Feb. 12, 2026: Annexation, elections, jail, Hopewell
This edition includes reports on the funding of early voting, a final decisions against Bloomington for two areas that the city wanted to annex, and staff changes at the city.
Dave Askins
Monroe County council to clerk: Run ‘robust’ primaries, request more money to cover general
After cutting most of the clerk’s $242,781 request, but adding $5,000 for overtime, the county council signaled it expects 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. early voting hours and 28 polling sites. It looks like something clerk Nicole Browne will support at Thursday’s election board meeting.
Morton Street & 9th Street
The signs on the second floor of the North Showers building point the way to the new, temporary location of the voter registration offices.
Supreme Court refuses to hear case; Bloomington’s annexation defeat in two areas now final
The Indiana Supreme Court declined review, which means the Indiana Court of Appeals ruling blocking Bloomington’s bid to annex two west-side areas will stand. Courts found the city failed statutory tests, and would impose steep tax hikes, handing remonstrators a win.
Funding math shows Monroe County could pay for big jail and justice center, council not eager for the required tax hike
At a joint meeting, Monroe County officials confronted hard choices on a new jail: raise local income taxes to fund a $225M co-located justice center or accept a cheaper, split setup with higher long-term costs.
Bloomington plan commission OKs Hopewell South rezone for city council consideration, adds accessibility oversight
Bloomington’s plan commission voted to recommend rezoning 6.3 acres for the Hopewell South PUD, clearing the way for nearly 100 smaller, lower-cost homes. Commissioners added a condition to strengthen accessibility oversight and disability-community input. It will next be heard by the city council.
Kirkwood Avenue & Washington Street
Construction on the condominium and restaurant project on the parking lot next to the CVS has started.