AGP Executive Report

Data Centers & Jobs: Amazon Web Services is planning a major data center campus in Wheatfield (Jasper County), with up to nine buildings on 304 acres and an estimated $7 billion investment, plus $1.25 billion to offset added electricity costs for local ratepayers. Workforce Training: Meta and ABC launched a $115 million “America’s Workforce Academy” to train data-center construction workers in Indiana and other states, with job offers tied to the program. Local Power/Heat Rules: A new Indiana law blocks utility shutoffs during extreme heat—but only for customers who qualify through the state-run LIHEAP program. Flooding Emergency: Flash flooding in Lanesville has triggered evacuations, rescues from rooftops, and blocked roads as crews respond. Elections & Voting Rights: Indiana rejected or canceled voter registrations for more than half of flagged immigrant Hoosiers under a proof-of-citizenship law, while some cases remain pending. State Politics: A recount in Indiana Senate District 23 is moving forward, with subpoena requests to be handled after the recount. Sports (Hoosier Pride): Caitlin Clark hit a late 32-foot game-winner as the Fever beat the Mystics 78-76. Healthcare: IU Health announced a strategic revenue-cycle collaboration with Ensemble to scale its financial operations. Community & Safety: The Lafayette Building fire investigation brought in the Indiana fire marshal and cadaver-trained dogs as officials work to determine a cause.

WNBA Spotlight: Caitlin Clark hit a game-winning 3-pointer with 1.2 seconds left to lift the Indiana Fever to a 78-76 road win over the Washington Mystics, finishing with 19 points, 5 assists, and a clutch finish after a rocky stretch. College Sports & Gambling: A Texas judge granted Texas Tech QB Brendan Sorsby a temporary injunction to play this fall despite an NCAA gambling ineligibility ruling, setting off fresh alarm about how gambling bans are enforced. Local Public Safety: Indiana state officials moved to shut down an unlicensed childcare operation in Goshen, where 86 children were found with only three adults on site, including infants in unsafe conditions. Roads: INDOT has started an intersection safety project on U.S. 31 and State Road 10 in the Argos area, closing the median and limiting left turns while a longer-term interchange is planned. Driver’s License Change: Indiana will let new drivers get a license on their 16th birthday starting July 1, with requirements like permits, driver ed, supervised logs, and tests still in place. Business/Jobs: Amazon Web Services is proposing a major data center campus in Wheatfield, with an estimated $7 billion investment and a plan to offset energy-cost impacts on local ratepayers.

Bears Stadium Shuffle: The Chicago Bears’ board voted to advance a multi-billion-dollar stadium project in Hammond, Indiana, even as the exact site is still being worked out—keeping the team’s Indiana push front and center after Illinois lawmakers failed to pass stadium financing. Major Tech & Power Costs: Amazon Web Services is proposing a data center campus in Wheatfield with an estimated $7 billion investment and a reported $1.25 billion payment to offset added electricity costs for local ratepayers. Courtroom Update (Hoosier Sports): Former IU QB Brendan Sorsby won a temporary injunction against the NCAA, preserving his Texas Tech eligibility for the 2026 season while he serves a two-game suspension. Local Politics: Jennings County Sheriff William “Kenny” Freeman Jr. was indicted over alleged campaign sign theft, with charges including theft, official misconduct, obstruction of justice and perjury. Online Safety: The FTC warned Hoosiers about fake CAPTCHA scams that can trick people into running commands and stealing account access. Kids Count: A new Kids Count report shows Indiana’s overall child well-being ranking slipped to 29th, with education scoring its lowest domain rank.

Data Center Watch: Amazon Web Services is planning a major data center campus in Wheatfield (Jasper County), with up to nine buildings on a 304-acre site and an estimated $7 billion investment, plus a reported $1.25 billion payment aimed at offsetting higher electricity costs for local ratepayers. Democratic Statehouse Races: Indiana Democrats at their convention in Indianapolis named Jessica Bailey as nominee for state comptroller and Coumba Kebe as nominee for state treasurer, both pitching transparency and accountability. Local Government: Butler can’t reach a deal to buy a former industrial site, putting nearly $2.4 million in READI demolition funding at risk and raising questions about the property owner’s late price demand. Sports—Hoosier Spotlight: The Indiana Fever fell to the New York Liberty 83-75 as Breanna Stewart hit 18 of 21 free throws and scored 30; Caitlin Clark added 10 points, nine assists and seven rebounds. Community & Jobs: Amazon marked the first graduating class of its Work Based Learning Program in New Carlisle, training 58 residents for data center careers. Public Safety/Service: Gibson County swore in its newest deputy, Aubrey McNeely, who starts duties June 8 after graduating Indiana State University.

Bears-to-Indiana momentum: The Chicago Bears keep moving their stadium plan forward toward Hammond, with Illinois leaders and fans reacting as the board advances the project and Gov. Braun welcomes the team. WNBA Fever fallout: Indiana Fever dropped again to the New York Liberty after a second-half collapse, while Caitlin Clark faced fresh scrutiny over fouls and offense and the team tried to put last week’s sideline drama behind them. Democratic politics: Indiana Democrats picked Beau Bayh as their secretary of state nominee, setting up a statewide race. Energy and growth: Amazon Web Services is proposing a major data center campus in Wheatfield, with a reported $1.25 billion payment aimed at offsetting energy-cost impacts on local ratepayers. Local projects: A long-awaited trail section in the Indiana Dunes area broke ground, and Portage kicked off public input for a new comprehensive plan. Health: Simone Biles said she “almost died” during a recent health scare and is recovering.

Transportation Update: INDOT says construction on a reduced conflict intersection at US 31 and State Road 10 starts June 9, with lane/median closures and right-in/right-out access changes through July. State Politics: Beau Bayh won the Democratic nomination for Indiana Secretary of State, pitching “honest government” and accountability. Public Safety & Community: Kosciusko County kicked off its first Freedom Fest weekend for America’s 250th, with Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith and AG Todd Rokita honoring veterans. Sports—High School: Bloomington North won IHSAA boys track state titles, and Westview’s Noah Bontrager defended his 1600 and 3200 crowns with state records. Sports—WNBA: The Indiana Fever fell to the New York Liberty 83-75 as Caitlin Clark struggled shooting and New York’s Breanna Stewart poured in 30. Health & Wellness: Simone Biles revealed she “almost died” after an undisclosed medical emergency, saying she’s been resting in bed. Nursing Home Watch: CMS reports Majestic Care of Bloomington in Monroe County earned a 3-star rating in Q1 with no fines or penalties.

Indiana Sports: IU’s next season looks unpredictable after a surprise-filled 2025-26, with major roster turnover and a new QB chapter under Curt Cignetti. WNBA (Hoosier fans): Caitlin Clark is listed probable with a back injury as the Fever host the Liberty in Brooklyn; Sabrina Ionescu is out with back soreness. Local Business: PNC and the Fort Wayne TinCaps named Copper Spoon and Three Rivers Electric as 2026 “Going to Bat for Small Business” winners, each getting a marketing package. Public Safety/Weather: A Severe Thunderstorm Watch covers parts of Indiana and nearby areas, with damaging winds, hail, and flash-flood risk. Politics/Justice: President Trump granted a full pardon to former Indiana Rep. Stephen Buyer, convicted in an insider trading case. Crime (Indy): A 14-year-old was charged in the fatal shooting of IU graduate Brett Scrogham in a case drawing national attention. Sports Business: The Chicago Bears board voted to advance a Hammond, Indiana stadium project, keeping the move momentum alive.

Bears Stadium Push: The Chicago Bears say their board has voted to advance plans for a new stadium in Hammond, Indiana, with the exact site still to be chosen—after Illinois lawmakers adjourned without a last-ditch stadium bill. Energy Policy: President Trump announced $700 million for building or refurbishing coal power infrastructure, including projects tied to Indiana. Sports Integrity: The NCAA ruled four former Alabama State players permanently ineligible for accepting payment tied to a 2024 game-fixing scheme. Hoosier Sports: Indiana’s Ellyse Walden won the girls shot put state title, while the Indiana Fever’s Caitlin Clark and the Dream game headlines continue to drive WNBA chatter. Public Safety: Indiana’s new law expanding protections for health care workers takes effect July 1, with tougher penalties for violence against staff. Local Numbers: Hoosier Lottery results for June 5 include Mega Millions 13-30-50-52-66 (MB 02) and Cash 5 11-20-28-37-40.

Bears Stadium Push: The Chicago Bears took another step toward leaving Chicago, with their board voting to advance a new stadium project in Hammond, Indiana, though the exact site is still “to be selected.” The move follows Illinois lawmakers failing to pass a stadium incentives plan, and Indiana Gov. Mike Braun immediately welcomed the team, framing it as a major economic opportunity for Northwest Indiana. Local Public Safety: Citizens Energy issued a precautionary boil water advisory for northwest Indianapolis after a water main break near West 56th Street and Reed Road, advising residents to boil water for 72 hours. Education & Recovery: Ivy Tech Terre Haute launched a Putnam County Recovery Scholarship, offering six $1,000 awards for Fall 2026 to help residents in recovery pursue credentials. Agriculture: Indiana Certified Crop Advisers urged soybean growers to treat foliar micronutrient applications as situational, recommending on-farm strip trials rather than expecting guaranteed yield gains. Sports & Community: Indiana Pacers entertainment team auditions are coming for the 2026-27 season, and the Fever beat the Atlanta Dream 83-71 with Caitlin Clark powering through illness.

WNBA Spotlight: Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever kicked off the Commissioner’s Cup with an 83-71 win over the Atlanta Dream, with Clark posting 17 points, 8 assists, 7 rebounds and Kelsey Mitchell scoring 25 as Indiana improved to 5-4. State Politics: Sen. Chris Garten resigned as Indiana Senate majority floor leader, setting up a potential GOP leadership fight this fall. Public Safety & Accountability: Indy police chief says parents could face charges if kids commit violence, after a 14-year-old was arrested in a downtown Indianapolis killing. Health in Indiana: A new report ranks Indiana 35th for senior health, citing lower scores on obesity, physical inactivity and early deaths. Education & Local Pride: Kokomo Area Career Center students unveiled a sculpture at the fire department, and North Putnam principal Bucky Kramer was named District 8 Principal of the Year. Sports Notes: Jasper topped Sullivan in IHSAA regional girls tennis, and Gibson Southern won its sectional baseball title 3-2 over Southridge.

Local Sports Leadership: Former FSU and NFL linebacker James “Buster” Davis was named Columbus North’s new head coach, taking over after a 4-6 season. NCAA & Career Development: Anderson University student-athlete Josiah Marshall received the inaugural NCAA Trailblazer Award in Indianapolis. IndyCar & Indiana Racing Culture: Christian Rasmussen signed a multiyear extension with Ed Carpenter Racing, and Lando Norris weighed whether he’d ever tackle the Indy 500. Public Safety Alerts: A statewide Silver Alert was issued for missing 17-year-old Timothy Moore from Hagerstown; police say he may be in extreme danger. Weather & Health: IDEM declared an Air Quality Action Day statewide due to ozone in the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups range. State & Local Economy: Gov. Mike Braun announced Capital Group will expand in Carmel, adding up to 200 jobs by 2028. Community & Services: Indiana residents can fish license-free during Free Fishing Weekend June 6-7, with all other fishing rules still in effect.

Indiana Driver’s License Change: Gov. Mike Braun signed a new law lowering the driver’s license age to 16, letting teens get licenses on their birthdays (with the state also extending gas-tax relief). Big Tech, Local Impact: Amazon is planning a major data center campus in Wheatfield, with talks tied to nearby power infrastructure and a reported $1.25B payment to offset energy-cost impacts for local payers. Public Safety & Health: Indiana FSSA announced a moratorium on new ABA provider agency enrollments, while Indianapolis Public Schools will transfer unused properties to Habitat for Humanity to build up to 16 homes for affordable ownership. Community Spotlight: Garfield Park Historic Fountains reopen June 6 after a $5.5M restoration, and Common Ground at Faith is building a permanent Eastside “one-stop” services hub. Sports & Culture: Indiana Fever fallout over Caitlin Clark coverage and sideline tensions continues, and Curt Cignetti lands on the cover of EA College Football 27’s Deluxe edition.

WNBA Drama in Indiana: Caitlin Clark and Fever coach Stephanie White say they’ve “turned the page” after a sideline incident, with Sophie Cunningham describing a long team meeting meant to reset after back-to-back losses. Media Access Fight: The Fever revoked reporter Scott Agness’ credentials over claims tied to Clark’s May injury reporting, drawing a sharp response from the Pro Basketball Writers Association. Public Safety & Health: Indiana’s gas tax holiday is extended again—Braun suspends the 7% usage tax and excise tax through July 7, keeping Indiana’s pump prices among the lowest. Local Impact: Crews are replacing thousands of lead service lines in Indianapolis’ Near Northwest Riverside neighborhood. Crime & Courts: A Jackson County man was arrested for allegedly selling counterfeit silver bars in a scheme topping $38,000. Sports Watch: Pacers host local prospects Braden Smith and Sam Alexis for pre-draft workouts. Animal Incident: Two Michigan City Zoo animal care workers were attacked by wolves after a wolf died naturally; both were taken to hospitals.

Weather: Central Indiana is set for a warm, sunny stretch midweek through Friday, with highs in the lower 80s and muggy conditions building by the weekend, plus a chance of showers and storms. Business & Jobs: A Holiday City, Indiana plastics supplier—20/20 Custom Molded Plastics—won a Yamaha Supplier Award for quality and on-time delivery, highlighting local manufacturing strength. Public Safety: NIPSCO is urging Hoosiers not to DIY electrical or natural gas work during National Safety Month, warning that improper installs can create serious hazards. Local Housing: Indianapolis City-County Council backed two affordable housing projects, but developers still need state approval for Low Income Housing Tax Credits before construction can move forward. Courts & Safety: Court records say a southern Indiana man charged in a child exploitation case is a federal immigration employee, with bond set at $500,000. Sports (Hoosier focus): The Indiana Fever host the Atlanta Dream Thursday after a sideline spat was followed by a team meeting meant to “turn the page.”

Mental Health & Libraries: MolinaCares awarded a $50,000 grant to Mental Health America of Indiana to train library staff statewide through the Indiana Library Federation, aiming for earlier help before crises. Public Health Data: Indiana’s infant mortality rate stayed at a record low in 2025 at 6.3 deaths per 1,000 live births, with preliminary state numbers showing little change from 2024. Local Government: Ligonier’s public safety director, Bryan Shearer, was elected by Republican caucus to replace retiring Mayor Earl Franklin, with a swearing-in set for Aug. 31. Road & Traffic Alerts: INDOT announced upcoming I-70 eastbound lane and ramp closures in downtown Indianapolis (June 5-8) plus other planned road closures in Warrick County and Evansville-area pavement work. Sports (Colts): The Indianapolis Colts signed their entire 2026 draft class, including rookie deals for Jalen Farmer and Bryce Boettcher. WNBA Fever: Coach Stephanie White played down claims of a rift with Caitlin Clark after a heated on-court exchange during a loss to Portland.

Indiana Politics & Community Trust: Indiana Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith is facing fresh backlash after remarks on a Christian web show calling Islam a “demonic death cult” and saying Americans should get “permission to hate again,” with the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community USA urging him to retract and meet with Muslim constituents. Local Governance: New Chicago, Indiana leaders voted to terminate police chief Earl Mayo after he was arrested and charged in connection with allegedly selling a gun that was evidence to a pawn shop. Sports (Hoosier Spotlight): Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever are trying to shake off a rough stretch as Clark is listed “available” for Friday’s game after sitting out Wednesday, while Clark and coach Stephanie White both played down a viral sideline exchange as competitive coaching, not a rift. Roads & Taxes: Indianapolis City-County Council advanced a road funding proposal that would raise the wheel tax and vehicle excise surtax, with supporters citing state matching funds for repairs. Safety Reminder: NIPSCO urged Hoosiers not to DIY electrical or natural gas projects during National Safety Month. Baseball & Beyond: Central Catholic won its sectional title over North Montgomery, and Bloomfield’s Bo Busenburg earned a state-meet berth with a third-place long jump.