A bill currently being considered in the Indiana General Assembly—House Bill 1233—proposes eliminating township governments across most of the state by 2027. Under the plan, responsibilities like emergency assistance and fire services would shift from township trustees to newly created county-level positions.
Fortunately, Marion County is exempt from this legislation. That means township trustee offices in Indianapolis—including the Wayne Township Trustee’s Office, located right here on West Washington Street—would remain intact and fully operational.
That’s good news for the thousands of residents who rely on the leadership of Trustee Jeb Bardon and his dedicated team. The Wayne Township Trustee’s Office is often the first place families turn when they’re facing eviction, utility shutoffs, or crisis situations. From rent assistance and school clothing to housing referrals and disaster relief, the office serves as a lifeline for neighbors in need.
Under Jeb’s leadership, the office has focused on long-term stability and proactive community engagement—not just emergency aid. Their work doesn’t make headlines—but it changes lives every day.
However, the office is not without its challenges. While House Bill 1233 hasn’t passed and wouldn’t impact Marion County even if it did, Senate Bill 1, which was signed into law, is projected to reduce Wayne Township’s property tax revenue by roughly $1 million between 2026 and 2028. This shortfall is expected to directly affect the township’s fire department. In response, Trustee Bardon and Fire Chief John Garino have taken strategic steps to cut costs—like refurbishing fire trucks instead of buying new and sourcing more affordable equipment—while continuing to meet the growing needs of the community.
As the state explores new models of local governance, Wayne Township will continue offering the kind of direct, compassionate support that defines strong neighborhoods.
To learn more about the services available or how to get help, visit www.waynetownshiptrustee.org.
