Public Notice: Winter Weather Recovery and Municipal Service Updates
Official Notice: Appointment of New IMPD Chief of Police
Mayor Joe Hogsett has officially announced the appointment of Tanya Terry as the new Chief of the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD). Terry, a 27-year veteran of the department, makes history as the first woman to lead the IMPD. This leadership transition comes at a critical time for the city's public safety strategy, with the new Chief expected to focus on community-based policing and recruitment efforts throughout 2026.
Health Advisory: Emergency Prescription Refill Waiver
Following the severe winter storm that impacted Central Indiana earlier this week, the Defense Health Agency has issued a public health advisory. TRICARE beneficiaries in all Indiana counties are currently authorized to receive emergency prescription refills through February 5, 2026. This measure ensures that residents whose travel was restricted by the recent heavy snowfall can maintain access to essential medications. To utilize this waiver, residents should take their prescription bottles to any network pharmacy. This advisory remains in effect even as local travel restrictions are downgraded.
Travel Advisory: Post-Storm Road Safety and Maintenance
The Indianapolis Department of Public Works (DPW) continues recovery operations following the accumulation of over 11 inches of snow. While the previous Travel Warning has been downgraded to a Travel Watch, officials advise that frigid temperatures and low wind chills continue to cause icy patches on secondary and residential streets. DPW crews are currently operating in 12-hour shifts with a primary focus on pothole repair and salt application in high-traffic corridors. Residents are encouraged to utilize the city’s new interactive road closure portal to monitor real-time conditions and maintenance schedules in their specific neighborhoods.
Public Service Announcement: Trash Collection Transition
The City of Indianapolis reminds residents that the transition to Lakeshore Recycling Services (LRS) for residential waste collection is now fully in effect. As of January 1, 2026, LRS has taken over routes previously serviced by Republic and WM in designated areas of Marion County. Residents who have not yet received their new service calendars or those experiencing missed pickups during the recent winter weather are directed to contact the Mayor’s Action Center. DPW emphasizes that despite the new contract, service days for most residents remain unchanged unless specifically notified via mail.
Upcoming Council Discussions: Data Center Regulations
The City-County Council recently reviewed proposals regarding the regulation of data center projects within Marion County. While a proposed six-month moratorium on new data center approvals was recently debated by committee members, the Council is currently moving forward with alternative regulatory frameworks. These measures aim to balance the city’s technological growth with environmental sustainability and local energy demands. Further public hearings on these zoning adjustments are expected to be scheduled for the upcoming February session.