by

Jeff Jellison

Hamilton County Reporter

Hamilton County Judge Paul Felix has issued a decision on a court battle involving the Indiana Transportation Museum (ITM) and the City of Noblesville’s decision not to renew the museum’s lease at Forest Park.

As a part of the case, ITM had asked the court to issue a restraining order blocking a June 1, 2018 date established by Noblesville for the museum to vacate the property.

In late May, Felix conducted a hearing on the matter. On Thursday, Felix issued a ruling requiring ITM to immediately vacate Forest Park.

Felix’s ruling stated:

• The ITM is to immediately vacate the property.
• That any structures, additions, equipment or property remaining on the premises will be deemed abandoned if not removed by July 12, 2018.
• After July 12, 2018, Noblesville will be granted possession of the premises and is authorized to change the locks on the property.
• After July 12, 2018, the Sheriff is ordered to dispose of and remove ITM and all other occupants from the property at the expense of ITM.

On Friday, Noblesville released a statement regarding Felix’s ruling.

“We are thankful to Judge Paul Felix and his fair, unbiased judgement on this matter. This case was based on the lease not being renewed and setting a deadline for the removal of the Indiana Transportation Museum and its property within Forest Park, which originated from ITM suing the city. The order speaks for itself and is very clear and transparent. We are very pleased with the court’s order and believe it is the right ruling and in the public’s best interest. The property is a mess but will be restored in a safe and efficient manner. The city will continue to hold ITM responsible for any environmental issues remaining at the site.”

More information on the environmental activities within Forest Park is available at this link.