Business View Civil Municipal - July 2023

43 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 4, ISSUE 7 AURORA , INDIANA The Ark, a replica of Noah’s Ark, both of which bring visitors from across the United States, contributing to the success of local bed and breakfast accommodations and rental facilities. Balancing Growth while Maintaining Cozy Charm, Aurora is Working to Expand Housing in the City To address increasing housing demands, Aurora is actively exploring expansion opportunities. Mayor Drury recounts, “We’re looking at annexing some areas around us that probably should have been annexed a long time ago, to increase the possibilities for growth. But it is going to be controlled growth so that we keep that small town cozy feel at the same time that we’re expanding out.” According to Woods, the city is also working to bring more housing inventory, including the development of high-end condominiums, apartments, and a new subdivision, known as the Kopp Farm Development, which will bring single-family homes. “87 homes is the limit, that’s the end goal,” acknowledges Woods. “They’re going to start with 10 houses as a feeler to see how people would appreciate that kind of neighborhood and area.” As for mixed-use options in the downtown, Woods conveys, “We actually have an ordinance where unless you’re grandfathered in, every single first floor of the downtown area is business. That’s the key, as you walk down the streets and you’re enjoying the historic sites, it is just business after business, mom-and-pop shops, small diners, just that small-town feel. That’s one thing that an ordinance was made to preserve.” To enhance the housing opportunities in the city core, Aurora has recently formed a partnership with Indiana Landmarks, an organization that represents the entire region. Together with the neighboring city of Lawrenceburg, they have submitted a grant application to secure funding for the development of second-story residential units above ground-floor shops. “We keep looking at ways to improve that niche so that folks can come in and live above their specialty shop,” asserts Drury. “So, that’s a high priority and one