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1. What is an ordinance?

An ordinance is defined as a law set forth by a governmental authority, specifically, a municipal regulation. Ordinances are enacted by a city government through its Common Council.

2. What is the difference between a resolution and an ordinance?

An ordinance is a formal action that is enforceable by law. A resolution is not necessarily a law. It is expressing the will or opinion of Common Council. If already a law, it can be enforced by a resolution.

3. What is the Noise Ordinance for the City of Anderson?

Lawn mowers, garden tractors and similar home power tools when properly muffled can be used between the hours of 7:00 A.M. and 9:00 P.M.

Loud and Unnecessary Noise Prohibited: it shall be a violation of this ordinance for a person to make any loud, raucous, improper, unreasonable, offensive or unusual noise, disorder or tumult, which disturbs, injures or endangers the comfort, repose, health, peace or safety or others within the city, or to permit such noise, disorder, or tumult to be made in or about his/her house or premises, and the same is hereby declared to be a public nuisance.

For more details, please see Ordinance 10-96

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1. I want to start a new business. What do I need to do? Where do I start?

There are several organizations that can assist anyone who is interested in starting a business. The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) provides management assistance to current and prospective business owners. The City of Anderson is served by the East Central Indiana SBDC.

The Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) is dedicated to entrepreneur education and the formation, growth, and success of small business. Both working and retired executives and business owners donate their expertise as business counselors.

Both SBDC and SCORE provide their service at no cost to prospective business owners. Please feel free to contact Karen Soetenga at (765) 648-6116 to learn about SBDC, SCORE and other organizations that provide business support.

2. How can I find out about business seminars and workshops?

There are several ways to learn about upcoming business events. The City of Anderson Economic Development Web Site lists many business events not only in Anderson but also in surrounding communities.

The Economic Development Department also posts upcoming events, as well as news and announcements, on its Business Update Facebook and Twitter pages.

3. I am looking for a new job but I don't know where to start. Can you help me?

Looking for a job? The City of Anderson has new and existing companies looking to hire motivated and qualified individuals. The City's HireAnderson page is designed to connect Anderson residents with companies, staffing agencies, and WorkOne to help residents in their job search. Submit your information today! (Please note that you are not applying for specific jobs.) Go to HireAnderson page

4. How do I list my business property on the city's website?

If you own or represent a commercial, retail, or industrial property larger than 5,000 square-feet within the city limit of Anderson, please fill out either the Available Building Information Form, the Available Land Information Form, or contact April Phillips at 765-648-6170 or Ayako Girt at 765-648-1114 to receive the form.

Please note that our website is not a real estate listing service such as LoopNet, and therefore it generally does not list properties smaller than 5,000 square-feet. To have your property listed on a real estate listing service website, please contact a real estate agent.

5. What is a tax abatement and how do I qualify for one?

A tax abatement is a tool used by local government to attract private investment and job creation by exempting all or a portion of the new or increased assessed value resulting from new investment from the property tax roll. A tax abatement can be granted on either real or personal property.

By the Indiana State statute, tax abatements can be granted for between one to 10 years. Only in year one is the total amount of new assessed value exempt from paying property tax. In each succeeding year, the share of the previously exempted assessed value that is taxable increases. In most cases, the granting of a tax abatement will reduce the amount of property taxes paid by the owner by approximately 50 percent over the full abatement period.

Tax abatements in each instance are allowable only within the city's corporate limits in areas designated as Economic Revitalization Areas established in accordance with the Indiana State statute. Applications are reviewed primarily on new job creation or job retention, economic impact, location and investment amount, though other economic factors are considered. A tax abatement application, including a Statement of Benefits form, must be submitted prior to filing for building permits or the purchase of new equipment. Please contact our office prior to filling out the application to discuss your eligibility and qualification.

If the tax abatement application meets all statutory requirements and suitably meets the local criteria, staff will prepare a preliminary resolution recommending approval by the City Council. A final or confirmatory hearing is usually held within 30 days of the preliminary or declaratory resolution.

6. What is the Revolving Loan Fund and how do I qualify for it?

The Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) program is operated through the Department of Economic Development. The major goal of the RLF is to create new permanent jobs or retain existing jobs for Anderson. Generally, any small business is eligible to apply if they meet the definition of SBA size criteria. Exceptions are retail / commercial businesses in well-developed areas, real estate development companies, or construction firms.

The RLF program is designed such that up to 33% of the total project is lent through the RLF and at least 67% is lent by a private lender. In addition, the borrower may be required to make an equity injection of 10% of the total project cost.

For further information, please visit our Local Incentives page or contact us.

7. Who can I contact to find out about available grants or loans?

There are a very limited number of grants available to businesses or those who want to start a business, both locally and nationally. Most of the programs available to businesses are loan programs.

Please feel free to contact Small and Existing Business Specialist Karen Soetenga to learn about loan and grant programs currently available through the City of Anderson. We also encourage you to contact the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) for a comprehensive list of state and federal programs.

8. Where can I find information about flying in to Anderson's airport?

All information regarding the Anderson Municipal Airport may be found online. Anderson Municipal Airport

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1. How do I contact a city department?

Visit the Staff Directory to find all department and staff contact information.

2. Does the City of Anderson provide residential recycling service?

The City of Anderson contracts through Best Way Disposal to provide residential recycling. Residential recycling is usually picked up every other week, on your regular trash pickup day. To contact Best Way Disposal, call: 765-649-7272, or:
Best Way Disposal Website

3. How do I dispose of old appliances, tires, or household hazardous waste?

Madison County has a recycling center at 2031 Mounds Road, Anderson, IN, which accepts some appliances, tires, and household hazadous waste. To contact the Recycling Center for complete list of items accepted(*some items have a recycling fee), call:765-641-7978 or: Madison County Recycling Center Website

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1. How do I apply for a job?

The City of Anderson requires all applicants apply online. To see available positions open within the City of Anderson please click the below link.

Employment Opportunities

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1. How do I report a power outage at my home or business?

To report a power outage please call (765)-648-6484. ***Stay away from downed power lines. Treat all lines as being energized. DO NOT assume the line is not energized***

2. I have questions about my utility bill, who should I talk to?

Light & Power employees do not have access to customer utility bills. All questions about your utility bill are handled by the utility office. To reach the utility office, please call (765)648-6187 or (765)648-5944, M-F 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM.

3. How do I report a street light or security light out/staying on/damaged?

To report a street light or security light that isn't functioning correctly; please call (765)648-6480 M-F from 7:00AM to 3:00PM.
Street Light Trouble Form

4. I have life support equipment at my home/business, how do I notifiy Light & Power so priority can be given to restoring my power?

Anderson Municipal Light & Power is aware of the importance of electrical service being provided to our customers who depend on life support equipment. The utility office maintains a list of customers who depend on this equipment. To verify your information is on our list please call the utility office at (765)648-6187.

AML&P recommends that all life support customers have back up equipment in case of a prolonged unplanned outage. In the case of a planned outage the life support customers affected by the outage will be notified of the outage prior to actual outage. Life Support Form

5. How do I request banners be put up around town for my event?

To request that banners for your event be placed around town, please fill out the below request form. Banner Request Form

6. I have tree limbs growing over or on my power lines. Who do I call and who is responsible for removing?

To avoid hazardous situations, AMLP offers a tree-trimming service to clear branches away from our power lines and fiber optic cables within our easement. The homeowner is responsible for keeping tree limbs clear of service drops outside of the easement. During normal business hours, our linemen can assist the homeowner by disconnecting and reconnecting the service drop so that the limbs can be safely trimmed by the homeowner or their contractor.

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1. Who do I contact to report weeds, overgrown grass, or trash?

To report overgrown weeds and grass or excessive amounts of trash you can send an email to one of our inspectors who will investigate the offending property.

2. I am interested in Quality of Life or Beautification efforts such as Anderson in Bloom hanging flower basket program. How do I get involved?

To find out how you can help, view our information about the city beautification efforts. City Beautification

3. I want to have an event in the Anderson Town Center in downtown. Who do I need to contact?

For more information on downtown events and activities, please contact Levi Rinker.

For booking, please contact the Parks Department.

4. Is my house located in a Historic District, and what are the guidelines for structures within the Historic District in Anderson?

Anderson has two downtown historic districts known as West Eighth Street Historic District and the West Central Historic District. The guidelines for structures within the Historic District in Anderson can be found in the Historic Preservation Design Standard.

5. What is the National Historic Register and how do I list my house on it?

The National Register of Historic Places is the nation's official list of cultural resources worthy of preservation. Properties listed in the register include districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects that are significant in American history, architecture, archeology, engineering, and culture. The National Register is administered by the National Park Service, which is part of the U.S. Department of the Interior.

Properties are nominated to the National Register by the State Historic Preservation Officer of the state in which the property is located. Find out how to contact information for the State Historic Preservation Officer. State Historic Preservation Officer

6. Who do I contact to report potentially unsafe structures?

To report potentially unsafe structures you can submit an email with the information about the structure.

7. Who do I contact with questions about permits, fees, or requesting an inspection?

For questions about permits, fees, or to request an inspection send an email.

8. Who do I contact with questions regarding zoning, development, or Improvement Location Permits?

For questions relative to zoning, development, or Improvement Location Permits (ILP) please submit an email.

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1. Can I reserve a Park for an event?

YES! We have many parks and facilities that are available for daily rental. We ask that you come into the Parks and Recreation office located at the Geater Community Center (1611 Chase Street, Anderson, IN 46018) and fill out an application for facility use and pay the rental fee. If you would like to see if a date is available please call our office at (765) 648-6858 and we would be happy to check the availability for you.

2. Are there after school programs available?

YES! The Geater Community Center has multiple areas of interest for after school youth activities. 2013 renovations included a full service computer lab, game room and boxing room which are open everyday after school until 8:30pm.

In March of 2014 the Gym will be renovated to include a wood basketball court and new lighting.

3. What are the Geater Community Center Gym Hours?

Monday: 2pm-5pm (Close early due to Young Champions Cheerleader practice)
Tuesday: 2pm-9pm
Wednesday: 2pm-9pm
Thursday: 2pm-9pm
Friday: 2pm-9pm
Saturday: 9am-3pm
Sunday: CLOSED

4. How do I become a member to the Geater Fitness Center?

There is a pro-rated membership of $100 for use of the Geater Fitness Center for the year.
**Will be closed during the 2014 gym renovation taking place March 1st- April 6th**
Full payment upfront, and a membership contract must be filled out with the Parks Office.

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1. How can I be sure that my identity will be protected?

Crime Stoppers will never reveal the identity of persons placing calls through the tip line. Unless one divulges their identity, the coordinator or members of the board of directors will only know them as the four digit numbers that Crime Stoppers is provided. You can find out more at http://crimetips.org/sitemenu.aspx?ID=655&.

2. How does Crime Stoppers Work?

Crime Stoppers has established its own separate telephone line that is maintained away from the police department. Calls that come into the Crime Stoppers line can be accessed by the coordinator but not traced.

Each caller is encouraged to provide a four digit number of their choice that will identify them with specific calls. We recommend that callers use the first four digits of their social security number since it is easier for callers to remember. These numbers reveal very little if any about one’s personal identity.

Callers may choose to identify themselves, but it is not necessary. You may find out more at http://crimetips.org/sitemenu.aspx?ID=655&.

3. What must I do to turn my tip into cash?

Callers need to dial 317-262-TIPS to report their anonymous tip. If the coordinator is in his/her office when the call comes in, the call will then be answered personally. If the coordinator is not in, then the caller will receive a recorded message of instructions on what to do, and how to leave their tip.

Callers should call back within a short period of time to check up on their tip. If a tip leads to an arrest or the solving of a criminal case, then the tipster will be given instructions on how to go about getting their cash reward. Tipsters may receive up to $1,000 in reward money.

Each tip is evaluated and then assigned a number based upon a point system. The point system dictates how much a caller will receive in reward money. Tipsters are guaranteed a minimum payment of $100.

Remember, in order to get credit for a tip, the call must come through the Crime Stoppers tip line. You may find out more at http://crimetips.org/sitemenu.aspx?ID=655&.

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1. How do I become a vendor for the City of Anderson?

Step 1: Fill out the W-9 IRS fillable PDF form. After completing the form, you will need to print the first page, sign and date it, and submit it to Sharon Walters by fax at 765-648-5928, by email at swalters@cityofanderson.com, or by mailing it to the Requestor Address that is located on the IRS W-9 form.


Step 2: Fill out the Vendor Information Form. After entering all applicable information, click on the submit button at the bottom of the form and it will automatically be sent to the Purchasing Manager.

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1. I am interested in Quality of Life or Beautification efforts such as Anderson in Bloom hanging flower basket program. How do I get involved?

To find out how you can help, view our information about the city beautification efforts. City Beautification

2. What is the National Historic Register and how do I list my house on it?

The National Register of Historic Places is the nation's official list of cultural resources worthy of preservation. Properties listed in the register include districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects that are significant in American history, architecture, archeology, engineering, and culture. The National Register is administered by the National Park Service, which is part of the U.S. Department of the Interior.

Properties are nominated to the National Register by the State Historic Preservation Officer of the state in which the property is located. Find out how to contact information for the State Historic Preservation Officer. State Historic Preservation Officer

3. Where can I find more information regarding the Yard Recycling Center?

The City of Anderson recycles wood debris, leaves, and grass to keep these items out of landfills and out of the stormwater system. If you are getting your yard or garden ready for spring planting, consider taking advantage of the center's specials on high quality mulch and compost. Continue reading to learn more about the city's yard recycling efforts. Yard Recycling

4. Is my house located in a Historic District, and what are the guidelines for structures within the Historic District in Anderson?

Anderson has two downtown historic districts known as West Eighth Street Historic District and the West Central Historic District. The guidelines for structures within the Historic District in Anderson can be found in the Historic Preservation Design Standard.

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1. Does the Street Department pick up large items for trash?

No. The City of Anderson does not pick up trash, or large items, however, once a year the City Wide Cleanup (usually in the spring), gives you the opportunity to drop off large items like electronics, tires, washers, dryers, refrigerators and freezers. Also, you can have Best Way pick up as many as (5) items per week, excluding refrigerators, freezers, electronics or tires by calling Best Way at 765-649-7272 to schedule the pick up, which occurs on the day after your scheduled trash pick up day. You can drop off recyclable items at The Madison County Recycling Center located at Scatterfield Rd. & Mounds Rd. on the Southeast corner.
Madison County Recycling Center

2. Will the Street Department trim my trees?

The Street Department trims trees when branches are hanging low over city owned sidewalks & streets. To report a tree, call the Street Department at 765-648-6445. Other incidents when the Street Department trims trees is when a street is being prepared for paving, or a limb is blocking the view of a stop or yield sign.

3. How do I report a street related problem/issue?

Please fill out our citizen report form online and or call us at (765) 648-6445. Citizen Report Form

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1. How can I pay my utility bill online?

An internet payment submitted online Monday through Friday, prior to 5 p.m. Eastern time, will be credited to your account by the close of the next business day.

2. How do I discontinue utility service?

If you are moving out of our area and would like to cancel service, then we need a signed and dated disconnect request form and a copy of the account holder's drivers license. The form and required documents can be delivered in person, by fax at 765-648-5929 or by email.

3. How do I transfer utility service?

If you are moving within the area and would like to transfer your utility service, then you must have good credit with us or have the required deposit on file. It can be done in person or by phone at 765-648-6187, select Option 1.

The following must be provided:

• A fully completed application for the new location (Residential / Commercial or Business)
• A copy of a government issued photo ID for each person moving in that is listed on the lease
• Documentation of either a lease agreement or proof of purchase documents for your new location
• $5 application fee

A required deposit may be up to $420 depending on credit checks and types of service required at the new location. A credit check may be waived if the customer already has a good credit history established with ACU.

4. How does paperless billing work?

Instead of a paper bill mailed to your home, we can send your monthly bill to you electronically. You can revert back to paper bills at any time. Receiving paperless bills requires an active email address, internet connection, and a computer. Learn more about our paperless billing

5. What is my landlord's utility responsibility?

According to state and local law, a landowner is responsible for any sewer charges left unpaid by a tenant. When a tenant leaves an unpaid account, the Utility Office attempts to locate an owner for the property and notify the owner of the unpaid charges. If the charges are still unpaid, a lien is then placed on the property.

In order to help protect the landlord, the property owner can complete a Notification Form for each of the properties, so that we can send a letter to the property owner whenever the tenant has a two month bill. According to City Ordinance landlords are responsible for stormwater charges for each property, unless it is specifically stated in the lease that the tenant is to assume the charges.

6. What utility services are offered?

Anderson City Utilities currently offers the following services to the city of Anderson. If you have any questions, please contact Anderson City Utilities.

• New service
• Lights
• Water
• Sewer
• Stormwater
• Trash
• Disconnect service
• Payment of utility bill
• Problem with your bill
• Making payment arrangements on your bill
• Budget accounts
• Tapping into city water
• Security lights
  
  

7. Who do I contact for home utility inspections?

Contact the appropriate department the day before a scheduled inspection. Services will be turned on the morning requested and disconnected the next day. For electrical service, contact Amy Manwaring at 765-648-6512. For water service, contact Jan Sears at 765-648-6436.

8. Why was my utility bill estimated?

Reads sometimes have to be estimated. If the usage has been estimated for the month, it will be noted on the bill. Estimations are sometimes due to weather, blocked meters, loose dogs, or shortage of personnel.

If meters are estimated for more than three months in a row, then it should be brought to the attention of the Customer Service Department so that the problem can be resolved.

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1. What does Community Development do?

Community Development funds may be used for the following activities:

• Acquisition or disposition of real property for any public purpose
• Public facilities and improvements
• Clearance, demolition, and removal of buildings and improvements
• Provision of public services such as those concerned with employment, crime prevention, child care, health, drug abuse, education, fair housing counseling, energy conservation, welfare, home buyer down payment assistance, or recreational needs
• The repairing of streets, sidewalks, parks, playgrounds, publicly owned utilities, and public buildings
• Housing services and home ownership assistance
• Providing financial support and technical assistance, for the establishment, stabilization, and expansion of micro enterprises
• Provision of technical assistance and capacity building to public or nonprofit entities to carry out eligible neighborhood revitalization or economic development activities

2. Who is eligible for Community Development Programs?

For direct benefit eligibility, please view information about the eligible recipients. Eligible Program Recipients

3. Where can I find information about flying in to Anderson's airport?

All information regarding the Anderson Municipal Airport may be found online. Anderson Municipal Airport

4. What is the HOME Program?

The HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) provides formula grants to states and localities that communities use, often in partnership with local nonprofit groups, to fund a wide range of activities that build, buy, and/or rehabilitate affordable housing for rent or home ownership or provide direct rental assistance to people living with low incomes.

5. What is the Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP)?

The goal of the Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP) is to stabilize neighborhoods by addressing abandoned and foreclosed property through acquisition, demolition, new construction, and rehabilitation.

The city's community development department received both federal entitlement and state competitive "pots" of dollars for this program. The NSP federal program is funded by the department of Housing and Urban Development, (HUD). The competitive "pot" is funded by the state. The goals of both programs include stimulating the local economic economy through construction job creation and creating safe, livable, and viable neighborhoods through the removal of blight, infilling with new affordable housing, and upgrading basic housing stock.

6. What is Community Development?

Community Development is a city department that is funded by the department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The department is funded by the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME, and other competitive and non-competitive grants to address issues relating to housing, infrastructure, and public services.

CDBG's national goal is the development of viable urban communities by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment, and expanding economic opportunities principally for persons of low and moderate income.

Under Title I, Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended, all activities funded with CDBG funds must show sufficient public benefit.

• Benefit to low and moderate income persons
• Contribute to the elimination of slums and blight
• Address urgent needs for which other funds are not available (natural disaster)

7. I want to have an event in the Anderson Town Center in downtown. Who do I need to contact?

For more information on downtown events and activities, please contact Levi Rinker.

For booking, please contact the Parks Department.

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1. My water pressure seems low. What should I do?

The first thing you would want to do is acquire some basic information. Is it only one faucet in the house? Is it all of them? If one or more faucets in the house have normal pressure or volume, then chances are it is an internal problem and not generally something the city can help you with. Many times, it's a simple matter of unscrewing and rinsing out the aerator on the faucet to return a faucets flow to normal. Sometimes, simply working the valve underneath the sink in order to remove the small amount of debris that can get caught in the valve and impede the water flow.
If all of your water faucets are affected, then first check your stop and waste valve (the main shut off where the water enters the building) to be sure it and all other valves are on all the way. At that point, if the problem is still not resolved, then simply call us and we will come out to check our service and meter, etc.

2. Are adjustments made for water leaks due to a leaking faucet or toilet?

No, regrettably, the water that was wasted still had to be processed and delivered to your home and then went into the sewer system to have to be processed by the Wastewater Treatment Facilities.

Some leaks, such as those occurring in your yard or outside spigot, may not have gone through the sewer system and therefore an adjustment on sewage may be applicable in these specific cases.

3. Is there any adjustment to my bill for using water on my lawn, filling a pool, washing cars, or other uses where water does not go down the sewer?

Yes, automatic adjustments on sewage for residential customers occur during the summer months. It is advisable to contact the Utility Office beforehand to make sure these adjustments go through.

4. In an emergency water leak at my property after hours, who do I call?

Customers needing immediate assistance or service after regular business hours should call our Control Center at 765-648–6444. This line is staffed 24 hours a day.

5. Where is my main valve in case I need to turn my water off?

Although we would have no record of it, your stop and waste valve should be located at the point in which your water service enters the building in a utility room, crawlspace or basement. Homeowners should conduct a quick survey to determine where this valve is located and to verify that it is an operating condition.

6. Does my water contain flouride?

Yes, we add fluoride to the naturally occurring level already present in the water to obtain the optimum dosage recommended by the state Board of Health, which is one part per million. Studies consistently show that fluoridated drinking water does as much or more to protect the teeth (especially in children) than fluoridated toothpaste. Basically, fluoride strengthens the enamel of the teeth and even provides repair to microscopic decay before that damage becomes evident.

7. When is the best time to water my lawn?

Close to sunset and shortly thereafter are the best times to water your lawn to avoid excessive evaporation from the heat of the sun.

8. I have a leak, whose responsibility is it?

Anything after the customer service connection, a point located near the curb or right-of-way designated by the Utility is the customer's responsibility. This is usually at the cities shut off valve or curb stop or meter pit located near the curb, easement or right-of-way. Should you have any questions or need any help in making this determination, please call our offices at 765-648–6436. If it is after hours, then call 765-648–6444.

Business Hours are 7am to 3pm

9. New water service, who do I contact?

Call the Utility Office at 765-648–6187 during regular business hours. Regular Business hours are 8am - 5pm

10. Who do I contact for repairs or to turn off water at my property?

You would contact the water department at 765-648-6436. If it is after hours, then call 765-648-6444.

Regular Business Hours are 7am to 3pm

11. What is a stop and waste valve?

This is a type of valve that not only shuts off the flow of water but has a side port that when unscrewed allows the water to drain back, hence the term waste. This term is often applied to other type of valves that simply stop the flow of water.