Martindale-Brightwood Data Center Hearing, IHA Sells Properties, Baird Running for Re-Election, Kids' Social Media Ban, Homeless Criminalization, Nuclear Permits Deregulation Bill, IU Football

January 16, 2026

A decision on the rezoning request to build a controversial data center in the Martindale-Brightwood neighborhood in Indianapolis has been extended. A handful of affordable housing units have been sold by the Indianapolis Housing Agency and will be under new management. Indiana U.S. Congressman Jim Baird is seeking re-election. A bill that would ban children from having social media accounts in Indiana passed its first legislative hurdle on Wednesday, amid growing concerns of social media’s impact on children’s health. Homeless encampments are the target of legislation being considered by Indiana lawmakers. Indiana residents face rising utility costs amid an increasing demand for electricity.

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