Submitted by Town of Sheridan
The Town of Sheridan proudly marks the successful completion of its first year of reorganization, a transformative effort that has strengthened community ties, improved services, and positioned Sheridan for sustainable growth.
A year of milestones
What began with uncertainty quickly evolved into a celebration of the Monon Trail, highlighted by a ribbon-cutting ceremony, gave Sheridan a new centerpiece through downtown. Local businesses thrived with RDC-funded façade improvements, while families enjoyed new playground equipment at the Community Center Park. These achievements symbolize unity and shared purpose.
Overcoming challenges together
Road management and snow removal emerged as the year’s biggest challenge. Sheridan responded decisively by contracting rural services and equipping the Public Works team to repair several miles of roads. These efforts turned potential setbacks into proof of the town’s resilience and teamwork.
Building trust & engagement
Initial skepticism about the merger gave way to growing confidence. Transparent communication, clear roads, and increased Town Council attendance demonstrated Sheridan’s commitment to involving residents in shaping the future. Department head meetings twice a month fostered collaboration and quick problem-solving.
Planning for growth
Sheridan adopted Hamilton County’s Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) for areas not previously covered, ensuring consistency and preventing unintended property-use changes. The upcoming Comprehensive and Thoroughfare Plan, expected in March, will provide a roadmap for balanced growth that preserves Sheridan’s character.
Public works reorganization
Over the past year, the Town of Sheridan has made significant progress integrating former township roads and infrastructure into the Town’s Public Works system. This reorganization expanded the Town’s responsibilities and laid the groundwork for long-term improvements.
Expanded roadway system
As a result of the merger, the Town added approximately 100 centerline miles of roadway to its inventory. This expansion required a comprehensive review of road conditions, signage, drainage, and safety features across the areas.
Comprehensive mapping & asset inventory
Public Works completed detailed field mapping and GIS inventory to better understand and manage the expanded infrastructure. This included:
- 316 culverts documented with condition ratings, measurements, and photos.
- 2,173 traffic signs identified and photographed
- 17,919 feet of guardrail evaluated for material, condition and length.
- 96 stormwater structures located and recorded
- Approximately 133 miles of street-level imagery, now available through Google Maps.
This information allows staff to track assets, plan maintenance, and prioritize future investments more effectively.
Service levels & community response
Despite the increase in infrastructure, the Town successfully maintained service levels throughout 2025. Snow removal, pothole repair, and general maintenance continued without interruption, and feedback from residents has been largely positive.
Equipment & staffing
To support the expanding system, the Town invested in critical equipment, including:
- Two new 750-series dump trucks
- A pothole patching machine
- A hotbox for asphalt repairs
While staffing and budget needs have increased, no equipment or crews were absorbed from the township, as those resources were not previously in place.
Looking ahead to 2026
In the coming year, the Town plans to:
- Add staff to better address maintenance needs;
- Advance a major funding project for 236th Street;
- Continue work on the State Road 47 reconstruction project;
- Invest $800,000 in Community Crossings grant funds for town road repairs; and
- Allocate $160,000 in local funding for a rural road chip-and-seal program
Moving forward
The first year of reorganization focused on maintaining services and building a strong foundation. With better data, new equipment, and clear priorities, Sheridan is positioned to continue improving safety, service, and road conditions for the entire community.
Police Department transformation
The reorganization also strengthened public safety. With the increase in road coverage, calls for service surged from 3,650 in 2024 to 5,926 in 2025, a 62 percent increase, while arrest rose from 79 to 192, a 143 percent increase. These improvements reflect optimized staffing, streamlined workflows, and enhanced training, creating a foundation for sustainable service delivery.
Why these changes matter
The reorganization was not just about restructuring; it was about creating a foundation for sustainable growth and improved service delivery. By optimizing staffing, refining workflows, and investing in training, the department is now better equipped to respond to the community’s needs. The increase in calls and arrests demonstrates that these changes are making a tangible difference.
As we move forward, the department remains committed to continuous improvement. The lessons learned from this reorganization will guide future initiatives aimed at strengthening public safety and fostering community trust. Our goal is to ensure that every resident feels secure and supported, and the results from 2025 show we are on the right path.
Looking ahead
As Sheridan enters year two, the town is preparing diligently to welcome new opportunities while safeguarding the values that define its community. From trails and playgrounds to roads and zoning codes, Sheridan’s first year or reorganization proves one thing: this is a community that works together, adapts to challenges, and looks confidently toward the future.
