The first of two 2014 public meetings of the Broad Ripple Village Association (BRVA) was held on April 15, 2014, at the Indianapolis Art Center. The room was packed with close to 200 attendees. BRVA president Justin McKeand called the meeting to order around 7pm. He recognized past president Jay Wetzel and asked the members of the newly elected board of directors to stand. Then a raffle winner was drawn for the first of several prizes, donated by Half Baked Pottery, Air Tan and Gordon's Food Service.

Justin announced a new BRVA membership campaign called Ask A Friend. Each BRVA member can recruit prospective members that would fill in the "referred by" portion on the membership form. The first prize for the member recruiting 5 or more is a certificate for dinner for six at Corner Wine Bar. Everyone with a referral will get a red tote bag.

BRVA board member Tom Healy spoke next on the accomplishments of 2013. He described too many projects to list here. They included the rebuilding of Rainbow Bridge, new crosswalks, and many new business projects that the BRVA worked with to ensure that the Envision Broad Ripple plan was properly taken into consideration in each. Tom described the role of the TIF and the Shell Station project in stimulating daytime activities in the Village.

BRVA board member Helen Carroll explained the current status of the parking situation in the Village. The Department of Public Works is currently formulating a plan for Broad Ripple based on the input from the BRVA and resident/business surveys. The plan is expected in May with public meetings to discuss it.

BRVA board member Scott Dunlap went over several public safety issues and introduced IMPD Sgt. Sandy Storkman and Marion County Prosecutor Terry Curry. They explained the role of IMPD and the Prosecutor's office in helping to alleviate crime in Broad Ripple.

BRVA board member Elizabeth Marshall gave the current status of flood insurance in the area. Several changes are in the works and there is also a request to do partial area changes to the flood maps as the levee phases are completed. New flood maps are expected this summer.

Everyone congregated in the lobby after the meeting for complimentary Sun King beers and food from La Mulita, Usual Suspects, 317 Burger.

Next meeting - October 21, 2014 - BRVA elections