This is the WFHB Local News for Tuesday, October 13th, 2020.

Later in the program, WFHB Correspondent Katrine Bruner covers a local exhibit highlighting the importance of Indiana’s natural history. That’s coming up in today’s feature report.

Also coming up in the next half hour, Artbeat – a weekly program, where Dr. Filiz Cicek interviews artists, activists and educators about their work.

But first, your daily headlines.

Indiana Sees Spike In Cases as Stage 5 Set to Expire

Over the past week, Indiana saw a three-day record spike in Covid-19 cases.

This comes after the state moved into Stage 5 of Governor Eric Holcomb’s reopening plan. State officials warn that even in Stage 5, masks and social distancing are still required.

In a press conference last week, Governor Holcomb said spikes in cases are expected when state residents let their guard down.

Last week, WRTV Indianapolis spoke with Kristen Kelley, Director of Infection Prevention at Indiana University Health.

Kelley said the state is keeping a close eye on the number of new cases, hospitalizations, deaths and the overall census.

Meanwhile, Stage 5 is set to expire on Saturday, despite the recent spike in cases. After that, the state would fully reopen. Governor Holcomb will make an announcement on Wednesday on whether or not he will extend the current stage.

Dr. Woody Myers, Democratic candidate for Governor, criticized Governor Holcomb’s reopening plan.

On Monday, the state saw over 1,500 new coronavirus cases and 27 newly reported deaths, according to the Indiana State Department of Health.

The Associated Press reports that nearly 1.5 million people across the state were tested, while around 2.3 million total tests were administered.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said washing your hands, staying at home when sick, wearing a mask and maintaining a six-feet social distance can help prevent the spread of coronavirus.

City of Bloomington Utilities Service Board 

Bloomington Utilities Service Board approved an Amendment to the agreement with Cassady Electrical Consultants for on-call services. Purchasing Manager Cindy Shaw spoke about the request during their October 12th meeting.

City Attorney Chris Wheeler said thirty thousand would be provided each year for the remainder of the on-call agreement. He stated additional on call service agreements provide greater availability.

Wheeler mentioned emergency procedure requests are reduced additional on call services.

Monroe County Board of Zoning Appeals

The Monroe County Board of Zoning Appeals denied a conditional use to operate a dog kennel on West Reeves Road. County Planner Drew Myers spoke of dangerous road conditions during the October 7th meeting.

Myers presented highway department findings which reported eight crashes in the area within four years. He also presented four letters of support for the business from four previous clients.

Myers said letters with concern for property access, noise, and escaped dogs were also received. Board member Bernie Guerrettaz asked Myers about sight distance requirements for the business driveway entrance.

Board members voted against the petition due to potential danger, injury, or noxious conditions for surrounding property owners.

Ellettsville Town Council

The Ellettsville Town Council discussed relocation for the Utilities Maintenance building. During their October 12th meeting, Town Manager Mike Farmer said the current building is no longer suitable.

Farmer said land near the town hall could be used for a new Utilities department structure and water tank. He questioned where the building should be placed on the land.

Community member Russell Ryle expressed concern for tree preservation. Farmer said park and trail development has been part of previous land use discussion.