Josh Bain has resigned from his city-county council seat representing Decatur Township to take a new job.
The Republican accepted a position on the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission, a powerful five-member board responsible for approving or denying rate increases from utility companies.
Gov. Mike Braun, a Republican, announced Bain’s appointment Aug. 6.
“Joshua Bain brings experience in energy policy, environmental stewardship, and collaboration across government and local communities,” Braun said in a statement. “I am confident he will serve with integrity and keep affordability and the public interest at the forefront of every decision.”
Bain replaces former commissioner Andy Zay, a Republican and former state senator. Zay attracted scrutiny from Braun for voting in favor of an AES Indiana rate increase and was later fired for violating state policies.
In addition to being a councilor, Bain was also the executive director of legislative and intergovernmental affairs for the Indiana Department of Environmental Management. He also left that job.
Councilor Derek Cahill, a Republican who represents Perry Township, said Bain is “a great choice” for the IURC position. Councilor Michael-Paul Hart, a Republican on the southeast side, said Bain is “well equipped for the role.”
But not everyone is happy for Bain, who attracted criticism for maintaining a neutral stance on an unpopular data center that was ultimately approved in his district. Sabey Data Centers is constructing a hyperscale data center that will span roughly 18 football fields and use 250 megawatts — enough energy to power more than 100,000 homes.
“We know firsthand in our community that he doesn’t represent our interests or speak for his constituents, so it’s concerning that he’s given this role,” said Ashley Hooley, an organizer with Protect Decatur Township. “But I know it’s also somewhat of a relief. In a sense, we’re getting rid of him in Decatur. Unfortunately, he’s got a promotion and a higher paying salary.”
IURC members earn an annual salary of around $150,000, according to state records. Bain earned about $37,000 a year as a councilor, which is considered a part-time role.
Bain did not respond to a request for comment.
Possible successors floated
The Marion County Republican Party will hold a caucus in the next 30 days to vote on Bain’s replacement.
Hooley said she would like to see Decatur Township Trustee Jason Holliday fill the role, but Holliday told Mirror Indy he’s not interested. Holliday was Bain’s predecessor on the council.
Another name in the mix is Josh Masquelier, who serves on the Decatur Township Board and is chair of the Decatur Township GOP. Masquelier told Mirror Indy he’s planning to run for the position.
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Peter Blanchard covers local government. Reach him at 317-605-4836 or peter.blanchard@mirrorindy.org. Follow him on X @peterlblanchard.
Mirror Indy southside reporter Elizabeth Gabriel contributed reporting.
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