Angie’s List pulls expansion project, cites passage of RFRA

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – Angie’s List CEO, Bill Oesterle, made the announcement on Saturday that the growing company will cancel its expansion project on the near east side.

Angie’s List has been working in recent weeks to secure permission and taxpayer dollars from the City-County Council to expand its corporate offices in the Ford Building at the 1300 block of East Washington Street.

Saturday, all previous expansion plans were cancelled because of the passage of the Religious Freedom Act, according to Oesterle.

“We are putting the ‘Ford Building Project’ on hold until we fully understand the implications of the freedom restoration act on our employees, both current and future,” said Angie’s List CEO Bill Oesterle.

Oesterle went on to say, “”Angie’s List is open to all and discriminates against none and we are hugely disappointed in what this bill represents.”

According to reports, the company will begin considering expansion alternatives immediately.

Indianapolis Deputy Mayor Adam Collins’ released the following statement in response to the Angie’s List announcement:

News that Angie’s List is pausing on its proposed new investment in Indianapolis is the type of reaction to RFRA that continues to create real concern in our administration. Indianapolis thrives when we embrace the contributions of our diverse business community and residents. We are committed to ensuring that all who live and work in this city continue to feel welcome here.

Mayoral candidate, Joe Hogsett, also weighed in on the decision:

I’m disappointed to hear of the potential loss of the Angie’s List expansion. It meant more than just jobs to east side neighborhoods. When key corporate and community partners like Angie’s List speak, we should listen. RFRA is already hurting Indy neighborhoods.