Indiana’s bicentennial is next year and Governor Mike Pence’s proposed budget includes funding for several parts of the celebration. But the Senate’s budget architect says the governor might be doing too much celebrating.
The governor’s proposed budget includes more than 50 million dollars for several bicentennial projects. Office of Management and Budget Director Chris Atkins says that includes money for a statewide torch relay, a Bicentennial Plaza next to the Statehouse and an education center at the State Library.
“The two big ones are a new State Archives building and a new Bicentennial Inn at Potato Creek State Park in Saint Joseph County," says Atkins. "That would be the first new state park inn built since 1939.”
State Budget Committee Chair Luke Kenley isn’t throwing his full support behind those proposals.
“I’m a little concerned about that," says Kenley. "I need to take a closer look at all that; I’m not sure I’m excited about all that. So we’ll see.”
Atkins says the state may be able to pay for the bicentennial projects by leasing out state cell towers.
