State gives city authority to decide on Urban Enterprise Zone

Indiana lawmakers changed rules regarding the renewal of the urban enterprise zones, giving the power to city councils to make the choice, instead of a designated state board. The zones in New Albany and Jeffersonville began in 2000, and their UEZ association leaders will be the first to appear before their local councils asking for a renewal; that will have to be done by year's end, as the zones are permitted for 10 years by the state. Michael Ladd is the executive director of the New Albany Enterprise Zone Association; he will be asking the city council for a five-year extension. UEZ offers tax incentives for businesses located within its boundaries