A proposed Citizens State Bank branch along 116th Street, just west of Olio Road, drew skepticism from several Fishers City Council members Monday night, with much of the discussion focused on whether the location is appropriate for drive-through banking.
Council members also revisited the history of commercial development plans for the property and concerns previously expressed by residents of nearby neighborhoods.
The proposal calls for a banking center of up to 4,500 square feet, with a drive-through on the north side of the building, away from nearby homes. Bank representatives said the drive-through is expected to generate relatively little traffic and agreed to provide the council with projections supporting that estimate.
Mayor Scott Fadness noted that transportation changes are coming to the area. The city plans to construct a roundabout at 116th Street and Olio Road in 2027, while another roundabout is planned at 113th Street and Olio Road.
The bank proposal next goes to the Fishers Advisory Plan Commission for its Aug. 5 meeting. A final City Council vote is scheduled for Aug. 17.
Council considers two outdoor drinking districts
In a separate matter, the council received a proposal to establish Designated Outdoor Refreshment Areas, commonly known as DORAs, in the Nickel Plate District and Fishers District.
Under Indiana law, a DORA allows adults 21 and older to purchase alcoholic beverages from participating licensed businesses and carry those drinks outdoors in specially marked cups. Beverages must remain within the designated boundaries.
Council members’ questions centered largely on enforcement, including how the city would monitor activity within the districts. City officials said the Fishers Police Department would watch for problems and monitor behavior. Public intoxication and other alcohol-related laws would continue to apply.
The council is expected to take a final vote on the DORA proposal Aug. 17. If the districts receive all required local and state approvals, they are scheduled to begin operating Sept. 1.
Other council business
In other matters:
- Legends of Geist: The council reviewed a proposed for-sale, single-family neighborhood at 10401 E. 116th St. The development would cover 10.45 acres and include 32 homes—eight with rear-loaded garages and 24 with side-loaded garages. The starting price point in these homes are expected to be $900.000, according to the developer. The Plan Commission is scheduled to hold a public hearing Sept. 2, followed by a final City Council vote Sept. 21.
- Annexations: The council gave first reading to several voluntary annexation requests. Additional consideration will be required before the properties can be formally incorporated into the city.
- Community Comment: Residents raised concerns about conditions on several city streets and roads, privacy issues involving the Fishers Police Department’s Flock automated license-plate-reading cameras, conditions along portions of the Nickel Plate Trail and parking near King Jugg Brewing Company.