HERE WE GROW AGAIN – HOW CENTRAL INDIANA’S FAST-GROWING COMMUNITIES ARE PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE
Join ICR on August 13 for a panel discussion exploring the opportunities and challenges facing the next wave of fast-growing communities in Central Indiana. As Indiana continues to lead the nation in job growth, more businesses and families are choosing to call the state home, creating unprecedented opportunities for community development and investment.
With growth comes the need for thoughtful planning. Panelists will discuss how communities are addressing critical issues such as transportation and infrastructure, housing demand, downtown development, population growth, funding priorities, and long-term community vision. Learn how local leaders are preparing for the future while preserving the qualities that make their communities attractive places to live, work, and invest.
Panelists include:
- Janell Fairman – City of Westfield
- Jennifer Miller – Town of Sheridan
- Dax Norton – Town of Bargersville
- Moderator: Lourenzo Giple, Assoc. AIA, NOMA – SME
Schedule
- 7:30am-8:00am – Registration/Networking
- 8:00am-9:30am – Formal Program
- 9:30am-10:00am – Networking
About Our Panelists
Jenell Fairman, PE, City of Westfield
Jenell Fairman serves as Executive Chief of Economic and Community Development for the City of Westfield, where she leads the integration of economic development and community planning efforts to support the city’s long-term growth and vision. In this role, she is responsible for advancing strategic initiatives, guiding redevelopment efforts, and aligning public-private partnerships to deliver impactful, community-centered outcomes.
With more than 25 years of experience in commercial real estate and capital projects valued up to $500 million, Jenell brings extensive expertise in project development, infrastructure planning, and deal structuring. She has played a central role in shaping Westfield’s next phase of growth, including the development of new districts, downtown redevelopment planning, and the expansion of the Grand Park area into a mixed-use destination.
A licensed Professional Engineer and graduate of Purdue University, Jenell is known for her collaborative approach and focus on quality, sustainability, and community connectivity. Her leadership continues to support Westfield’s transition and long-term vision as one of Indiana’s fastest-growing communities.
Jennifer Miller, Town of Sheridan
Jennifer Miller serves as Director of Planning and Zoning for the Town of Sheridan, where she leads land use planning, zoning administration, and long-range development initiatives that support the town’s growth while preserving its character. In this role, she works closely with community leaders, residents, and stakeholders to guide thoughtful development and implement policies that position Sheridan for sustainable success.
With a background in urban planning and economic development, Jennifer brings experience across both municipal and nonprofit sectors, including leadership roles focused on community development, housing initiatives, and operational management. She has played a key role in Sheridan’s recent reorganization efforts, contributing to infrastructure planning, development standards, and the advancement of the town’s Comprehensive and Thoroughfare Plan.
Jennifer is known for her collaborative approach and strong commitment to community engagement. Her work continues to support Sheridan’s momentum as it invests in downtown revitalization, trail connectivity, and strategic growth initiatives across northern Hamilton County.
Dax Norton, Town of Bargersville
Dax Norton serves as Town Manager for the Town of Bargersville, where he oversees daily operations, municipal services, and strategic initiatives in support of the Town Council’s policy direction. In this role, he manages town projects and infrastructure, develops budget recommendations, and supports economic development and long-range planning efforts.
With more than 20 years of experience in economic development and municipal leadership, Dax has held executive roles in both public sector and consulting environments. His work has included managing multimillion-dollar budgets, advancing infrastructure initiatives, and supporting community growth through development and redevelopment projects.
Prior to his role in Bargersville, Dax served as Town Manager for the Town of Whitestown and as a consultant focused on economic development and municipal operations. His experience continues to support Bargersville’s ongoing development, including downtown investment and infrastructure improvements.
Moderator: Lourenzo Giple, Assoc. AIA, NOMA, SME
Lourenzo Giple serves as Client Relationship Leader at SME, where he works with municipalities, agencies, and industry partners to support development initiatives and advance projects from concept through implementation. His work focuses on aligning planning, funding, and stakeholder priorities to support community and infrastructure development.
Lourenzo’s background spans architecture, urban design, and public-sector leadership. He previously served as Deputy Director of Planning, Preservation, and Urban Design for the City of Indianapolis, where he led planning initiatives, development review, and preservation efforts across the city. His experience includes collaboration on projects related to land use, redevelopment, and long-term planning.
In addition to his professional role, Lourenzo has served as an Adjunct Professor at Ball State University. He holds graduate degrees in architecture and urban design from Ball State and remains involved in efforts related to planning and community development across Indiana.