Public Meetings - Bloomington, Indiana

The Bloomington Common Council held its regular session on January 15, 2026, addressing a resolution on community development block grant (CDBG) funding, three ordinances (salary, two UDO amendments), and multiple public comments. All votes taken were unanimous (8-0). The meeting also included reports, committee appointments, and discussions on affordable housing incentives and transparency. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from September 3, September 17, and September 24, 2025, by voice vote. - Appointed Catherine Tiamoa, Cameron Greer, and Eddie Rue to the Jack Hopkins Social Service Grants citizen committee. - Adjusted committee chair appointments: Councilmember Piedmont Smith to chair the Budget Committee; Councilmember Stasberg to chair the Special Processes Committee. Public Comments & Testimony - Kevin Keo (lifelong resident, IT auditor) expressed concern about delayed release of the city's FY2024 annual comprehensive financial report (due Sept 30, 2025, still not public) and about reliance on Placer.ai data for policy decisions without reproducible records. He urged transparency and record preservation. - Terry Amsler (former CAC member) spoke during the CDBG hearing, noting the erosion of funding levels and the need for improved public engagement and participation in city processes. - Christopher MG (Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce) commented on Ordinance 2026-01, supporting the mayor's proposed amendment regarding deed restrictions for owner-occupied affordable housing, emphasizing flexibility and reducing complexity in development. - Steve Volan (via online) memorialized Lee Williams, co-founder of the Lotus World Music and Arts Festival, during the second public comment period. Discussion Items - Resolution 2026-02 – CDBG Funding 2026 - Anna Killian Hansen (Director of Housing and Neighborhood Development) presented the $778,293 estimated allocation breakdown: 20% administration ($155,658.60), 15% social services ($116,743.95), 65% physical improvements ($505,890.45). - Physical improvement projects included: Boys & Girls Club (gym/security, $127,580), Life Designs (group home flooring, $19,420), Middleway House (fire panel, $11,334), Reverend Butler (playground/courtyard, allocated but not specified), My Sister's Closet (renovations, $144,556.45). - Social service projects included: Community Kitchen ($25,000), Beacon Inc. ($20,000), Hoosier Hills Food Bank ($20,000), Boys & Girls Club ($18,000), New Hope for Families ($18,000), Middleway House ($15,744). - Contingency language for over/under funding was detailed. Council members discussed declining federal CDBG funding (from $20B in 1980s to $3.3B now) and the need to supplement with local resources like Jack Hopkins funds. - Ordinance 2026-03 – Salary Ordinance Amendments - Dr. Pitchak presented amendments aligning with the newly negotiated AFsME agreement (passed 8-2 in December). Changes include administrative cleanup, grade designation updates, enhanced step progression for faster pay increases, increased premiums/allowances (on-call pay, tool/clothing allowances, shift premiums), CDL incentives, and a new relocation incentive for hard-to-fill positions. A cap at step 3 for Grade 14 department heads was included. - Ordinance 2026-02 – UDO Amendment (Response to Resolution 2025-17) - Jackie Scanlon (Assistant Director of Planning & Transportation) presented three changes: (1) Reduce AMI eligibility for tier one to 90% and tier two to 70% (with whole percentages), (2) Revise PUD qualifying standards to match tier one affordability requirements, (3) Eliminate the definition of “workforce housing” as unused. Plan Commission voted positively on November 10, 2025. - Ordinance 2026-01 – UDO Amendment (Response to Resolution 2025-12) - Jackie Scanlon presented changes to affordable housing incentives: (1) Increase maximum impervious surface coverage to 80% for single-family detached and duplex lots in R1-R4 districts (owner-occupancy projects), (2) For tier-two projects, allow a 10% increase in impervious surface and a 10% decrease in landscape area, (3) Increase payment-in-lieu amounts from $30,000 to $50,000 per unit (with $5,000 extra per bedroom over 3 for 4-5 bedroom units) and raise the eligible unit calculation from 20% to 30% of total dwelling units. - Mayor Thompson proposed a later amendment to address deed restriction issues for owner-occupied units, which would require flexibility to avoid mortgage lending problems. The proposal was not yet drafted. Council agreed to postpone the ordinance for further review. Key Outcomes - Resolution 2026-02 adopted (8-0). - Ordinance 2026-03 adopted (8-0). - Ordinance 2026-02 adopted (8-0). - Ordinance 2026-01 postponed to February 4, 2026, following a motion by Councilmember Rallo (8-0), to allow time for review of the mayor's proposed amendment and legal questions. - All votes on substantive legislation were unanimous (8-0).

The Bloomington Common Council held its annual organizational meeting on January 8, 2026 (the meeting was called to order at 6:30 PM on January 7, 2026 per the transcript). The agenda included election of officers, committee assignments, appointments to boards and commissions, first readings of three ordinances, and adoption of a resolution updating the Jack Hopkins Social Services Funding Committee. The meeting began with a tribute to the late Perry Township Trustee Dan Combs, who served for nearly 40 years. Tribute to Dan Combs - Councilmembers shared memories and condolences for Dan Combs, who passed away that week. He served as Perry Township Trustee since 1986. A moment of silence was observed. Councilmember Reports - Councilmember Flaherty thanked outgoing leadership (Stasberg, Piedmont Smith, Daly). - Councilmember Rahlow recalled his early interactions with Dan Combs as a reporter. - Councilmember Piedmont Smith delivered a lengthy statement marking the fifth anniversary of the January 6, 2021 insurrection, criticizing President Donald Trump and his administration for alleged violations of the U.S. Constitution and international law, including actions in Venezuela and by ICE. - Councilmember Daly announced she will hold constituent meetings by appointment via a public calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - Jeremy (Chamber of Commerce) presented the Chamber's 2026 legislative priorities: housing availability and affordability, workforce participation and readiness (child care, transportation, cost of living), community safety and public order, and predictability of city services and processes. He urged continued collaboration. - Kevin Keogh (Bloomington resident, retired accountant) spoke during the additional public comment period about the timeliness of the city's Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR). He noted the 2024 ACFR had not been published by its December 31, 2025 deadline, and requested that future ACFRs be completed before the start of the budget cycle (by August 1). He cited the city of Fishers, Indiana as a peer completing its ACFR by July 31. Election of Officers - Councilmember Stasberg nominated Councilmember Asari for President, Councilmember Zulik for Vice President, and Councilmember Daly for Parliamentarian. The nomination was seconded and approved by voice vote (no opposition or abstentions noted). - Each nominee briefly described their vision: Asari emphasized smooth meetings, minority views, and internal communication; Zulik focused on supporting the president and centering the people of Bloomington; Daly highlighted maintaining consistency and fairness after a year of experience. - Councilmember Stasberg presented a ceremonial gavel to outgoing President Asari. - Seating arrangements were adjusted per the new President's assignment. Committee Assignments - President Asari announced committee assignments: - Jack Hopkins Social Services Funding Committee: Councilmembers Daly (Chair), Ruff, Rahlow, and Asari. - Committee on Council Processes: Councilmembers Piedmont Smith (Chair), Stasberg, Zulik, Daly. - Sidewalk Committee: Councilmembers Rosenbarger (Chair), Ruff, Zulik, Daly. - Fiscal Committee: Councilmembers Piedmont Smith (Chair), Flaherty, Rahlow, Stasberg. - Interview Committee A: Asari (Chair), Rosenbarger, Stasberg. - Interview Committee B: Ruff (Chair), Daly, Flaherty (after a substitution to align liaisons). - Interview Committee C: Zulik (Chair), Rahlow, Piedmont Smith. - All assignments were approved through a single voice vote. Appointments to Boards and Commissions - The council approved a slate of appointments: - Bloomington Economic Development Corporation (BEDC): Councilmember Asari (one-year term). - Downtown Bloomington Inc.: Councilmember Zulik (one-year term). - Economic Development Commission (City): Councilmember Asari (four-year term). - Transportation Commission: Councilmember Flaherty reappointed. - Metropolitan Planning Organization: Councilmember Stasberg reappointed as delegate. - CDBG Advisory Committee: Councilmember Daly (social services) and Councilmember Rosenbarger (physical improvements). - Food and Beverage Tax Advisory Committee: Councilmember Zulik reappointed. - PS Lit Committee: Councilmembers Daly, Piedmont Smith, Rahlow, and Ruff appointed. - Utility Services Board: Councilmember Flaherty reappointed. - Project 46 Advisory Committee: Councilmember Stasberg appointed (after Flaherty stepped down due to scheduling conflicts). - Commission on Sustainability: Councilmember Rahlow reappointed. - Environmental Resources Advisory Council: Councilmember Ruff reappointed. - City's Internal Climate Action Team: Councilmember Piedmont Smith appointed (replacing Flaherty). - All appointments were approved by voice vote. Discussion Items - First Readings of Ordinances: Three ordinances were introduced by title and synopsis only: 1. Ordinance 2026-01: Amends Title 20 (Unified Development Ordinance) regarding affordable housing incentives and payment-in-lieu provisions. Increases maximum impervious surface coverage for owner-occupied projects using incentives, adjusts coverage for tier two affordability, and raises payment-in-lieu amounts. 2. Ordinance 2026-02: Amends Title 20 to reduce area median income eligibility for incentives, revise PUD qualifying standards, and eliminate the definition of "workforce housing." 3. Ordinance 2026-03: Amends Ordinance 2025-40 to align appointed officer and AFSCME employee salaries with the approved 2026 labor agreement. - All three ordinances were approved for first reading by voice vote and will proceed to second reading. - Resolution 2026-01 (Jack Hopkins Social Services Funding Committee): Sponsored by Councilmember Stasberg. This resolution consolidates scattered documentation about the committee's membership and funding conditions into one resolution. It changes the appointment of resident members from sole chair responsibility to council-wide approval, to better handle conflict-of-interest paperwork. It also clarifies term dates. Councilmember Daly, the incoming chair, expressed support and noted she would bring appointment recommendations to the full council next week. After discussion, the resolution passed unanimously (9-0 on roll call). Key Outcomes - Council elected Asari as President, Zulik as Vice President, and Daly as Parliamentarian for 2026. - Committee assignments and appointments to boards/commissions were approved, including changes to adapt to member availability. - Three ordinances received first reading and will be considered at future meetings. - Resolution 2026-01 was adopted 9-0, updating the Jack Hopkins committee's membership and funding procedures. - The next regular meeting was noted for the following week; interview committees were reminded to schedule meetings for upcoming appointments. The meeting was adjourned.

The Board of Zoning Appeals met on December 19, 2025, to consider four petitions: two conditional use applications for duplex conversions, one variance request for tree-related standards at a large redevelopment site, and one variance request from the Parks Department for trail access. The board also denied continuances for two long-pending petitions. All decisions were unanimous (5-0). Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The minutes from the previous meeting were approved unanimously. - Agenda Reordering: A motion to hear V-42-25 (Graystar) third, after CU-54-25 and CU-56-25, was approved. - Continuations: Two petitions (AA-17-22 Joe Kent Construction and CU-33-24 Hat Reynolds LLC) were continued to the January 22, 2026 meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - CU-54-25 (Charlie Jos Jesse): Neighbors Bill Bows, Tom Flynn, Jude Flynn, and Tom Payne (president of Near West Side Neighborhood Association) expressed concerns about limited street parking, potential traffic, and the feasibility of rear alley access. They noted that the existing five-bedroom house already generated parking issues and that a rear driveway would require easements from adjacent owners. The petitioner acknowledged the concerns and indicated openness to a wider front driveway if needed. - V-42-25 (Graystar Development): Several speakers opposed the variances. Bill Bows (Near West Side Neighborhood Association) called the off-site tree planting a "scam" and argued that traffic on Fairview Street was a serious issue. Shashi Rodanishkar (neighbor) emphasized traffic congestion and safety concerns, noting that ambulances cannot pass. Vasily Kitzizzopulum criticized the project's scale and the developer's legal record. Tim Dwyer (resident) supported the variances, citing the need for housing and the public benefit of the multi-use trail connection. - CU-56-25 and V-57-25: No public comments were made. Discussion Items - CU-54-25 (1119 W 8th St): Staff recommended approval with conditions, including a one-for-one street tree replacement and rental inspections. The petitioner explained that the large house is being converted into a two-unit duplex with three bedrooms each, adding one parking space via a front driveway. The board discussed the parking deficiency and the possibility of a wider driveway. The board approved the petition (5-0). - CU-56-25 (Clark & 5th St): Staff recommended approval for a new duplex on a corner lot, with five conditions including coordination with the city for alley access and trash storage. The petitioner clarified that trash bins would be stored near the carport. No public comment was received. The board approved (5-0). - V-42-25 (503 N Rogers St): Staff presented three variances related to tree preservation and planting. The petitioner proposed to remove 1.09 acres of existing wooded area and plant 93 trees on-site plus 143 large canopy trees off-site via a memorandum of understanding with the city. Staff argued that the site's size and constraints (utilities, detention, fire lanes) made strict compliance impractical. The board noted the project's housing benefits and the public trail connection. After public comment, the board approved all three variances with conditions (5-0). - V-57-25 (Browns Woods): Staff recommended approval for a temporary access road and permanent hiking trail, requiring variances from riparian buffer, steep slope, karst, and easement standards. The Parks Department cited public safety concerns from an abandoned encampment. The board noted the minimal disturbance and restoration plan, and approved the variances (5-0). Key Outcomes - CU-54-25: Approved (5-0) with conditions including street tree replacement and rental permit. - CU-56-25: Approved (5-0) with five conditions, including alley access coordination. - V-42-25: Approved (5-0) with three conditions: (1) multi-use trail connection, (2) off-site tree planting via MOU, (3) street trees as shown on plan. - V-57-25: Approved (5-0) with conditions to restore disturbed areas and protect environmental features. - Continuances Denied: The board denied further continuances for AA-17-22 and CU-33-24 (both continued for over 12 months). Petitioners have 24 hours to withdraw or must appear at the January 22, 2026 meeting. The board noted that a future request to hear them within six months could be granted by unanimous vote.

The Bloomington Common Council held its final regular session of 2025 on December 19, 2025. The meeting included council member reports, a presentation on housing attainability, public comments, and action on several ordinances and a resolution. Key votes included approval of towing fee updates, a collective bargaining agreement, a historic district designation, and a voluntary annexation. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The council unanimously approved minutes from four budget hearings held on August 18, 20, 25, and 27, 2025. Voice vote passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - First Period (Non‑Agenda Items): - Chris Remjee (Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce) thanked the council for work on outcome‑based budgeting and deliberation sessions, expressing confidence in the city's future. - Paul Rousseau requested that the council double snow removal fines (currently $50 for first violation) and criticized oversized student housing developments, arguing growth is harming Bloomington. - On Towing Ordinances: Multiple towing company representatives spoke in support of the $25 administrative fee amendments, citing administrative burdens and state audit requirements. Residents near the proposed annexation property (2005 West Cory Drive) voiced concerns about stormwater, karst geology, and infrastructure, urging denial. - On Ivan Adams House Historic District: Owners and historic preservation advocates spoke in favor, highlighting stone carver Ivan Adams's legacy. Discussion Items - Council Member Reports: - Rosenbarger reported on the College Square property owned by the RDC, noting potential for a hotel, housing, and affordable housing. - Flaherty discussed the RDC vote not to give away a $7 million property for a hotel subsidy, calling it a win for taxpayers; expressed concerns about trust and requested future collaboration. - Ruff thanked council leadership and praised the Indiana Senate for rejecting a redistricting power play. - Piedmont Smith criticized the Trump administration for unconstitutional war powers in military operations against drug cartels. - Stasberg announced plans to change constituent meeting format to one‑on‑one appointments and urged colleagues to preserve January evenings for interview committees. - Housing Attainability Update (David Hittle, Planning Director): - Presented a year‑end update on UDO amendments to increase access to attainable housing, focusing on missing middle types: cottage developments, duplexes, triplexes, accessory dwelling units, and administrative lot splits. - Noted that 5,000 acres of residential land are zoned single‑family only; 200 acres allow duplexes; 1,400 acres allow multifamily. - Discussed short‑term rentals (400 whole‑house listings), off‑campus student housing pressures, and the need to balance infill with neighborhood character. - Council members questioned about student housing stigma and process for incorporating council ideas; Hittle committed to providing written clarity and seeking council input by March. - Committee on Council Processes (Piedmont Smith): Reported on four proposals: moving board provisions, allowing discussion at first reading, introducing a consent agenda, and requiring a council sponsor for each legislation item. Key Outcomes - Ordinance 2025‑19 (Title 15 – Towing) – Third reading: - Amendment 4 (Stasberg) adopted 9‑0: restored 24‑hour storage fee trigger, defined business hours via police contract. - Amendment 5 (Ruff) adopted 5‑4: added a $25 administrative fee for city‑initiated tows. - Ordinance as amended adopted 8‑1. - Ordinance 2025‑20 (Non‑Consensual Towing) – Second reading: - Amendment 3 (Stasberg) adopted 9‑0 after amendment to extend signage compliance deadline to July 1, 2028. - Amendment 4 (Ruff) adopted 6‑3: added $25 administrative fee. - Ordinance as amended adopted 9‑0. - Resolution 2025‑21 (AFSCME Collective Bargaining Agreement): Adopted 9‑0. The agreement covers 2026–2028, is fully funded in the 2026 budget, includes salary increases and improved tenure steps (midpoint reached in 5 years instead of 25). - Ordinance 2025‑47 (Ivan Adams House Historic District): Adopted 6‑3 following debate on historical significance vs. architectural merit. - Ordinance 2025‑43 (Voluntary Annexation – 2005 West Cory Drive): Adopted 6‑3 after discussion of environmental concerns, infrastructure, and pending litigation. - Ordinance 2025‑46 (Zoning Map Amendment for same property): Amendment to correct petitioner name adopted 8‑0; ordinance as amended adopted 7‑2 to zone the annexed parcel as R2 (Residential Medium Lot).

This special session, called by Mayor Thompson on December 16, 2025, presented the proposed Planned Unit Development (PUD) for Hopewell South, a 24-acre redevelopment site on the former hospital campus. The session included framing remarks by the Mayor, a zoning overview by Planning Director David Hiddle, and a detailed presentation by Alison Flintlock of Flintlock Labs on the housing catalog, site plan, and affordability strategy. Council members then questioned the presenters, raising concerns about the use of a PUD versus zoning district changes, housing mix, pricing, developer training, and infrastructure details. No votes were taken. Discussion Items - Mayor Thompson's opening remarks: Emphasized the goal of attainable housing for young professionals and other demographics. Noted that the PUD includes preservation of the old convalescent center at 714 South Rogers, a potential future police station. Stated that a good number of homes would be affordable at 80% or below Area Median Income (AMI) without heavy government red tape. - Planning Director David Hiddle's remarks: Explained that a PUD is used because no existing zoning district allows the proposed mixture of uses and development standards. Reviewed the history of planning for Hopewell, including the 2021 Master Plan and the Transform Redevelopment Overlay (TRO). Noted the PUD will go to the Plan Commission on January 12, 2026, and then to City Council. - Alison Flintlock's presentation: Detailed the “Home Catalog” approach, which includes pre-approved, buildable house plans to streamline permitting. Showed site plans for three blocks (Blocks 8, 9, 10), with a mix of unit types from studio micro-units to three-bedroom family homes. Emphasized that under current R4 zoning only 28 lots could be created; the PUD allows 98 units with smaller lots and narrower streets. Reported average home price at $270,000 (down 40% from R4 baseline), with units ranging from $83,000 (affordable at 35% AMI) to $650,000 (affordable under 200% AMI). Stated that 71% of units (70 out of 98) are estimated to be affordable by federal definitions (≤30% of income on housing). - Council member questions and concerns: - Councilmember Flarity asked about price points and whether the land would be given to developers. Mayor Thompson clarified land is not intended to be free; down payment assistance may be provided for qualified buyers. - Councilmember Rowlow requested a detailed breakdown of units by price, noting concern about the high end of the range. Flintlock committed to providing a detailed spreadsheet. - Councilmember Clarity questioned why a PUD was used instead of amending the TRO overlay or creating a new zoning district. Flintlock cited custom street sections, minimum lot sizes, and the ability to test code changes as reasons; Councilmember Clarity expressed skepticism about PUDs' long-term administration and preferred a zoning district approach. - Councilmember Siefker raised practical issues: trash collection logistics, perpendicular parking on Jackson Street, and reliance on the former hospital building becoming a police station. Flintlock explained trash plans, that the parking spaces are intended for police use, and that Block 8 (police block) is flexible and conceptual. - Councilmember Flarity asked about demand signals for the housing mix. Flintlock explained the mix aligns with Bloomington household demographics and includes accessible units to meet city standards. - Councilmember Sanderson asked about developer profit margins and the feasibility of missing middle housing (triplexes, fourplexes). Flintlock noted typical 20% return for banks and detailed how building code, financing, and parking “deadbolts” make such housing difficult to produce even when zoned. Councilmember Sanderson also asked whether financing alternatives from CDFIs had been explored; Mayor Thompson confirmed conversations but noted challenges. - Councilmember Clarity's closing concerns: Reiterated that if this model is believed to move the needle on affordability, it should be pursued as a zoning code change rather than a PUD. Councilmember Siefker echoed that the main reason for a PUD appears to be street design, which raises questions about the transportation plan's flexibility. Key Outcomes - No formal decisions or votes were taken. The session was informational and aimed at gathering council feedback before the PUD is submitted. - The PUD is scheduled to go to the Plan Commission on January 12, 2026, for two hearings, and then to City Council. - The consultant will provide a detailed spreadsheet of unit counts, price points, and affordability levels to council members. - Mayor Thompson expressed hope that council feedback would be incorporated before the final PUD submission, noting that major changes could delay the project's goal of having housing available by end of 2026. - The discussion revealed a split among council members: some support the PUD as an innovative tool, while others (notably Clarity and Siefker) prefer a zoning district approach and are concerned about long-term PUD management.

The committee met to discuss several proposed changes to rules and procedures for city boards, commissions, and council operations. Items included a new code of conduct for board and commission members, revisions to city code general provisions, allowing discussion and amendments at first reading of ordinances, establishing a consent agenda, and requiring council member sponsorship for legislation. No public comments were received during any of the public comment periods. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public comment periods for any agenda item. Discussion Items - Code of Conduct for Boards and Commissions: A staff member (with Anna Holmes from Legal) presented a draft code of conduct intended to clarify expectations for board and commission members regarding attendance, conflict of interest, political involvement, and general conduct. The draft was inspired by the city's HR policy handbook. Council members provided feedback, including: changing the term ‘citizen’ to ‘resident’; clarifying that conflict of interest should be defined as a financial interest, mirroring state law; and refining the political involvement section to allow members to identify their civic service without representing the city or endorsing candidates. The presenter noted that the goal is to have all members sign the code and complete training by the first quarter of 2026. The committee discussed whether the code should be codified in city code or maintained administratively, with a preference for council approval of the document. - Changes to City Code (Title 2) Regarding General Provisions: Attorney Bennett prepared draft language moving most general provisions from section 2.08.020 to a new section 2.12.010, covering terms, residency, removal, vacancies, voting, parliamentary procedure, officers, meetings, and office space. Council members discussed adding the code of conduct under removal for cause and whether to include a provision on intentional display of firearms (which already exists in the council's section). The committee also noted that budget provisions would remain in the executive branch. Staff will incorporate feedback and present a refined draft. - Allowing Discussion and Amendments at First Reading of Ordinances: Draft language was presented to remove the prohibition on discussion at first reading, allow amendments, and permit subsequent readings after second reading. The proposal also clarifies that a two-thirds vote is required to adopt an ordinance at first reading, and that zoning ordinances are exempt. Council members expressed concerns about public uncertainty regarding when to attend meetings but noted that the consent agenda could signal routine items. They agreed to wait for a formal resolution or ordinance before voting. - Consent Agenda: A broad draft consent agenda was presented, including categories for minutes, reports, appointments, first readings, and letters. Council members discussed the potential confusion of including first readings, with members Sydney and others favoring removing that category initially. The committee agreed to proceed without first readings on the consent agenda and to prepare a formal draft for future consideration. - Requiring Council Member Sponsorship for Legislation: A proposal was introduced to require that all legislation have a council member sponsor before being introduced. Council members expressed support, noting it could encourage earlier communication and filter out premature items. They requested staff to prepare questions and a rationale statement for further discussion at the next meeting. Key Outcomes - Staff will revise the code of conduct based on council feedback, including changing ‘citizen’ to ‘resident’, clarifying conflict of interest, and refining political involvement language, then bring it back for formal approval. - Staff will incorporate feedback on the city code changes (display of firearms, code of conduct placement) and present a refined draft in the next meeting. - The committee will wait for a formal resolution or ordinance to vote on the first reading discussion and consent agenda proposals. - The sponsorship requirement will remain on the agenda for further exploration, with staff to prepare questions and a rationale statement from a council member.

The Bloomington Common Council held a deliberation session on December 11, 2025 (transcript indicates December 10th start time) to discuss outcome-based budgeting and begin prioritizing outcomes for the 2027 budget. Councilmember Piedmont Smith organized the session, which focused on reviewing outcomes from existing city plans, adding new outcomes, and identifying priorities. The council debated adding an environment category, discussed structural challenges in using existing plans, and began adding outcomes for housing and homelessness, high performing government, and economic development. Public comments were heard, and a prioritization exercise was initiated but not fully completed due to time. Public Comments & Testimony - Chris Ri from the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce expressed support for incremental improvements and emphasized the importance of maintaining city assets. He also discussed economic development, noting the need for growth that brings working-age residents and warned against growth for growth's sake. - Kevin Keogh, a lifelong Bloomington resident and accountant, stressed the need for a clear understanding of fixed versus flexible costs and the use of meaningful, limited key performance indicators (KPIs) tied to outcomes. He encouraged the council to pair every prioritized outcome with measurable indicators before funding decisions. Discussion Items - Adding Environment as a Category: Councilmembers voiced support for adding environment as a seventh outcome bucket, citing resident priorities and the existence of relevant plans. Several council members noted the cross-cutting nature of many outcomes and questioned the utility of broad buckets, but the consensus was to add environment. - Structural Challenges: Councilmember Flaherty challenged the usefulness of broad categories, expressing concern about transparency and the risk of arbitrary groupings. Deputy Mayor Gretchen Knapp explained that the accounting software requires top-level categories and that more granular program data would come later. The discussion also highlighted unevenness in formal city plans (e.g., no comprehensive plan for public safety or economic development) and differing frameworks among existing plans. - Housing and Homelessness Outcomes: The council added outcomes such as increasing the speed/ease of permitting and development approval (with caveats about design quality), making homelessness rare, brief, and non-repeating, coordinated wraparound services, temporary shelter options, transit-oriented development, and follow-through on already planned projects (e.g., Hopewell and Summit). - High Performing Government Outcomes: Additions included creating city plans for areas lacking them, increasing capacity to implement existing plans, maintaining city assets, improving council-clerk functioning and accessibility, engaging in outreach rather than expecting public to come to meetings, and improving communication between council and administration. - Economic Development Outcomes: The council considered renaming the category to "economic health" and added outcomes such as attracting employers offering living wage jobs, activating vacant commercial spaces, creating vibrant third places/neighborhood hubs, and focusing on per capita economic growth and quality of life (arts, etc.). Councilmember Rallo suggested including urban village centers from the comprehensive plan. - Prioritization Exercise: Councilmembers placed post-it notes with their top three priorities on boards for each of the three categories discussed, but due to time, the results were not fully reported out. Key Outcomes - The council agreed to add "environment" as a seventh category in the outcome-based budgeting framework. - The fiscal committee will record the council's prioritized outcomes from the exercise and use them as a basis for future discussions. - The council plans to hold additional deliberation sessions to cover remaining categories (public safety, transportation, etc.). - Public comments emphasized the need for measurable KPIs and clear costing, which will inform the process. - Announcements: A special council session on the Hopewell development is scheduled for Monday, December 15th at 4:00 p.m. in the Allison Conference Room. The last regular session of 2025 is Wednesday, December 17th at 6:30 p.m. A committee on council processes meeting is scheduled for December 12th (tomorrow evening) at 6:00 p.m. (Note: transcript references December 10th start date; meeting date per metadata is December 11, 2025.)

(Note: The transcript states the meeting occurred on December 9, 2025, but the official date provided is December 11, 2025. This summary uses the official date.) The Sidewalk Committee met on December 11, 2025, at 4:29 PM (from the provided timestamp). The committee discussed renaming itself to the Pedestrian Safety Committee, reviewed status of 2025 sidewalk projects, and recommended $500,000 in 2026 funding allocations to the full Common Council. No public comments were offered. Public Comments & Testimony - None. No members of the public spoke in person or via Zoom. Discussion Items - Renaming the Committee to Pedestrian Safety Committee: The committee considered a resolution to rename the committee to the Pedestrian Safety Committee, broadening its scope from sidewalk connections to all pedestrian safety infrastructure (crosswalks, ramps, traffic calming, etc.). The resolution removed references to bicycle and micro-mobility infrastructure. The committee voted 4-0 to recommend the resolution to the Common Council. - 2025 Project Status Updates (presented by Hank Duncan, Safe Streets Program Manager): - East Second Street repaving coordination (bump outs and crosswalks at Dunn, Grant, Lincoln) – not yet constructed; street repaving moved to 2026. An additional pedestrian refuge island on Rogers Road was constructed. - North Union Street raised crosswalk (between 7th and 10th) – not yet constructed; planned for summer 2026. - North Jefferson Street sidewalk – partial construction funded; bids came in lower than expected ($238,000 total), but allocated $180,000; remaining gap discussed. Construction expected summer 2026. - Fei Lane/Law Lane intersection – ongoing corridor discussions with Indiana University for pedestrian improvements; no formal commitment yet. Street repaving planned for 2027. - 17th Street and Eagleson Avenue – short-term pedestrian refuge island using temporary materials being installed; signalization considered but not moving forward. - 2026 Funding Recommendations: Hank proposed three line items totaling $500,000: 1. North Jefferson Street sidewalk completion – $60,000. 2. Safe Streets Priority Projects – $435,000 flexible pool for pedestrian projects along the Safe Streets for All priority network (sidewalk gaps, crosswalk improvements, etc.). Funds may be used for standalone projects or to supplement larger projects with pedestrian-specific additions. 3. Change orders – $5,000 for minor contract adjustments. Discussion focused on ensuring funds are not absorbed into major non-pedestrian projects and that staff have flexibility to seize opportunities. A mid-year status report was requested by June 2026. - Project Prioritization: The committee approved the priority order: 1) North Jefferson Street, 2) Safe Streets Priority Projects, 3) Change Orders, and authorized the chair to shift funds among these three as needed. Key Outcomes - Resolution to Rename Committee: Approved 4-0 (Isabel, Sydney, Andy, Kate all yes). Recommendation to Common Council. - 2026 Funding Allocation (to recommend to Common Council): Approved 4-0, with $60,000 for North Jefferson Street, $435,000 for Safe Streets Priority Projects, and $5,000 for change orders. - Project Prioritization and Chair Authority: Approved 4-0. - Next Steps: The committee's recommendations will be reported to the Common Council at its upcoming meeting (possibly December 17). Staff will provide a mid-year report in June 2026.

Note: The transcript indicates the meeting occurred on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, but the provided metadata states the date as December 5, 2025. This summary uses the metadata date per instructions. The Bloomington Common Council held a regular session on December 5, 2025, at 6:30 PM. The meeting covered several major legislative items including a voluntary annexation fiscal plan, a year-end appropriation ordinance, a septic hauler rate adjustment, and updates to towing rates. The council also received a climate action plan update from the Economic and Sustainable Development Department. Public comment was heard on multiple items, and several votes were taken. Reports - Councilmember Reports: Councilmember Rallo expressed disappointment regarding the potential donation of the Bunger Robertson property for a hotel development, noting the council’s 2024 formal opposition and the need to recoup the $7 million paid for the property. - Climate Action Plan Update: Sean Mia, Assistant Director of Sustainability, presented an update on progress since July 2024. Key highlights include: 11 solar installations completed, 6 more approved; 9 energy audits completed by Donovan Energy; a $508,000 grant for the Buskirk-Chumley Theater HVAC and solar project; over $1 million in SEAL grants distributed; launch of Bloomington Energy Works program (funded by a $250,000 grant) to provide free energy audits; and climate resilience efforts including tree planting, AC units distributed, and 15,000 free pool admissions. Project 46 governance structure was also updated. Public Comments & Testimony - Voluntary Annexation (2005 West Cory Drive): Two neighbors, Jay Nelson and Leslie Ruiz, opposed the annexation and rezoning, citing concerns about a potential sinkhole/karst feature, existing drainage easements, narrow road conditions, traffic safety for children, and the creation of a service island. They urged full geotechnical assessment before any development. - Fiscal Plan for Annexation: Jay Nelson reiterated concerns, saying development feasibility should be assessed before annexation. Paul Post (FOP representative) criticized the fiscal plan for lacking itemized cost estimates and highlighted police understaffing. Paul Rousseau noted that septic systems in karst areas pose environmental risks and suggested full annexation of the neighborhood to avoid complications. - Appropriation Ordinance: No public comments. - Septic Hauler Rate Adjustment: Multiple septic haulers and business owners (Courtney Medley, Jeff Todd, Malcolm Webb, Chris Berg, Jerry Jackson, Jay Pippen, Maggie Sullivan, Steve) spoke in opposition to the proposed 300% rate increase. They argued that the increase would disproportionately harm holding tank customers (e.g., campgrounds, marinas, businesses) and lead to deferred maintenance, environmental damage, and financial hardship. Many requested a more gradual phase-in and a separate rate for holding tanks. - Towing Ordinances: No public comments on the amendments to Ordinance 2025-19. Discussion Items - Resolution 2025-19 – Fiscal Plan for Annexation: Council discussed the fiscal plan for annexing 2005 West Cory Drive. Assistant City Attorney Chris Wheeler presented, noting the property owner wants to build a duplex and connect to city sewer/water. The plan shows no significant fiscal impact on city departments and a slight increase in property tax revenue. Council members questioned environmental concerns (karst), road maintenance responsibilities, and the sufficiency of the plan. The resolution was adopted 7-0. - Appropriation Ordinance 2025-14: Deputy Controller Cheryl Gilliland presented the $391,484 year-end appropriation request covering eight funds, with much of it as transfers within funds. Key items include liability insurance increases, a new grapple truck for public works (funded by FEMA disaster reimbursement), vehicles for fleet, and funds for Hopewell Commons Park and Seminary Park portalet. The ordinance passed 7-0. - Ordinance 2025-44 – Septic Hauler Rate Adjustment: CBU Utilities Director Catherine Zager and staff presented the proposal to increase hauled wastewater rates from 2 cents to 8 cents per gallon (a 300% increase), based on a Crow LLP cost-of-service study. The rate had not been updated since 2000. An amendment to remove the out-of-county surcharge passed 5-2. After extensive debate about environmental justice, holding tank impacts, and gradual phasing, the main ordinance was voted down 0-7, effectively failing. Council members expressed a desire for more accurate data and better differentiation between waste types. - Ordinance 2025-19 – Towing Rate Updates: Assistant City Attorney Edina Casimanian presented updates to maximum towing and storage charges for police-initiated tows, citing increased operational costs and public safety needs. An amendment (to revert storage fee start time from 12 to 24 hours and remove a $75 after-hours fee) was discussed but later withdrawn. The ordinance was postponed to the December 17 meeting to allow further refinement. Key Outcomes - Resolution 2025-19 (Fiscal Plan for Annexation): Adopted 7-0. - Appropriation Ordinance 2025-14: Adopted 7-0. - Ordinance 2025-44 (Septic Rate Adjustment): Amendment one (remove out-of-county surcharge) passed 5-2, but the main ordinance as amended failed 0-7. The matter will be revisited in 2026. - Ordinance 2025-19 (Towing Rates): Postponed to December 17, 2025, to address concerns about after-hours fees and business hours. - Ordinance 2025-20 (Non-consensual Towing Business Regulations): Failed to be introduced due to lack of a two-thirds majority after 10:30 PM. - The council noted upcoming meetings: a deliberation session on the 2027 budget on December 10, and the next regular session on December 17.