IN SB0459

Exempts ad valorem property tax levies imposed under IC 36-8-14 from tax levy limits for townships and fire protection districts, and extends this exemption to reorganized political subdivisions that include a township.

Streamlines procedures for political subdivisions to realize savings through power/duty transfers, department mergers, or reorganizations by allowing them to specify tax levy adjustments in their agreements rather than having the Department of Local Government Finance establish criteria.

Eliminates county legislative body approval requirement for township mergers, allowing township trustees to directly file merger resolutions with the Department of Local Government Finance, circuit court clerk, and secretary of state; merger becomes effective January 1 following adoption.

Grants reorganized political subdivisions broad powers including ability to establish funds and impose taxes that any reorganizing unit was authorized to establish or impose before reorganization, and allows reorganized subdivisions that include a township to maintain township services and debt repayment flexibility.

Authorizes transfer of redevelopment area jurisdiction between adjacent municipalities if property owners consent, both municipalities adopt similar ordinances/agreements, and at least one municipality has completed a reorganization under IC 36-1.5; transfer authority expires December 31, 2013.