House District 94 update for the week of 5/13
Pike High School Career Day
Last week, I had the privilege of being invited to speak to students at Pike High School for career day. I spoke about what it was like to be a state legislator in the Indiana General Assembly, how a bill becomes a law and how to get involved with state government as students. It is always so inspiring to interact with young people in my district and help them understand the wonderful careers opportunities in public service.
Supporting the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra
Last week, I proudly supported the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra at their inaugural fundraising event, FORE! the ISO. At the fundraiser, we were able to raise over $37,000 for ISO’s education programs which serve over 10,000 young people in Central Indiana every year. These programs include Discovery Concerts, the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra, and the Teddy Bear Concert Series. Music and learning to play an instrument offers so many benefits and opportunities for students interested in music. The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra and the youth education programs are wonderful community assets and I was proud to help them fundraise that this event.
Hoosiers make it clear — they want property tax relief
Last week, I spoke to WTHR about the desperate need for property tax relief. This year, many homeowners have seen increases of up to 17% on their property taxes. For those on low or fixed incomes, especially seniors, an increase of that degree causes significant financial challenges. Some people simply cannot make the payment. Nobody should be forced out of their home because their property taxes are too high. Hoosiers need relief from their state lawmakers, and I hope to take a serious look at our property tax structure next legislative session. Check out the great coverage of this issues from WTHR below!
Hoosiers make it clear — they want property tax relief
Energy Assistance Program
Every year, The Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority (IHCDA) offers the Energy Assistance Program (EAP) for those struggling to afford high energy costs. The application for 2024 closes May 20th at 5:00 p.m. EST. The EAP is a one-time annual benefit paid directly to the utility vendor for applicants who meet a certain income requirements.
You can apply online, by mail, in person or by calling 2-1-1. For more details on the program, eligibility and application visit the IHCDA website today.
Pike Farmers Market
The Pike Farmers Market is opening Saturday, June 8! Hours run from 8:30 a.m. to noon every Saturday through September 21. Earlier this month, the 2024 vendors were officially announced! For more information and the full list of vendors, visit https://www.pikefarmersmarket.org/vendors.
This is a great opportunity to shop for locally grown produce as well as handcrafted goods. If you’ve never been to the market, I encourage you to come and visit the vendors, mingle with neighbors, enjoy treats, and appreciate this wonderful community asset.
Free Tax Help
This Friday, May 17, the IRS and Taxpayer Advocate Service will be offering free tax help from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the East 38th St. Branch of the Indianapolis Public Library (5420 East 38th St.) You can call (317) 274-4359 to schedule an appointment to have your taxes done on site. Walk ins are also accepted with no appointment required. Just show up on May 17th with your documents. Joining the dedicated volunteers of United Way will be representatives from Indiana Legal Services, Neighborhood Christian Legal Clinic, Social Security Administration and Connection to Federal Taxpayer Advocate Staff.
As always, feel free to reach out to my office with any questions or concerns.