Dubois Strong, IncCodes Partner to Modernize County Zoning Codes

Dubois Strong Economic Development Corporation has partnered with IncCodes, a nationally recognized zoning and land-use consulting firm, to undertake a comprehensive review and modernization of development codes across Dubois County, with Jasper, Huntingburg, and Ferdinand serving as the initial focus municipalities.

The project follows a three-phase structure. The first phase centers on a comprehensive audit of current zoning ordinances and planning documents to identify conflicts with community goals and barriers to redevelopment. Once that foundational work is completed in the three initial municipalities, the same principles and updated standards are intended to be applied to other communities throughout the county.

Dubois Strong Executive Director Colten Pipenger framed the effort as both a housing and economic competitiveness priority. "Housing availability and development predictability are essential to workforce growth and economic competitiveness," Pipenger said. "This partnership allows us to evaluate our zoning frameworks and identify practical improvements that support additional housing options while respecting community character."

A central aim of the initiative is reducing regulatory barriers that limit infill development and so-called "missing middle" housing, a category that includes duplexes, triplexes, townhomes, and small multiplexes that typically fall between single-family homes and large apartment buildings. The project also targets clearer development standards, preservation of existing housing stock, and the opening of new residential lots, all strategies drawn directly from the 2023 Dubois County Housing Study.

Huntingburg Mayor Neil Elkins expressed support for the review, saying the process would help align city policy with long-term goals. "Working with Dubois Strong and IncCodes gives us an opportunity to review our development standards and ensure they support future housing and investment while maintaining the character of our community," Elkins said.

A source identified only by the last name Vonderheide, also quoted in connection with the project, offered a community-centered rationale: "Updating our development codes will make it easier for small-scale projects, new housing and local investment to strengthen our neighborhoods, downtown and community."

Funding for the project comes from three sources: Grow Dubois County, the Dubois County Community Foundation, and the Regional Opportunities Initiative. No specific dollar amounts have been publicly disclosed. Dubois Strong said it will continue coordinating with local government partners, planning staff, and community stakeholders as the work advances.

Additional information about the project is available at duboisstrong.com/InCodes.