutes from the Mile Square. It has two family-operated dairies, including the Traders Point organic dairy which brings a national eco-tourism following. It also is known to competitive triathletes; challenged by the district’s terrain. The area boasts the historic Lafayette Road toll house, as well as a cemetery with the grave of a Revolutionary War Veteran, and a covered bridge original to the area.
The township’s first property owner, William Conner of Conner Prairie fame, also chaired the site committee that moved the state capital to Indianapolis. His only Marion County purchase, in 1823, was 80 federal acres where an Indian trail crossed Eagle Creek. A few years later, this path became the first road through the township, Lafayette Road. Conner’s parcel may have been a spot where trade was taking place between the Indians and the white settler. Nearly 150 years ago a few acres within the 80 acres were platted as a village named Traders Point. In the 1920s the area attracted urban motorists whose vehicles could be serviced in Traders Point by two separate service stations. Today motorists still enjoy its scenic, pastoral two lane roads named for area farmers. Important figures of their day lived here. Residents included J.K. Lilly, Jr., Industrialist Herman Krannert, William Fortune and artist Cassilly Adams. In 1963 the Traders Point hamlet surrendered to the creation of a public reservoir.
Today the name Traders Point, and the Eagle Creek Valley within it, have been recognized by the National Park Service. It is fitting that a brand identity campaign be embraced by thought leaders within the city. Artistically designed, professionally constructed and well-placed signs will call attention to one of the city’s largest geographical areas of national distinction.

http://www.in.gov/dnr/historic/files/hp-TradersPointEagleCreek.pdf

KIB Wendy Ford planting day October 24 Traders Point Salt Barn

2009-10-25T19:57:00.003-04:00

Abusive Tree Trimming UPDATE

2009-10-06T15:35:00.001-04:00

Greetings to all:
Here's an update on where we are in the effort to stop abusive tree trimming by electric utilities:

Attached below are several items of interest connected to the cause, for your information. Please take the time to review them

1 -- IURC hearings continue, 5 down, 1 to go
2 -- IPL requests all communications (from Charlie) connected with the petition/hearings
3 -- Indiana Tree Alliance formed as a lobbying/organizing entity.
4 -- Financial support for related expenses/legal fees needed.
5 -- Deadline for letters to the Commission has been extended through October

1 A huge thank you to all of you who have supported this effort with letters, testimony and interest. The Muncie hearing had about 21 citizens appear and testify, with at least
four times that number attending to listen. A recent and devastating cutting no doubt helped with motivation and brought out people for their hearing.. State Senator Sue Errington
solicited her constituents to appear, and appeared herself to support the process.

The Indy hearing had about 26 testify, which, again, was about a fourth of the folks listening. Senator Mike Delph, Senator Jean Breaux, and Representative Cherish Pryor all attended
and spoke to the Commission in support of their constituents and hopes for a positive outcome to the investigation. Notable by his absence was Sen. Merritt, the utilities committee
chairman, whose "6 Point plan" was part of the genesis of the investigation.

Testimony lasted more than five hours. It was informed, heartfelt, compelling and, at times, emotional. Several people, including adult men, had to stop to compose themselves
recalling the devastation they witnessed on their own property, or that of others. The Commissioners were attentive throughout, and Sen Delph stayed through all of it, demonstrating
strong support for a proper outcome to what he sees as a property rights abuse.

Unfortunately, the hearing in Seymour gathered testimony from only three people. This certainly shows that, unless there is someone in the area who is quite motivated, the minimal
notification process followed by the IURC does not reach many people.

For the Merrillville and Ft. Wayne hearings, we were able to get some local press coverage prior to the events - a big Thank You to Susan Blair's daughter Drew for TV coverage in
Ft. Wayne. The resulting turnouts were smaller than Indy or Muncie, but the Commissioners heard testimony from customers of other utilities, telling the same kinds of stories that
were told here.

2 IPL has requested, through the discovery process, all communication between Charlie (and by proxy me) and all those who signed the original petition, or who have testified.
They must hope to show that we were telling people what to say. We didn't. This tells me that we are getting somewhere! Unfortunately, it's a pain in the...

3 Several of us who have been engaged in this cause have joined to form the Indiana Tree Alliance. At present we are operating as a steering committee, with exploring how
to be the most effective as our first objective.

Our efforts will not stop with the conclusion of the investigation. We will continue to work for legislative changes necessary for achieving our goals.
Anyone interested in joining in and helping out should let us know.

4 Almost all the expenses of conducting this effort have come from one individual, Charlie Goodman himself, who cannot continue to be the bank. Since the Senate Utility Committee
meeting last Oct. 9th, he has paid for all typing, copying, materials, enlarging, and postage, etc, out of his own pocket. Additionally, we are now beginning to have some legal expenses.
When you consider how many legislators there are, and how much material he has sent, "it can add up".

Remember that he is the single individual who has made the contacts to get this issue statewide attention. Without him, we would be a collection of angry neighborhoods, getting nowhere.

We have had a generous individual offer to match the funds that we can raise by soliciting our mailing list, so your contribution will matter by double.

If you would like to support this effort, please send checks made out to: Indiana Tree Alliance - 8561 Moore rd. Indianapolis Ind. - 46278 --
I will keep a record of all contributions, should we have excess funds in the future, they will be returned in proportion.

5 The number of letters received by the OUCC seems to have motivated the IURC to leave open the allowable time for letters to be mailed in.

If you would still like to be heard, please continue to write, fax or email letters to the OUCC

Consumers may also submit written comments for the case’s record to the OUCC by mail, fax or the Internet:
Please send a copy of your letter to Charlie Goodman or Jerry Baker at the addresses above.
Mail: Consumer Services Staff; Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor
115 W. Washington St., Suite 1500 South
Indianapolis, IN 46204
Fax: (317) 232-5923
E-mail: uccinfo@oucc.IN.gov
OUCC Website: www.IN.gov/OUCC
Written comments should include the consumer’s name, mailing address, and a reference to IURC Cause No. 43663.
Additional information on this case, including a link to the OUCC’s testimony, is available at
www.in.gov/oucc/2555.htm.

Thank you all for your support --
Jerry Baker
Charlie Goodman-- 356-2499

Zionsville Times Sentinel story on Traders Point

2009-10-01T21:11:00.001-04:00

Land receives historic designation

By Nick McLain/Times Sentinel writer

The pastoral countryside known as Traders Point is not only beautiful, but historic.

Two areas, totaling 2,600 acres, were recently named to the National Register of Historic Places.

The northern section, known as the Traders Point Hunt Rural Historic District, roughly encompasses the area bounded by Ind. 334, I-865, Old Hunt Club Road and County Road 850 East. It falls almost entirely in Eagle Township.

The southern zone, known as Traders Point Eagle Creek Rural Historic District, lies mostly in Marion County (Pike Township) and is bounded by I-865, I-465 and Lafayette Road.

The two districts double the amount of rural historic districts in the state, which now number four.

Cindy Lamberjack, a resident of the district in the Zionsville area, helped lead the charge to have the area designated as historic.

“We want to let people know there are a lot of real special rural characteristics to this area,” Lamberjack said.

She said that they wanted to form just one rural district, but the “powers that be” told them that it would have to be two, as it was divided by I-865.

“We want everyone to think of it as one district,” Lamberjack said. “We’re referring to both as the Traders Point Rural Historic District.”

The Traders Point area is generally described as being located within the “triangle of concrete” of I-865, I-465 and I-65, according to Ross Reller, who lives in the area and is its unofficial historian.

The name Traders Point traces back to its history, when it was a spot of trading between Miami Indians and white settlers in the early 19th century, Reller said.

Lamberjack was assisted in her efforts by Fritz Kunz, owner of Traders Point Creamery. The creamery is located within the district.

“It’s a little bit like having a nature preserve in your backyard in getting this special designation that not every area can get,” Kunz said. “It adds a bit of prestige to the area.”

The process of becoming a historic district was a difficult one and took almost five years to see through to completion. Lamberjack and Kunz were assisted in their efforts by Camille Fife, a consultant with The Westerly Group of Madison, as well as the Historic Landmarks Foundation of Indiana, a private non-profit that is the state’s largest preservation group.

Mark Dollase, vice president of preservation services for Historic Landmarks, said the designation will provide some protections for the area.

“In the cases where state or federal funds are involved, anyone wishing to do something in the area must go through a Section 106 review process,” Dollase said.

In the case of a Section 106 review, they must take their proposed plans to the Indiana Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology for their review.

Dollase mentioned a recent example where Section 106 review will be used for the Traders Point area. The Indiana Department of Transportation has been discussing the possibility of putting closed circuit television towers on I-865 near the Ford Road overpass, the Cooper Road overpass and one in the intersection of I-65 and I-865.

Because it is a state project and state funds are involved, INDOT must go to the DHPA. The DHPA will review the plans and decide if other alternatives exist that would be less of an impact.

“There are some neighbors who are not particularly happy about these very large towers coming up that would loom over their homes,” Dollase said.

According to Paul Diebold, team leader for survey and registration with the DHPA, the designation provides other benefits to property owners within it; namely, potential tax credits of up to 20 percent of the cost to those who want to do rehabilitation work on their historic homes, barns, etc. Any rehabilitation must retain the historic aspects of the property.

Kunz said preservation grants could also be available for some properties.

“That’s the other neat thing about this — it allows people to fix up rather than tear down, and it encourages that,” Kunz said. “Rehabbing is twice as expensive as new construction. You might have an old barn on your farm, and you couldn’t afford to fix it up, but now you can because the funds are available. It’s a huge benefit.”

Kunz added that in many other historic districts around the country, property values went up as a result of the designation.

The DHPA had to approve the rural district request at the state level, and Diebold said the area clearly qualifies as historic.

“You have a really diverse mix of architecture, from rare 19th century barns to early 20th century rural estates,” Diebold said. “It, to us, has design qualities that are pretty well-qualified and something you don’t see much of anymore.”

The costs for making the area a rural historic district were paid mostly through fundraising from the Oktoberfest event at Traders Point Creamery. Creamery Marketing Director Gail Alden said the event raised more than $20,000 in the last two years.

The third annual Oktoberfest fundraiser will be from noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 18. There will be live music, hayrides, bonfires, cow milking, pumpkin patches and traditional German food, beer and wine. Advance tickets are $8 and tickets at the gate will be $10. Children younger than 10 years of age are free. Visit www.traderspointcreamery.com for more information,.

The money from that event, Lamberjack said, will go toward the purchases of signs to put around the district letting people know of its new status as a historic place.

Reller publishes updates on Traders Point news at www.historictraderspoint.org.

Eagle Creek's new bird center opens Wednesday

2009-10-01T11:56:00.001-04:00

September 29, 2009 by Gretchen Becker | Star staff
AA +1 vote
1 comment ShareThis
Bird lovers can flock to the new Eagle Creek Park Ornithology Center.

Photos
Photo 1 of 1

A goldfinch eats from a feeder at Eagle Creek Park's new Ornithology Center.(CHARLIE NYE)
Transformation has been underway for two years for the center, located in the former nature center.

The park will hold a grand opening and ribbon cutting at 10 a.m. Wednesday.

“This is a unique project in many ways that has attracted so much enthusiasm,” said Michelle Cloud, Eagle Creek Park Foundation president and Northwestside resident.

Indy Parks naturalist Kevin Carlsen has spent two years creating the bird watching and information center with the help of volunteers. They have transformed the former nature center into a paradise for bird watchers and those interested in learning about them.

“We hope to increase our school education program,” Carlsen said. “They can come learn about birds here and reptiles and amphibians at the Earth Discovery Center.”

The center features rooms where visitors can push buttons and use displays and topographical maps to learn about birds in the park. The exhibit hall will feature 70 taxidermied birds in their habitats including grasslands, wetlands, ponds and forest.

Guests can also sit in the peaceful bird sanctuary and listen to the sounds of nature piped through speakers into the building from microphones outside.

Outside the exhibit hall guests can watch birds feed and bathe in a pond, and kids can sit and create crafts.

Throughout the year Eagle Creek Park is home to 260 of 400 bird species seen in Indiana, Carlsen said. The ornithology center should help draw national and internationally attention to the park.

Random shots from a neighborhood walk in Traders Point area today (click to enlarge)

2009-09-26T12:59:00.004-04:00

Mr. and Mrs. Bill Cappel of Traders Point Coop on Lafayette Road.

Lafayette Road Bridge Photos Today (click to enlarge)

2009-09-26T12:47:00.004-04:00

OCTOBERFEST Sunday, October 18, 2009, noon-5 @ Creamery

2009-09-24T11:47:00.000-04:00

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

Greater Historic Traders Point, a 501(c)(3) green space preservation group, is once again hosting the 3rd Annual Oktoberfest on the Farm. This event was started in 2007 to raise funds for the completion of two Rural Historic Districts and for future awareness of our unique, rural area.

The GREAT news is that our nominations to the National Register are now fully approved and the Traders Point Rural Historic districts are now on the National Register. Our goal for this year’s Oktoberfest is to raise money to complete signage to designate and highlight our districts. This year’s Oktoberfest will be held on Sunday, October 18, 2009, from noon until 5:00 pm. We have the Polka Boys Band back, more food and drink, and plenty of fun!

My request to you is this….we need volunteers to fill slots from 11:00AM until 6:30pm. Unfortunately, we cannot continue to host this event without volunteer/neighbor participation. Many of you have volunteered in the past, both financially and physically, and we thank you so very much! This project benefits us all and is our only fundraiser of the year. Now is the time to give back to our area by simply agreeing to staff at least one, 3 hour shift that day. Plus, it will be great fun!

Please contact Cindy Lamberjack at 250-6504 or email to c_lamberjack001@comcast.net to set up your volunteer time. If you are unable to volunteer, please consider donating to the Traders Point Rural Historic Districts. Checks may be made payable to Greater Historic Traders Point and may be sent to:
Greater Historic Traders Point
7103 W. 96th St.
Zionsville, IN 46077

Thank you again and we hope to see you soon!

Cindy Lamberjack

TPAN to present at Normandy Farms Meeting

2009-09-24T11:45:00.002-04:00

Traders Point Association of Neighborhoods (TPAN) will be presenting at the Normandy Farms Annual Meeting: Nov 5 from 7 - 9 pm - Pike Library on Zionsville Road - Community room.

TPAN was invited to the meeting to discuss our group (which includes Normandy Farms). My talk will be about 20 minutes and will briefly highlight our group's history, its focus, what we have accomplished, and opportunities for involvement.

Zionsville Time Sentinel to feature Traders Point in Sept. 30 issue

2009-09-24T11:41:00.000-04:00

Rural historic districts formed in area

The pastoral countryside known as Traders Point has many adjectives attached to it: rustic, beautiful and charming, to name a few. Now it can include one more: historic.

Two areas, totaling 2,600 acres in all, were recently named to the National Register of Historic Places.

We'll speak with Cindy Lamperjack, a resident who helped lead the charge to getting the designation, as well as Fritz Kunz, owner of Traders Point Creamery.

For more, read the Sept. 30 edition of the Times Sentinel.

Lafayette Road bridge update photos

2009-09-12T10:46:00.003-04:00

WISH TV COVERAGE OF TREE TRIMMING & interview with neighbor Jerry Baker

2009-09-03T08:27:00.002-04:00

Indy residents fed up
with tree hacking
Utility companies trim trees for
safety reasons

Updated: Wednesday, 02 Sep 2009, 11:10 PM EDT
Published : Wednesday, 02 Sep 2009, 7:00 PM EDT

Leslie Olsen
Edited by Hyacinth Williams
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - It’s enough to make any homeowner with a yard full of trees shudder: news that a utility company is coming to trim.

Utility companies do that to keep branches away from their lines, but some property owners say they are going too far.

24-Hour News 8 spoke to a property owner who plans to speak at the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission hearing Wednesday night.

Jerry Baker and his wife live in the Traders Point area and their property is filled with old, beautiful trees.

“To be able to have a place to live, in this kind of a home, surrounded by all these trees, is just a really rare privilege,” said Baker.

Baker said earlier this decade, utility tree trimmers started getting more aggressive – and left eyesores behind.

“They take trees, trim and take trees from private property where they have declared the right to do that. But in our mind legally, constitutionally, they don’t really have that right. And that’s one of the big things that we’re contesting right now,” said Baker.

Enough homeowners agreed that utilities are not taking the care they should be in cutting trees and limbs away from power lines – that the IURC began investi

Traders Point residents speak at public hearing

2009-09-03T07:46:00.001-04:00

September 3, 2009

Taking tree trimming too far?

Frustration is clear as landowners urge limiting the utilities' freedom to cut trees

By Diana Penner
diana.penner@indystar.com

For more than three decades, Henry Junkersfeld had no problems with utility tree trimming at his Northwestside home.

That changed in the summer of 2005, he said, when an Indianapolis Power & Light Co. contractor cut down 200 feet of trees along his property line in the 8100 block of Fishback Road. When he informed an IPL supervisor he planned to file a complaint, he was told, "If I did that, he (the supervisor) would clear-cut the rest of it."

Junkersfeld was among about 100 people who attended a public hearing Wednesday on utility company tree-trimming practices. The hearing at the Pike Performing Arts Center was the second of six that the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission has scheduled statewide on the issue.

Several speakers, like Junkersfeld, told tales of drastic tree cutting and rude encounters with those working for IPL. The testimony, in what's called an "investigation" by the IURC, is run much like a trial, with witnesses sworn in and no questions answered by the commission. The IURC will make no decision until after all hearings have been held.

One speaker urged the commissioners not to drastically amend utility companies' tree-trimming rights.

Mike Gahimer, energy manager of Duke Realty Co., said uninterrupted electrical service is paramount for business and industry. When there is a close call, he said, the decision should go on the side of maintaining energy flow.

"I ask the commission not to throw the baby out with the bath water," he said.

More than 20 people signed up to speak, but it was not clear whether all would take a turn. Charles Goodman, an Eastside resident whose summer 2005 dispute with IPL led to the IURC case, attended the hearing but was not permitted to speak.

He could not agree with IPL on compensation to replace a damaged tree, so Goodman explored a civil lawsuit and ended up initiating the case now being heard by the IURC.

"I opened a can of worms," Goodman said. "They can go on private property to remove trees without consent or compensation."

The Indiana Tree Alliance, a new organization formed by homeowners who have had unsatisfactory dealings with utilities over trees, is among the passionate advocates of reining in the power of utilities.

The alliance supports establishing statewide rules for utilities, which now determine tree-trimming policies independently, and supports the long-term goal of moving utility lines underground.

IPL spokeswoman Crystal Livers-Powers said at the hearing that she couldn't comment on specific cases raised by residents.

However, she said IPL understands the emotion that can be triggered when trees are removed or trimmed and strives to contact residents in their electric bills months before trimming and in other notices posted near the date.

"Because safety and reliability are so important (requiring tree removal near power lines), we understand that sometimes people are going to be angry."

Pat Easterday, who lives in the 7900 block of Lafayette Road, told the commission that in September 2005 she tried to stop a crew from cutting her trees but that an off-duty Indianapolis police officer working security for IPL handcuffed her. She was detained in the squad car for about an hour.

"Of course, all this time they're cutting my trees. They didn't stop," Easterday said.

"They came through and cut everything. I don't think it's fair. And I don't think they care."

Welcome to the commercialization of Eagle Creek Park

2009-09-02T16:50:00.001-04:00

The City of Indianapolis is seeking innovative ideas to generate increased value,
from the City-owned Eagle Creek Park, through partnerships including but not
limited to development, reuse, banquet, sporting, and concert/venue events.
The City intends to take full advantage of all viable opportunities to generate
revenue or offset current operating and capital expenses within the context of
the fundamental mission of Indy Parks.
The following is a description of the assets that will be available for utilization at
the Eagle Creek Park.A. Eagle’s Crest
B. The Hide-A-Way
C. Lilly Lake
D. The Marina
E. The Beach
F. Eagle Creek Bait Shop
G. Octagon Building and Shelter
H. Rick’s Boatyard Café

Should Traders Point Association of Neighborhoods be concerned?

Traders Point residents get press in today's Star

2009-09-02T07:18:00.000-04:00

September 2, 2009

Those teed off about tree-cutting get a say

At state hearing, some to urge statewide rules for utilities to follow

By Diana Penner
diana.penner@indystar.com

Property owners angry about tree-trimming practices of utility companies will have a chance to suggest changes to regulators at a hearing today.

And while those advocates will be polite and professional, they also will be passionate.

The recently formed Indiana Tree Alliance, a coalition of concerned property owners, plans to be there. In a recent release, the group used terms such as "abusive vegetation management practices" and "butchering of trees'' to make its points.

The issues are complex and long-standing, but at the core, they want consistent rules applied statewide, with recognition of the rights of private property owners.

The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission is holding six hearings statewide to collect public comment on the issue. Tonight's hearing is the second of the series and the only one in Indianapolis. The hearings are being conducted in the service areas of six power companies and end in October in Evansville.

The commission has not determined what changes might be made and wants to hear concerns and suggestions from residents, said Danielle Dravet, spokeswoman for the IURC. After the public hearings are complete and written ideas have been received, the commission will go over them and decide on a next step, she said.

The Tree Alliance members don't dispute that trees should be maintained so they don't interfere with utilities, said Jerry Baker, a resident of the Trader's Point area on the Northwestside and a member of the alliance. But many homeowners think utility companies run roughshod over their rights and mangle trees in the process, he said.

"We want to bring to the commission's attention certain methods and behaviors . . . relative to trimming trees that we think are out of line."

Now, power companies establish their own rules. The alliance wants to see consistent, statewide rules that would limit utility companies' power to cut trees and would compensate property owners if trees must be sacrificed, Baker said.

Jacque Griffin, also a Trader's Point-area resident, said her first encounter with Indianapolis Power & Light came in 2002 or 2003, about six months after she moved into a new home. She found a "door-hanger" flier alerting her that the utility would be trimming trees in her neighborhood, with a number to call with questions.

She said she called and was told someone would get back to her to consult about how much would have to be cut. She was even willing to hire a tree company to meet the utility's requirements while taking into account the health of the trees. Griffin said she was told not to worry because crews wouldn't be in her area for several weeks.

But a few days later, she said, she came home and found several trees hacked and piles of lumber in her yard.

That's what she wants to avoid in the future, she said.

"We all like our electricity,'' she said, endorsing appropriate tree management. "But it does not have to be done in the manner that it's done."

Additional Facts
Meeting tonight
An information session about tree-trimming practices and guidelines for testifying will begin at 5:30 p.m. in the Pike Performing Arts Center, 6701 Zionsville Road.

Formal comments will begin at 6 p.m. No end time has been set.

People who cannot be at the meeting still may register comments. Cite IURC case No. 43663 and send comments to Office of the Utility Consumer Counselor, 115 W. Washington St., Suite 1500 South, Indianapolis, IN 46204-3420; fax them to (317) 232-5923; or send them by e-mail to uccinfo@oucc.in.gov

For background on the case, go to www.in.gov/oucc and click on "Electric Utility Tree Trimming Investigation."

To contact the Indiana Tree Alliance, send an e-mail to Jerry Baker at cjbaker47@ comcast.net; Steve Jones at sast jones@comcast.net; or call Charles Goodman at (317) 356-2499. Or go to www.treesvspowerlines.com for more information.

UPDATE PUBLIC HEARING: SEPT 2 - 6:00 PM.

2009-08-31T16:39:00.000-04:00

Dear Traders Point Neighbors:

The following is an updated announcement concerning the IURC field hearing to be held this coming Wednesday, September 2, at Pike High School. We've learned that the exact location will be the Pike Performing Arts Center. It is imperative that we have a good turnout from Traders Point for this hearing. Regardless of your views on this issue, TPAN encourages you to attend, and if at all possible, please bring spouse, kids, and neighbors! This is our opportunity to make a real difference on this issue. Your neighbor, Jerry Baker, and others, have worked tirelessly for over two years to bring the fight to this historic point. The utilities are hoping that you fail to show, or leave it to your neighbor to show. Let's turn out and let them know that responsible tree trimming, that allows for safe and reliable electric power, can be achieved while still respecting property owners' rights and without destroying the environmental health and scenic beauty of our community, as well as the rest of central Indiana.
Thanks,
Steve Jones, TPAN President

Public Input Sought on Electric Utility Tree-Trimming Abuses

This is Traders Point residents' opportunity to be heard on this very important issue!

The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission is currently investigating alleged electric utility abuses in tree-trimming practices. A series of 6 public field hearings will be held throughout the state to accept public comments for the evidentiary record in this investigation. Traders Point residents are urged to particpate in the Central Indiana hearing to be held at Pike High School on Wednesday, September 2, 2009.

Arrive by 5:30 p.m. to register to testify -- public hearing begins at 6:00 p.m., Pike High School - Performing arts Center,
5401 W. 71st St., Indianapolis, Indiana

Below is a summary of the key issues as provided by the Indiana Tree Alliance:

IURC hearings

Property owners across central Indiana have organized to form the Indiana Tree Alliance for the purpose of opposing abusive vegetation management practices by Indianapolis Power & Light (IPL), Indiana-Michigan Power, and certain other utilities around the state, particularly practices pertaining to tree trimming and removal in the vicinity of electric-power utility lines.

Participants in the Indiana Tree Alliance believe that the utilities have obscured the real issues of contention by claiming, incorrectly, that their current practices are mandated by federal regulation, and that these practices represent their only means of assuring safe and reliable electric power. The Alliance recognizes that safe and reliable electric power is a priority, but believes this can be achieved through a better process that also respects property rights and holds the utilities accountable for their actions.

Currently the utilities interpret their charge to provide safe and reliable electric power as justification for overly aggressive trimming, which is designed to minimize costs. They also view it as justification for ignoring Constitutionally-granted property rights. The results are often manifested in the unhealthy and unsightly butchering of trees, the unwarranted removal of trees, and the taking of rights to private property without the owner’s consent.

In IPL’s case, utility Tariff E-16, 15, approved by the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC), but never reviewed by the Indiana State Attorney General, is used as a legal basis for these actions. The utilities also act as if they have no financial obligation to provide just compensation to owners when trees and other fixtures are damaged or taken on private property. In addition, the utilities incorrectly point to non-applicable federal regulations to justify this overly aggressive trimming. Indiana has allowed the utilities to increase voltage on existing lines, without a review process, even when these increases require additional wire-zone clearance. This practice effectively results in a taking of adjoining private property. Currently, a property owner’s only recourse is to take the utilities to court—a difficult task given the utilities’ deep pockets.

In addition to the Constitutional issues, the Alliance believes that the utilities’ current practices are unreasonable by any definition. The Alliance, therefore, encourages the IURC to support the following reforms to utility vegetation management in Indiana:

• Repeal of Tariff E-16, 15 and public recognition by the utilities that they have no right to trim or remove trees on private property without the owner’s consent, and that just compensation is required when a taking is necessary.
• The IURC should establish an office for arbitrating disputes when the property owner denies permission but the utility deems that trimming or removal is necessary. This office should also be able to hold the utilities accountable to property owners for damages, when appropriate.
• Utilities should be required to petition the IURC to increase voltage on existing lines, and if granted, the utility should be required to purchase the necessary easement from the adjoining property owners, or provide some other form of just compensation.
• The State of Indiana should adopt a statewide vegetation management standard for all electric-power utilities.”

Property owners and citizens concerned about reasonable measures to manage vegetation— and protecting rights to reasonable notice and fair compensation when utilities take their property — are encouraged to make their voice heard. Please join us a public hearing on abusive tree-trimming practices in central Indiana.

Contact: Jerry Baker mailto:cjbaker47@comcast.net
Charles Goodman 317.356.2499
Steve Jones Mail to:sastjones@Comcast.net

* * *

Press Conference - Friday Aug. 28 - Tree Alliance

2009-08-26T12:45:00.000-04:00

We are pleased to invite you to a press conference to announce the formation of the Indiana Tree Alliance,

and to announce the schedule of IURC Field Hearings -- planned for six cities throughout Indiana -- the current phase of the IURC Investigation into Tree Trimming Practices.

Charles Goodman will hold the meeting at -- 12 PM -- Friday, August 28th. -- 2nd. Floor Rotunda of the Indiana Statehouse

We hope you will have 10 - 15 minutes to show your interest and support for this important cause.

Thank You and hopefully we will see you there.

Jerry Baker cjbaker47@comcast.net

Charles Goodman 356-2499

Steve Jones SLjones@IU.edu

Abusive Tree Trimming to be Discussed in Public Forums

2009-08-25T11:15:00.003-04:00

Traders Point resident Jerry Baker continues to be a significant voice in fighting for fairness and justice on abusive trimming of privately owned trees. Please lend your support to this important issue by attending one of these upcoming meetings. For the uninitiated, abusive tree trimming is not currently addressed in case law. This case has the potential to have historical importance in changing how utilities deal with the public when on their private property. RR.

The following is an announcement of the public hearing phase of the ongoing Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) investigation into electric utilities' tree trimming practices.
Please distribute this information to everyone you know and encourage attendance at the hearings.
The IURC and the utilities need to understand that it's not just "a few people" who are angry about abusive tree trimming and property rights violations.

Thanks,
Jerry Baker cjbaker47@comcast.net
Charlie Goodman 317-356-2499

Public input sought in Electric Utility Tree Trimming Investigation

Field hearings scheduled statewide

A series of IURC public field hearings will be held throughout the state to accept sworn consumer comments for the evidentiary record in this investigation. The first two hearings are scheduled in Muncie and Indianapolis:

Monday, August 31, 2009:
OUCC* information meeting at 5:30 p.m., IURC public field hearing at 6:00 p.m.
Muncie Central High School
801 N. Walnut St.
Muncie, Indiana

Wednesday, September 2, 2009:
OUCC* information meeting at 5:30 p.m., IURC public field hearing at 6:00 p.m.
Pike High School
5401 W. 71st St.
Indianapolis, Indiana

Concerning the hearing at Pike High School:
5:30 PM register to testify / 6:00 PM Testimony begins --
Pike High School --- 5401 W 71st St
Please attend this meeting -- even if you do not plan to testify IPL and The IURC must understand that it is not only a few people that care about this matter!

*The Office of the Utility Consumer Councilor (OUCC) is an office that serves as the counsel of the public in matters concerning the IURC and utilities.

Additional IURC field hearings in this investigation are tentatively scheduled for the following dates, with times and
specific locations to be determined:

 Tuesday, September 8, 2009 – Seymour
 Wednesday, September 23 – Merrillville
 Tuesday, September 29 – Fort Wayne
 Wednesday, October 7 – Evansville

This schedule will be updated on the OUCC’s Website at www.in.gov/oucc/2555.htm.

Consumers may also submit written comments for the case’s record to the OUCC by mail, fax or the Internet:

 Mail: Consumer Services Staff; Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor
115 W. Washington St., Suite 1500 South; Indianapolis, IN 46204
 Fax: (317) 232-5923
 E-mail: uccinfo@oucc.IN.gov
 OUCC Website: www.IN.gov/OUCC

Written comments should include the consumer’s name, mailing address, and a reference to IURC Cause No. 43663.
Additional information on this case, including a link to the OUCC’s testimony, is available at
www.in.gov/oucc/2555.htm.

For More Information:

Learn more about this investigation at --- www.treesvspowerlines.com ---

Contact Jerry Baker cjbaker47@comcast.net
or
Charlie Goodman 356-2499