Monthly Archives: January 2026

Fishers Reports 95% Compliance With Rental Registration Ordinance

City Council Tuesday night meeting

When the City of Fishers implemented an ordinance limiting rental homes to 10 percent of residences within a neighborhood—while allowing for certain exemptions and grandfathering provisions—it also required rental properties to be registered with the city.

Community Development and Economic Development Director Megan Baumgartner told the Fishers City Council Tuesday night that compliance with the registration requirement has been high. Only 137 homes citywide are suspected of being unregistered, meaning approximately 95 percent of rental homes have registered as required.

With the registration period largely complete, the city will now begin enforcing the ordinance.

The Council also approved a change in the administrative oversight of the program, shifting responsibility from the Planning and Zoning Department to Community and Economic Development.

Other items before the Council Tuesday night included:

• Fishers approved an interlocal agreement with Hamilton County allowing work to begin on a planned roundabout at 131st Street and Brooks School Road. A portion of the necessary right-of-way for the project is county-owned, requiring the formal agreement.

• Rising personnel costs prompted changes to the city’s fee schedule for police video requests. Under the new rates, Fishers Police Department review will cost 64 cents per minute, while attorney review will be billed at 94 cents per minute per video.

• Councilors approved amendments to the residential parking permit ordinance aimed at improving the city’s ability to enforce the regulation in the future.

• A $1 million transfer from the utility fund to the stormwater fund was approved to support an economic development agreement with INCOG. The city is offering incentives for the company to expand its workforce from about 400 employees to roughly 1,000 by 2030. The funding will allow INCOG to expand its parking lot to accommodate additional staff.

• A revised proposal for the Story Cottage Memory Care facility was introduced on first reading. The project, proposed for 10990 Brooks School Road, was withdrawn and reworked before returning to the Council. Only one Council vote is required to advance the proposal to the Fishers Plan Commission, which is expected to consider the project and hold a public hearing on February 4. The City Council is scheduled to take final action on February 23. During public comment, nearby residents said they continue to oppose the memory care facility, even with the proposed changes, citing concerns about its proximity to their homes.

Fishers City Council Raises Concerns Over Statehouse Bills Affecting Local Control

Mayor Fadness updates Councilors on developments at the Statehouse

The Fishers City Council on Tuesday night discussed legislation moving through the Indiana Statehouse that could significantly affect how cities make decisions in the future.

Councilor Brad DeReamer highlighted two bills currently under consideration by state lawmakers that he said raise concerns for local governments.

The first, House Bill 1152, would require homeowners associations to have a quorum of residents present at any meeting where an annual budget increase is approved. DeReamer said many HOAs already struggle to get enough residents to attend meetings, and the requirement could result in underfunded neighborhoods and neglected basic maintenance.

DeReamer also focused on House Bill 1001, which legislative leaders have described as an effort to improve housing affordability. He expressed concern that the bill could limit the ability of local governments to make zoning and land-use decisions.

Mayor Scott Fadness told council members he was at the Statehouse earlier Tuesday meeting with the bill’s author, Rep. Doug Miller of Elkhart, and described the conversation as productive.

“I’m cautiously optimistic that we can get to a place that doesn’t strip you guys of your authority to make decisions on behalf of our residents and what kind of community they want to live in and grow,” Fadness told council members.

Fadness said several provisions in House Bill 1001, as currently written, could impede a city’s ability to charge impact fees, establish design standards, and regulate development density. While the bill includes an opt-out provision allowing some cities to avoid certain requirements, Fadness said he is concerned lawmakers could remove that option in a future legislative session.

With the General Assembly’s short session expected to conclude before the City Council meets again, Fadness said he will draft a letter on behalf of the council outlining its concerns. Individual council members may choose to sign the letter if they wish.

Fishers Police Continue to Describe Case of Missing Teen Hailey Buzbee as Endangered Status

The Fishers Police Department is providing new details in the ongoing search for 17-year-old Hailey Buzbee, whose case was recently upgraded to an endangered missing juvenile investigation.

In an update released Tuesday, police said they have received and investigated numerous tips from the public with the assistance of state and federal law enforcement partners. Authorities thanked the community for continuing to share Hailey’s information and for reporting credible leads, noting that public involvement has been critical to the investigation.

Because the case remains active, police said many details cannot be released in order to protect Hailey. However, investigators confirmed that Hailey left her home willingly sometime during the night of January 5 or the early morning hours of January 6 and initially was classified as a runaway.

Police now believe Hailey did not act alone and left with a plan. Based on investigative findings that have not been made public, her case has since been elevated to endangered missing juvenile status, indicating heightened concern for her safety.

Anyone who sees Hailey or has information that could help locate her is urged to call 911 immediately or contact the Fishers Police Department non-emergency line at 317-773-1282.

Police emphasized that continued sharing of Hailey’s information and reporting of relevant tips could help bring her home safely.

Chase Rice to Headline Benefit Concert for Huntington’s Disease at Fishers Event Center

Chase Rice will headline the 17th annual Evening of Inspiration: Chasing A Cure, a concert benefiting Huntington’s disease research, on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at the Fishers Event Center. Indiana native Clayton Anderson will join Rice as a special guest for the event.

Presented by the Bev Hartig Huntington’s Disease Foundation, the annual concert and gala raises funds to support research aimed at finding a cure for Huntington’s disease, a hereditary neurodegenerative disorder. Since its founding, the nonprofit has donated more than $3.6 million toward Huntington’s research.

Tickets for the concert go on sale Friday, January 23, at 10 a.m. and will be available through FishersEventCenter.com.

“This event reminds us what is possible when hope, music and purpose meet,” said Lisa Rump, gala committee co-chair for the foundation. “Together, we are not just raising funds—we are fueling real progress, honoring families affected and moving one step closer to the future Bev dreamed of.”

Rice is a multi-platinum country music artist with a career spanning more than 15 years. He first gained widespread recognition as a songwriter on the Diamond-certified hit “Cruise” before launching a successful solo career that includes multiple No. 1 singles such as “Eyes On You” and “Drinkin’ Beer. Talkin’ God. Amen.” Rice has sold out tours worldwide and shared stadium stages with artists including Garth Brooks and Kenny Chesney. His most recent album, ELDORA, reflects a more stripped-down, independent approach to songwriting inspired by the American West.

Anderson, a Southern Indiana native, has built a national following rooted in Midwest sensibilities. He won Kenny Chesney’s Next Big Star competition in 2008 and has since released several albums while touring with major country acts including Eric Church, Blake Shelton and Jason Aldean. His music has also been featured in national campaigns and sports broadcasts on ESPN and through partnerships with brands such as Ford.

The Bev Hartig Huntington’s Disease Foundation was established in 2011 and operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Inspired by the late Bev Hartig, who was diagnosed with Huntington’s disease, the foundation focuses on education, funding innovative research and maintaining awareness that a cure is achievable. Its flagship Evening of Inspiration event has grown into one of the organization’s most significant annual fundraisers.

More information about the foundation and its mission is available at bevhartighuntingtonsdisease.com.

Don Fischer’s Moment: A Voice That Finally Got Its IU Football Championship

Don Fischer

Indiana University’s climb from one of the most historically challenged programs in college football to a national championship is the kind of story that feels almost too improbable to be real. It is a journey worthy of a Hollywood script, and someday, it just might become one.

There are countless angles to explore in IU’s remarkable rise, but I want to focus on just one part of the story: Don Fischer.

Don Fischer and I both worked at Network Indiana Radio in early 1983. I was in the newsroom, while Don’s office was on the sports side of the building, so our paths didn’t cross often in those days. Still, even then, his reputation as a dedicated professional was well known.

I next spent meaningful time with Don in the late 1980s at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Each May, I took a working vacation to cover practice and qualifying for the Indianapolis 500. We would talk along the pit wall, catching up and reconnecting with many of the people we had both known during our time at Network Indiana. What stood out then, as it does now, is that Don Fischer is first and foremost a kind and considerate man.

That is why it was especially gratifying to see ESPN give Don a well-deserved shoutout during the national championship game, even replaying his call of the interception that sealed IU’s historic victory. After calling multiple national championship games for IU basketball, delivering that moment for the football program had to be especially meaningful.

Fischer has been the voice of IU football and basketball for 53 years. Very few broadcasters spend that long in one place, and even fewer do it at such a consistently high level. At 78 years old, Don Fischer is still at the top of his game. I called high school and college sports on radio in the 1970s, and at 74, I know I could not perform at the same level today as I once did. Yet Don continues to do the job with the same precision, passion, and professionalism he has shown since 1974.

So, Don, congratulations. I suspect that once the glow of this national championship fades, your thoughts will not linger on what has been accomplished. Instead, you’ll be focused on preparing for the next IU basketball broadcast.

That, after all, is the Don Fischer I know.

Fishers boasts a successful MLK Day food drive

The City of Fishers marked Martin Luther King Jr. Day and the National Day of Service on Monday with a successful community-wide food drive that collected 30,000 pounds of food for local families in need.

The drive took place January 19 at Fishers Kroger locations and was organized in response to increased demand at local food pantries following the holiday season, a time when donations typically decline while needs remain high. City officials partnered with the Good Samaritan Network of Hamilton County, Memory Ventures, and the Fishers Youth Initiative to support food pantries across the community.

Since the launch of Fishers’ MLK Day food drive in 2023, the annual effort has now collected more than 101,000 pounds of food, underscoring sustained community participation and growing awareness of local food insecurity. Organizers said the event reflects the spirit of service central to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy, encouraging residents to take action through volunteerism and giving.

Collected donations will be distributed to local food pantries to help restock shelves during a traditionally challenging time of year. City leaders thanked residents, volunteers, and partner organizations for their continued support, noting that collaborative efforts like the MLK Day food drive play a vital role in strengthening community resources and ensuring families have access to essential food assistance.

Fishers Police Seek Public’s Help in Search for Missing 17-Year-Old

Recent photos of Hailey Paige Buzbee

Fishers police are asking for the public’s help as they continue the search for a missing 17-year-old girl who has been classified as an endangered juvenile.

The Fishers Police Department confirmed Monday morning that Hailey Buzbee has been reported missing and that the case remains an active and ongoing investigation. According to police, detectives and law enforcement partners are working around the clock to follow up on all leads and tips related to her disappearance.

“This is still a very active investigation,” Fishers Police Major Ryan Jones said in a statement. “FPD and our law enforcement partners are working around the clock to investigate every tip.”

Police have not released additional details about the circumstances surrounding Buzbee’s disappearance, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation. Officials say updates will be shared as the investigation allows.

Authorities are urging anyone with information that could help locate Buzbee to contact law enforcement as soon as possible. Even information that may seem minor could prove important to investigators.

Police emphasized that community assistance is critical in missing juvenile cases and encouraged residents to remain alert and report anything that could help bring Buzbee home safely.

Catherine Torzewski files to run for Indiana Senate District 31 in Democratic primary

Catherine Torzewski

Catherine Torzewski has officially filed paperwork to run for Indiana State Senate District 31 in the Democratic primary election.

Torzewski is a local Realtor, small business owner and mother of two who lives in the Geist area. Senate District 31 includes Fishers, Geist and parts of Lawrence.

In her campaign, Torzewski said she is focusing on affordability and accessibility in health care and housing, addressing the overall cost of living in Indiana, fully funding public education, and ensuring teachers and public schools have adequate resources.

“I believe we can do more for our families, our children and our communities,” Torzewski said in a statement. “The quality of life in Indiana has continued to diminish under 20 years of Republican super majority rule. This district is purple and ready to flip for a candidate that can do more and deliver results. I’ve worked in this community, I’m raising my children here, I’m fully invested and ready to work hard for the voters of Senate District 31.”

Torzewski is one of three Democrats who have announced campaigns in the primary race. Kerry Forestal and Lasima Packett have also announced they are seeking the Democratic nomination for the District 31 seat.

Indiana’s primary election is scheduled for May 5, 2026.

Fishers marks MLK Jr. Day with citywide food drive, call to service

As communities across the country observe the federal holiday honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the City of Fishers is encouraging residents to reflect on his legacy through acts of service and community involvement.

Fishers’ 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Day observance is centered on a citywide food drive and volunteer opportunities aimed at addressing food insecurity, a need city officials say often increases after the holiday season. Local food pantries are facing higher demand and shrinking supplies, making this year’s effort especially timely.

The community-wide food drive will take place on Monday, Jan. 19, coinciding with MLK Jr. Day. Last year, Fishers residents donated approximately 30,000 pounds of food, and organizers are hopeful that total can be exceeded in 2026. Officials say the initiative reflects Dr. King’s belief that service to others is a powerful way to strengthen communities.

“Everybody can be great, because everybody can serve,” Dr. King once said, a message that continues to resonate decades after his death. In Fishers, that message is being translated into action through opportunities for residents to give food, donate time, or both.

Volunteer shifts will be available at Kroger locations in Fishers on Jan. 19, from 10 a.m. to noon and from noon to 2 p.m., at stores located at 7272 Fishers Crossing Drive and 11700 Olio Road. Volunteers will help collect and organize donations as residents drop off food.

Food donations are also being accepted in advance from Monday, Jan. 5, through Friday, Jan. 16, at several locations throughout the city, including Fishers City Hall, the Fishers YMCA, and the Fishers Community Center. On MLK Jr. Day itself, donations will be collected from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Kroger stores at 9799 E. 116th Street, 11700 Olio Road, and 7272 Fishers Crossing Drive.

For those unable to participate in person, the city has established online giving options through Amazon and Walmart wish lists. Requested items include nonperishable foods such as canned beans, fruits, meats and soups, boxed pasta, peanut butter, cereal, meal cups, snack bars, and breakfast items. Glass containers are not accepted.

Dr. King’s federal holiday is often described as a “day on, not a day off,” a reminder that his vision extended beyond words to meaningful action. By focusing its observance on service and compassion, Fishers aims to honor that legacy while making a tangible difference for neighbors in need.

Cold Weather Advisory Issued as Wind Chills Could Drop to -19°F Overnight

Hamilton County Emergency Management is warning residents to prepare for dangerously cold conditions overnight, with wind chills expected to drop as low as -19 degrees Fahrenheit.

A Cold Weather Advisory is in effect from 4 a.m. to 11 a.m. tomorrow (Monday) as a blast of Arctic air moves into central Indiana. Officials say the extreme cold poses a serious risk for frostbite and hypothermia, especially for anyone spending extended time outdoors.

Emergency management officials urge residents to take precautions to stay safe. Those who must be outside are advised to dress in layers and wear a hat, gloves, and insulated boots. At these temperatures, exposed skin can develop frostbite in a matter of minutes.

Officials are also asking residents to check on elderly neighbors, individuals with limited mobility, and anyone without adequate heat. Pets should be brought indoors during the cold snap.

Drivers are encouraged to prepare their vehicles for winter emergencies by keeping extra blankets, warm clothing, and basic emergency supplies in their cars in case of a breakdown or delay.

Homeowners should also take steps to prevent frozen pipes. Emergency management recommends letting faucets drip slightly and opening cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing.

Hamilton County Emergency Management says residents should continue to monitor weather updates and follow guidance from local officials as conditions develop.

Residents are reminded that taking simple precautions can help prevent cold-related injuries and property damage during extreme winter weather.