# The B Square Bulletin
> Bloomington Total News: Future. Present. Past.
Public Ghost content for AI and LLM tooling. Use `/llms-full.txt` for consolidated page and post context.
Append `.md` to any post or page URL to get the content in Markdown (for example, `/example-post.md`).

## Pages
- [2012 Bloomington City Council Redistricting Maps](https://bsquarebulletin.com/2012-bloomington-city-council-redistricting-maps.md) - When Bloomington’s city council considered maps for redistricting in 2012, based on the 2010 census, it was a committee of the three at-large council members who met to consider redrawing the lines. The three were: Andy Ruff, Timothy Mayer, and Susan Sandberg. Here’s a link: [2012 committee notes]…
- [2019 Bloomington General | At-Large Council Candidate: Jim Sims](https://bsquarebulletin.com/2019-bloomington-general-at-large-council-candidate-jim-sims.md) - Jim Sims is running in the general election for one of three at-large councilmember seats on the Bloomington Common Council, with two other candidates, Susan Sandberg and Matt Flaherty. Because the three are not opposed by any other candidates on the ballot or as write-ins, no election will be held…
- [2019 Bloomington General |At-Large Council Candidate: Matt Flaherty](https://bsquarebulletin.com/2019-bloomington-general-at-large-council-candidate-matt-flaherty.md) - Matt Flaherty is running in the general election for one of three at-large councilmember seats on the Bloomington Common Council, with two other candidates, incumbents Susan Sandberg and Jim Sims. Because the three are not opposed by any other candidates on the ballot or as write-ins, no election w…
- [2019 Bloomington General | At-Large Council Candidate: Susan Sandberg](https://bsquarebulletin.com/2019-bloomington-general-at-large-council-candidate-susan-sandberg.md) - Susan Sandberg is running in the general election for one of three at-large councilmember seats on the Bloomington Common Council, with two other candidates, Jim Sims and Matt Flaherty. Because the three are not opposed by any other candidates on the ballot or as write-ins, no election will be held…
- [2019 Bloomington General | Clerk Candidate: Nicole Bolden](https://bsquarebulletin.com/2019-bloomington-general-clerk-candidate-nicole-bolden.md) - Nicole Bolden is seeking re-election to a four-year term as Bloomington city clerk and will win that election by default. She is unopposed in the general election, so no election will be held for city clerk on Nov. 5. No Republicans appeared on the primary ballot, and the party did not “caucus in”…
- [2019 Bloomington General | District 1 Council Candidate: Kate Rosenbarger](https://bsquarebulletin.com/2019-bloomington-general-district-1-council-candidate-kate-rosenbarger.md) - Kate Rosenbarger is running for a four-year term on the Bloomington Common Council representing District 1. She is unopposed in the race, so no election for District 1 will be held on Nov. 5, and Rosenbarger will win the race by default. Rosenbarger won the Democratic Party primary for District 1 w…
- [2019 Bloomington General | District 2 Council Candidate: Andrew Guenther](https://bsquarebulletin.com/2019-bloomington-general-district-2-council-candidate-andrew-guenther.md) - Andrew Guenther is the Republican Party nominee for a four-year term on the Bloomington Common Council representing District 2. Guenther was unopposed in the primary. In the Nov. 5 general election he’ll face the winner of a 3-way Democratic Party primary, Sue Sgambelluri. District 2 covers portion…
- [2019 Bloomington General | District 2 Council Candidate: Sue Sgambelluri](https://bsquarebulletin.com/2019-bloomington-general-district-2-council-candidate-sue-sgambelluri.md) - Sue Sgambelluri won a three-way primary and is the Democratic Party nominee for a four-year term on the Bloomington Common Council representing District 2. [Full results here] She faces Republican Andrew Guenther in the Nov. 5 general election. District 2 covers portions of Bloomington’s north and…
- [2019 Bloomington General | District 3 Council Candidate: Marty Spechler](https://bsquarebulletin.com/2019-bloomington-general-district-3-council-candidate-marty-spechler.md) - Marty Spechler collected at least 89 signatures to qualify as an independent candidate to represent District 3 on the Bloomington city council. He faces Democratic Party nominee Ron Smith and independent Nick Kappas in the Nov. 5 general election. The incumbent Democrat, Allison Chopra, is not seek…
- [2019 Bloomington General | District 3 Council Candidate: Nick Kappas](https://bsquarebulletin.com/2019-bloomington-general-district-3-council-candidate-nick-kappas.md) - Nick Kappas collected at least 89 signatures to qualify as an independent candidate to represent District 3 on the Bloomington city council. He faces Democratic Party nominee Ron Smith and independent Marty Spechler in the Nov. 5 general election. The incumbent Democrat, Allison Chopra, is not seek…
- [2019 Bloomington General | District 3 Council Candidate: Ron Smith](https://bsquarebulletin.com/2019-bloomington-general-district-3-council-candidate-ron-smith.md) - Ron Smith won the primary and is the Democratic Party nominee for a four-year term on the Bloomington Common Council representing District 3. [Full results here] He faces independents Marty Spechler and Nick Kappas in the Nov. 5 general election. The incumbent Democrat, Allison Chopra, is not seeki…
- [2019 Bloomington General | District 4 Council Candidate: Dave Rollo](https://bsquarebulletin.com/2019-bloomington-general-district-4-council-candidate-dave-rollo.md) - Dave Rollo is seeking re-election for a fifth four-year term on the Bloomington Common Council in District 4. He is unopposed in the race, so no election for District 4 will be held on Nov. 5, and Rollo will win the race by default. Rollo won the Democratic Party primary for District 4 with 1,079 v…
- [2019 Bloomington General | District 5 Council Candidate: Isabel Piedmont-Smith](https://bsquarebulletin.com/2019-bloomington-general-district-5-council-candidate-isabel-piedmont-smith.md) - Isabel Piedmont-Smith is seeking re-election to a third four-year term on the Bloomington Common Council representing District 5. She is unopposed in the general election, so no election for District 5 will be held on Nov. 5 and Piedmont-Smith will win the race by default. Piedmont-Smith won the De…
- [2019 Bloomington General | District 6 Council Candidate: Steve Volan](https://bsquarebulletin.com/2019-bloomington-general-district-6-council-candidate-steve-volan.md) - Steve Volan is seeking re-election to a four-year term on the Bloomington Common Council representing District 6. He is unopposed in the general election, so no election for District 6 will be held on Nov. 5 and Volan will win the race by default. Volan ran unopposed in the District 6 Democratic Pa…
- [2019 Bloomington General | Mayoral Candidate: John Hamilton](https://bsquarebulletin.com/2019-bloomington-general-mayoral-candidate-john-hamilton.md) - John Hamilton is running for his second four-year term as mayor of the City of Bloomington. He is unopposed in the general election, so no election will be held for mayor on Nov. 5. No Republicans appeared on the primary ballot, and the party did not “caucus in” a candidate for the general election…
- [2019 Bloomington Primary|Clerk Candidate: Nicole Bolden](https://bsquarebulletin.com/2019-bloomington-primary-clerk-candidate-nicole-bolden.md) - Outcome: Nicole Bolden won the Democratic Party primary for city clerk with 4,530 votes. [Full results here] Nicole Bolden is seeking re-election to a four-year term as Bloomington city clerk. She is unopposed in the May 7, 2019 Democratic Party primary and no Republicans will appear on the primary…
- [2019 Bloomington Primary|Council Candidate At-Large: Andy Ruff](https://bsquarebulletin.com/2019-bloomington-primary-council-candidate-at-large-andy-ruff.md) - Outcome: The top three at-large vote-getters in the Democratic Party primary were Susan Sandberg with 2,993 votes (21.54 percent), Jim Sims with 2,728 votes (19.63 percent) and Matt Flaherty with 2,564 votes (18.45 percent). Andy Ruff received 2,337 votes (16.82 percent). [Full results here] Andy R…
- [2019 Bloomington Primary|Council Candidate At-Large: Jean Capler](https://bsquarebulletin.com/2019-bloomington-primary-council-candidate-at-large-jean-capler.md) - Outcome: The top three at-large vote-getters in the Democratic Party primary were Susan Sandberg with 2,993 votes (21.54 percent), Jim Sims with 2,728 votes (19.63 percent) and Matt Flaherty with 2,564 votes (18.45 percent). Jean Capler received 2,338 votes (16.82%). [Full results here] Jean Capler…
- [2019 Bloomington Primary|Council Candidate At-Large: Matt Flaherty](https://bsquarebulletin.com/2019-bloomington-primary-council-candidate-at-large-matt-flaherty.md) - Outcome: The top three at-large vote-getters in the Democratic Party primary were Susan Sandberg with 2,993 votes (21.54 percent), Jim Sims with 2,728 votes (19.63 percent) and Matt Flaherty with 2,564 votes (18.45 percent). [Full results here] Matt Flaherty is running for a four-year term on the B…
- [2019 Bloomington Primary | Council Candidate At-Large: Jim Sims](https://bsquarebulletin.com/council-candidate-at-large-jim-sims.md) - Outcome: The top three at-large vote-getters in the Democratic Party primary were Susan Sandberg with 2,993 votes (21.54 percent), Jim Sims with 2,728 votes (19.63 percent) and Matt Flaherty with 2,564 votes (18.45 percent). [Full results here] Jim Sims is running for a four-year term on the Bloomi…

## Posts
- [Oct. 22, 2026: Monroe County budget; commissioner salaries; IU luncheon; deer crashes; IOSHA safety fine](https://bsquarebulletin.com/oct-22-2026-monroe-county-budget-commissioner-salaries-iu-luncheon-deer-crashes-iosha-safety-fine.md) - This morning's edition includes reports on the Monroe County council’s decision to decline a request for increased commissioner salaries. Also: a column about a luncheon server whose son was in immigration detention. Finally: the county government’s effort to avoid a $3,000 workplace safety fine.
- [Bloomington Convention Center update: $660K bid OK’d for Seminary Pointe demolition](https://bsquarebulletin.com/bloomington-convention-center-update-660k-bid-okd-for-seminary-pointe-demolition.md) - Bloomington's convention center expansion is on track for Jan. 8 completion. The CIB OK’d a $660,000 bid to demolish Seminary Pointe buildings for hotel construction staging, despite objections over lost affordable housing. Hotel development talks continue, with a completed hotel expected in 2029.
- [Kirkwood Avenue & Walnut Street](https://bsquarebulletin.com/kirkwood-avenue-walnut-street-15.md) - Seasonal flower installation in the concrete beds. If you know what kind of flowers they are please: Shhhhhhh! Shut your yap! Button it up! Because, you know, well ...
- [Monroe County council sticks with proposed 2027 salaries, keeps commissioners at 85%](https://bsquarebulletin.com/monroe-county-council-sticks-with-proposed-2027-salaries-keeps-commissioners-at-85.md) - The Monroe County Council adopted a $147 million budget for 2027, but rejected an appeal from county commissioner Julie Thomas to bring commissioner salaries in line with other elected officials. Councilor David Henry called for a broader review of county administration in January.
- [Editor’s Notebook: Big names did their jobs at the luncheon. So did the servers.](https://bsquarebulletin.com/editors-notebook-big-names-did-their-jobs-at-the-luncheon-so-did-the-servers.md) - At an economic development luncheon featuring Indiana's governor and IU's president, one of the servers was the mother of a Bloomington man held in immigration detention. As officials discussed jobs and opportunity, she was working to serve lunch on the day her son was granted a $15,000 bond.
- [Slow down for deer on the move: Fall brings bigger crash risk to Bloomington roads](https://bsquarebulletin.com/slow-down-for-deer-on-the-move-fall-brings-bigger-crash-risk-to-bloomington-roads.md) - October and November are peak months for deer collisions as mating season sends bucks running across roads. DNR estimates put Bloomington’s deer population at roughly 2,258. With Monroe County deer crashes rising from 169 in 2024 to 185 in 2025, drivers are urged to slow down, especially at dusk.
- [Monroe County plans chemical safety program in effort to avoid proposed $3K fine by IOSHA](https://bsquarebulletin.com/monroe-county-to-make-written-safety-plan-to-avoid-3k-fine-for-chemical-violation-at-justice-center.md) - Indiana workplace safety inspectors say they'll impose a $3K penalty against Monroe County for lacking a written chemical safety plan, unless such a program is created by a Nov. 12 deadline. The finding followed an August drain-cleaner incident that sickened justice center workers.
- [Oct. 19, 2026: No Kings rally; plate-reader ban; $6.87M bond plan; immigration court ruling; jail pop below threshold](https://bsquarebulletin.com/oct-19-2026-no-kings-rally-plate-reader-ban-6-87m-bond-plan-immigration-court-ruling-jail-pop-below-threshold.md) - This morning's edition includes a report from Saturday's No Kings rally. Also: Bloomington's vote to ban license plate readers, plus a proposed $6.87 million bond issue for a fire truck and street safety. In addition: a report on a federal immigration detention ruling.
- [Demonstrators gather in downtown Bloomington for ‘No Kings: Vote Early’ rally](https://bsquarebulletin.com/demonstrators-gather-in-downtown-bloomington-for-no-kings-vote-early-rally.md) - Under sunny skies, demonstrators gathered Saturday at Bloomington’s courthouse for the nationwide anti-Trump “No Kings: Vote Early” effort. Speakers urged early voting, defended immigrants and linked national concerns to Seminary Pointe and Flock cameras.
- [Sunday Funnies: Hawk v. Fish](https://bsquarebulletin.com/sunday-funnies-hawk-v-fish-83.md) - Halloween is coming up and Hawk and Fish are ready. How would a ghost campaign for Bloomington city council? And why did the mayor hire a vampire as public engagement director?
- [Monroe County property transfers through Oct. 14, 2026](https://bsquarebulletin.com/monroe-county-property-transfers-through-oct-14-2026.md) - This report includes new property transfers in Monroe County that haven’t previously been reported by The B Square, with dates ranging from Sept. 17 through Oct. 14, 2026. The data in this report comes from Beacon, the county’s online geographic information system for property and parcel data.
- [6th Street & Walnut Street](https://bsquarebulletin.com/6th-street-walnut-street-29.md) - The skeleton riding on the back of a Honda Shadow motorcycle seems like a setup for a joke: Bone to be wild. Or: “Yea, though I ride through the valley of the Honda Shadow of Death, I will fear no Evel Knievel.”
- [Monroe County jail notebook: Population stays below ACLU threshold for 11 straight days](https://bsquarebulletin.com/monroe-county-jail-notebook-population-stays-below-aclu-threshold-for-11-straight-days.md) - Monroe County’s jail population fell to 214 on Saturday, marking 11 straight days below the ACLU’s functional capacity figure of 229. Over 89 days of tracking, the population has declined from 247, with at least 822 departures. The median stay among those who left was two days.
- [Bloomington proposes $6.87M bond issue for fire truck, street safety, plans for regular borrowing](https://bsquarebulletin.com/bloomington-proposes-6-87m-bond-issue-for-fire-truck-street-safety-plans-for-regular-borrowing.md) - Bloomington is considering about $6.87 million in bonds to replace its aging aerial fire truck and fund street safety projects. The borrowing would raise property taxes. A public hearing and possible final city council vote are scheduled for Nov. 4.
- [Second Bloomington immigration detainee wins federal court order for bond hearing](https://bsquarebulletin.com/second-bloomington-immigration-detainee-wins-federal-court-order-for-bond-hearing.md) - A federal judge ordered immigration officials to give Manuel Alejandro Nadal Ortiz a bond hearing by Oct. 22, or release him. The government must report compliance by Oct. 23. He is the second Bloomington man arrested Sept. 1 to win a similar ruling.
- [Bloomington council votes 7–0 to ban license plate readers, after debate over some exceptions](https://bsquarebulletin.com/bloomington-council-votes-7-0-to-ban-license-plate-readers-after-debate-over-some-exceptions.md) - Bloomington’s city council voted 7–0 to ban automated license plate readers and certain surveillance cameras. A disputed amendment allowing access to recordings for criminal investigations passed 5–2, despite concerns it could weaken the ban. At least 29 people spoke from the public mic.
- [Oct. 15, 2026: Bloomington 2027 budget approved 6–1; Monroe County ballot problems; new deputy police chief; housing code changes; Health officer removal hearing](https://bsquarebulletin.com/oct-15-2026-bloomington-2027-budget-approved-6-1-monroe-county-ballot-problems-new-deputy-police-chief-housing-code-changes-health-officer-removal-hearing.md) - This morning's edition includes reports on Bloomington’s 6–1 budget vote, problems with Monroe County’s electronic absentee ballots, a new deputy police chief, proposed housing code changes, and an Oct. 22 hearing on the possible removal of the county health officer.
- [Bloomington council approves 2027 budget 6–1, with president as lone dissenter](https://bsquarebulletin.com/bloomington-council-approves-2027-budget-6-1-with-president-as-lone-dissenter.md) - Bloomington’s city council adopted the 2027 budget on a 6–1 vote, with Isak Asare dissenting over whether city spending delivers clear, measurable benefits to residents. The council withheld millions for housing and parking projects. Matt Flaherty and Kate Rosenbarger were absent.
- [Monroe County election board reviews problems with accessible ballot system](https://bsquarebulletin.com/monroe-county-election-board-reviews-problems-with-accessible-ballot-system.md) - Questions about Monroe County’s electronic absentee ballot system dominated Wednesday’s election board meeting, with about a dozen voters reporting problems. The board took no action to change systems.
- [Ryan Pedigo named deputy chief of Bloomington police department](https://bsquarebulletin.com/ryan-pedigo-named-deputy-chief-of-bloomington-police-department.md) - Ryan Pedigo has been named Bloomington police deputy chief, replacing Scott Oldham, who requested a return to the rank of lieutenant. Pedigo, a 19-year department veteran, will continue for now as public information officer, including conducting daily 11 a.m. press briefings.
- [Madison Street & 10th Street](https://bsquarebulletin.com/madison-street-10th-street.md) - On North Madison near 10th Street. Indianapolis Colts blood drive bus in the Trades District.
- [Bloomington plan commission gives nod to housing code changes, zoning for 2 voluntary annexations](https://bsquarebulletin.com/bloomington-plan-commission-gives-nod-to-housing-code-changes-zoning-for-2-voluntary-annexations.md) - On Monday (Oct. 12), Bloomington’s plan commission recommended the new zoning for two voluntary annexations. The commission also recommended UDO changes easing rules for duplexes, cottages and ADUs.
- [Monroe County health board sets Oct. 22 hearing on possible removal of health officer](https://bsquarebulletin.com/monroe-county-health-board-sets-oct-22-hearing-on-possible-removal-of-health-officer.md) - Monroe County’s health board voted 5–0 to schedule an Oct. 22 hearing on whether to remove health officer Sarah Ryterband, less than two years into a four-year term. The board disclosed no specific allegations and raised the possibility of terminating her contract without cause.
- [Kirkwood Avenue & Walnut Street](https://bsquarebulletin.com/kirkwood-avenue-walnut-street-14.md) - Trojan Horse kitchen through the window. Last day at this location was Saturday (Oct. 10).
- [Walnut Street & Kirkwood Avenue](https://bsquarebulletin.com/walnut-street-kirkwood-avenue-6.md) - Photog Lisa Wilson is doing a fashion shoot for Gather shopkeep Talia Halliday, who has new offerings at the store a half block to the north.
- [Oct. 12, 2026: Bloomington AI ban; murder charge; Showers West costs; Stinesville ICE agreement; 2027 city budget](https://bsquarebulletin.com/oct-12-2026-bloomington-ai-ban-murder-charge-showers-west-costs-stinesville-ice-agreement-2027-city-budget.md) - This morning's edition includes reports on Bloomington's proposed superintelligence ban and a murder charge in a northwest-side shooting. Also: Showers West ownership; Rokita's defense of Stinesville's ICE agreement; and city council's votes on 2027 budget cuts.
- [Switchyard Park](https://bsquarebulletin.com/switchyard-park.md) - Two deer grazing.
- [Analysis: Bloomington’s proposed superintelligence ban raises questions about authority, enforcement](https://bsquarebulletin.com/analysis-bloomingtons-proposed-superintelligence-ban-raises-questions-about-authority-enforcement.md) - Bloomington councilmember Dave Rollo’s current effort to address AI risks would ban superintelligent systems within city limits, even when hosted elsewhere. Unlike a resolution, the proposed ordinance would carry penalties, but raises legal questions about city authority, enforcement and repeal.
- [Sunday Funnies: Hawk v. Fish](https://bsquarebulletin.com/sunday-funnies-hawk-v-fish-82.md) - Hawk is thinking very hard about the colors of autumn leaves. Maybe a little too hard.
- [Monroe County property transfers through Oct. 7, 2026](https://bsquarebulletin.com/monroe-county-property-transfers-through-oct-7-2026.md) - This report includes new property transfers in Monroe County that haven’t previously been reported by The B Square, with dates ranging from Sept. 9 to Oct. 7, 2026. The data in this report comes from Beacon, the county’s online geographic information system for property and parcel data.
- [Monroe County jail notebook: Week finishes on 4-day stretch under functional capacity](https://bsquarebulletin.com/monroe-county-jail-notebook-week-finishes-on-4-day-stretch-under-functional-capacity.md) - Monroe County’s jail population fell to 220 Saturday, down 11 compared to a week ago. It also marked the fourth straight day under the ACLU’s 229-person functional capacity. Over the last 82 days, the jail averaged 237 inmates, with at least 803 departures and a median stay of two days.
- [Bloomington man, 23, charged with murder in fatal shooting on northwest side](https://bsquarebulletin.com/bloomington-man-23-charged-with-murder-in-fatal-shooting-on-northwest-side.md) - A 23-year-old Bloomington man faces a murder charge after a 24-year-old man was shot in the head Thursday evening near Crestmont Park. Police city witnesses saying the suspect approached the victim on a porch and fired. Witnesses cited a suspected relationship involving Gilreath's ex-girlfriend.
- [Showers West Notebook: RDC members question continued ownership as city offices move in](https://bsquarebulletin.com/showers-west-notebook-rdc-members-question-continued-ownership-as-city-offices-move-in.md) - Bloomington’s redevelopment commission has paid nearly $77,000 in electricity bills for Showers West this year, while city departments occupy much of the building without leases. Commissioners are considering transferring ownership or establishing leases to clarify who should pay the bills.
- [Rokita backs Stinesville ICE agreement, but town board puts off up-or-down decision](https://bsquarebulletin.com/rokita-backs-stinesville-ice-agreement-but-town-board-puts-off-up-or-down-decision.md) - Indiana AG Todd Rokita says Stinesville’s ICE agreement is valid without town board approval. Immigration attorney Christie Popp disputes his legal reasoning. On Tuesday, the board delayed a decision a month, and created a fund to receive the federal money. County commissioners drew criticism.
- [2027 Budget: Bloomington council rejects $2.5M general fund cut, still withholds millions for housing, parking projects](https://bsquarebulletin.com/2027-budget-bloomington-council-rejects-2-5m-general-fund-cut-still-withholds-millions-for-housing-parking-projects.md) - Bloomington’s city council rejected a $2.5 million general fund cut, but withheld $5.5 million in housing and parking appropriations and cut vehicle-monitoring funds. The debate exposed tensions over spending oversight and staff morale. A final budget vote is expected Oct. 14.
- [Oct. 8, 2026: Bloomington budget cuts, $2.5M proposal fails; Habitat water deal; early voting; $30M police HQ; food inspections](https://bsquarebulletin.com/oct-8-2026-bloomington-budget-cuts-2-5m-proposal-fails-habitat-water-deal-early-voting-30m-police-hq-food-inspections.md) - This morning's edition has reports on Bloomington's 2027 budget amendments, including: a failed $2.5 million cut; a water-service settlement for Habitat's Osage Place; the start of Monroe County early voting; plans for a $30 million police headquarters; and August food inspections.
- [Courthouse square](https://bsquarebulletin.com/courthouse-square-24.md) - Alley off of 6th Street between College and Walnut. Some kind of photo shoot underway.
- [College Avenue & 6th Street](https://bsquarebulletin.com/college-avenue-6th-street-5.md) - RIP Spudshacks. The business was there only about a year. The sign says to call Omega Properties at 812-333-0995 for inquiries about renting the space.
- [2027 budget: Council president proposes $2.5M across-the-board target for Bloomington general fund](https://bsquarebulletin.com/council-president-proposes-2-5m-across-the-board-target-for-bloomington-general-fund.md) - Bloomington council president Isak Asare has proposed cutting $2.5 million from the city’s 2027 general fund, leaving Mayor Kerry Thomson’s administration to identify the specific reductions before final adoption. Council takes up 16 possible amendments Wednesday night.
- [Bloomington utilities, Habitat settle Osage Place water dispute](https://bsquarebulletin.com/bloomington-utilities-habitat-settle-osage-place-water-dispute.md) - Bloomington utilities approved a settlement letting Habitat for Humanity get water service for Phase 2 of Osage Place while a Phase 1 stormwater dispute continues. Habitat will withdraw its appeal, and CBU keeps authority to require approved drainage fixes by Oct. 30, 2027. The vote was unanimous.
- [Polls open for early voting in Monroe County ahead of Nov. 3 election](https://bsquarebulletin.com/polls-open-for-early-voting-in-monroe-county-ahead-of-nov-3-election.md) - Early voting for the Nov. 3 election began Tuesday at Monroe County’s North Showers building. About a half-dozen voters waited outside in 42-degree air before the 8 a.m. opening. Clerk Nicole Browne gave the legally required proclamation that the polls were open.
- [Bloomington looking for architect to design $30M police HQ project at 714 S. Rogers](https://bsquarebulletin.com/bloomington-looking-for-architect-to-design-30m-police-hq-project-at-714-s-rogers.md) - Bloomington is seeking architects to design a new police headquarters at 714 S. Rogers St., with proposals due Nov. 6. The city wants to reuse as much of the 56,000-square-foot former convalescent center as possible while keeping construction costs at or below $30 million.
- [Bloomington city hall](https://bsquarebulletin.com/bloomington-city-hall-4.md) - Sign posted on the entrance to city hall says “No Election Campaign Materials Permitted on City Hall Grounds.” Another sign points to the other end of the Showers building complex, where early voting starts tomorrow.
- [Monroe County Retail Food Inspections: August 2026](https://bsquarebulletin.com/monroe-county-retail-food-inspections-august-2026.md) - During 70 of the 92 inspections of retail food establishments done by the Monroe County health department in August 2026, no violations were found. During 11 of them at least one core violation was found, but nothing more severe. During 4 of them, at least one priority violation was found.
- [Oct. 5, 2026: Early voting starts; Bloomington budget cuts; Kirkwood shooting warrant; ICE bond; jail report; B Square’s future](https://bsquarebulletin.com/oct-5-2026-early-voting-starts-bloomington-budget-cuts-kirkwood-shooting-warrant-ice-bond-jail-report-b-squares-future.md) - This morning's edition includes reports about early voting, Bloomington’s 2027 budget, a warrant issued related to the Kirkwood shooting. There’s also a report about a $10,000 immigration bond, plus property transfers, Sunday Funnies and The B Square’s “dangerous middle.”
- [Miller-Showers Park](https://bsquarebulletin.com/miller-showers-park-2.md) - A great blue heron stands on one of the weirs, between the detention ponds, looking south.
- [Miller-Showers Park](https://bsquarebulletin.com/miller-showers-park.md) - (12 photos) A red-tail hawk and a great blue heron hang out at the park.
- [Editor’s Notebook: Getting The B Square unstuck from the ‘dangerous middle’](https://bsquarebulletin.com/editors-notebook-getting-the-b-square-unstuck-from-the-dangerous-middle.md) - A Syracuse University study finds independent local publishers can get stuck in a “dangerous middle”: established enough that readers depend on them, but without the revenue to spread the work. The B Square fits that pattern, and is asking readers to help build a sustainable future.
- [Monroe County jail notebook: Population down to 231 with recent trend slightly downward](https://bsquarebulletin.com/monroe-county-jail-notebook-population-down-to-231-with-recent-trend-slightly-downward.md) - Monroe County’s jail population fell to 231 on Oct. 3, down six from a week earlier. The 10-day rolling average dropped to about 233. Over 75 days, the jail has averaged 238 people. Of the 247 jailed on July 21, 108 were still there Oct. 3.
- [Sunday Funnies: Hawk v. Fish](https://bsquarebulletin.com/sunday-funnies-hawk-v-fish-81.md) - A pumpkin’s circumference divided by its diameter and the best kind of chart for visualizing it. Hawk and Fish have all the answers.
- [Monroe County property transfers through Sept. 30, 2026](https://bsquarebulletin.com/monroe-county-property-transfers-through-sept-30-2026.md) - This report includes new property transfers in Monroe County that haven’t previously been reported by The B Square, with dates ranging from Aug. 21 to Sept. 30, 2026. The data in this report comes from Beacon, the county’s online geographic information system for property and parcel data.
- [Bloomington police identify suspect in Sept. 6 Kirkwood shooting, warrant issued](https://bsquarebulletin.com/bloomington-police-identify-suspect-in-sept-6-kirkwood-shooting-warrant-issued.md) - An arrest warrant has been issued for Dajhon Lee Branson-Orellana, 21, in the Sept. 6 shooting outside Bloomington’s downtown library. Police identified him through surveillance video and witness accounts. Prosecutors filed four felony charges, but not attempted murder.
- [Courthouse square](https://bsquarebulletin.com/courthouse-square-23.md) - (With video!) Projection mapping onto the courthouse dome for Lotus Festival by Blockhouse Studios.
- [Immigration judge sets $10K bond for Bloomington man after federal habeas win](https://bsquarebulletin.com/immigration-judge-sets-10k-bond-for-bloomington-man-after-federal-habeas-win.md) - On Friday, an immigration judge granted a $10,000 bond to Cesar Augusto Cepeda Gomez, one of two Bloomington men detained by ICE on Sept. 1. He remains held in Michigan pending release. Manuel Alejandro Nadal-Ortiz is pursuing a parallel habeas corpus case seeking a bond hearing.
- [Monroe County early in-person voting starts Tuesday, absentee ballot pace ahead of 2022](https://bsquarebulletin.com/monroe-county-early-in-person-voting-starts-tuesday-absentee-ballot-pace-ahead-of-2022.md) - Early voting starts Oct. 6 in Monroe County, with absentee voting ahead of the 2022 pace. Election officials report 1,348 ballots issued and 265 returned. A judge also upheld the state’s “sore loser” law, blocking Joe Davis as a write-in for the county clerk race.
- [2027 budget talks for Bloomington city council turn to potential staffing cuts](https://bsquarebulletin.com/2027-budget-talks-for-bloomington-city-council-turn-to-potential-staffing-cuts.md) - Bloomington council president Isak Asare floated new personnel and organizational cuts during Wednesday’s 2027 budget work session. They including changes to the mayor’s communications operation and the economic and sustainable development department. Votes on changes are expected Oct. 7.
- [Oct. 1, 2026: Possible cuts to 2027 Bloomington budget, new money for parks capital planning](https://bsquarebulletin.com/oct-1-2026-possible-cuts-to-2027-bloomington-budget-new-money-for-parks-capital-planning.md) - This morning’s edition includes reports on possible amendments to the city of Bloomington’s 2027 budget, and a new grant opportunity that could impact the parks and recreation capital plan.
- [Kirkwood Avenue & Washington Street](https://bsquarebulletin.com/kirkwood-avenue-washington-street-9.md) - The poster advertising the Lotus Festival highlights the Backyard Comedy Showcase, which takes place Friday, Oct. 2, at 9 p.m. on the courthouse lawn. Admission is free.
- [Council’s proposed Bloomington budget cuts add to millions, but savings are much smaller](https://bsquarebulletin.com/councils-proposed-bloomington-budget-cuts-add-to-millions-but-savings-are-much-smaller.md) - Bloomington councilmembers will review millions of dollars in proposed 2027 budget cuts Wednesday, but many would trim placeholders or align appropriations with expected spending rather than produce new savings. Policy-driven proposed reductions total about $452,000.
- [Kirkwood Avenue & Washington Street](https://bsquarebulletin.com/kirkwood-avenue-washington-street-8.md) - Construction on the condominium and restaurant project has now reached to top of the CVS.
- [Courthouse square](https://bsquarebulletin.com/courthouse-square-22.md) - The posting on the vacant storefront window that says "No Posting" which went up a few days ago, after a layer of postings had accumulated, seems to be working so far.
- [College Avenue & Kirkwood Avenue](https://bsquarebulletin.com/college-kirkwood.md) - The flyer is advocating for the ordinance that Bloomington’s city council will be considering for a vote at its Oct. 14, 2026 meeting, which would ban the use of automatic license plate reading technology like that used in Flock Safety cameras.
- [New grant opportunity with $10M in play could reshape Bloomington parks capital plan](https://bsquarebulletin.com/new-grant-opportunity-with-10m-in-play-could-reshape-bloomington-parks-capital-plan.md) - Bloomington parks is reworking its capital plan after a Lilly-backed grant created the possibility of up to $10 million more for projects. Priorities include pools, ice, pickleball, baseball, trails and a possible sale of the department’s South Walnut Street property.
- [Smith Street & Walnut Street](https://bsquarebulletin.com/smith-street-walnut-street.md) - Darn Good Soup has been back for a few weeks after a seasonal hiatus. A new flavor is delicious: Chorizo Potato Poblano.
- [Sept. 28, 2026: MCCSC redistricting, jail numbers, absentee voting, courthouse clock, Young council bid, homelessness spending](https://bsquarebulletin.com/sept-28-2026-mccsc-redistricting-jail-numbers-absentee-voting-courthouse-clock-young-council-bid-homelessness-spending.md) - This morning’s edition includes reports on MCCSC redistricting priorities, Monroe County jail numbers, absentee voting and election deadlines, the courthouse clock repair, Lilliana Young’s 2027 city council bid, and county spending on encampment cleanup, patrols and housing.
- [MCCSC redistricting priorities: Socioeconomic balance, savings](https://bsquarebulletin.com/mccsc-redistricting-priorities-socioeconomic-balance-savings.md) - MCCSC has set numerical guardrails for possible redistricting, reorganization or restructuring. Socioeconomic balance and projected savings were given the most weight. A separate eight-month facilities study is also underway and could shape future scenarios.
- [Sunday Funnies: Hawk v. Fish](https://bsquarebulletin.com/sunday-funnies-hawk-v-fish-80.md) - What if the Monroe County courthouse dome were painted to look like a pumpkin?
- [Monroe County property transfers through Sept. 22, 2026](https://bsquarebulletin.com/monroe-county-property-transfers-through-sept-22-2026.md) - This report includes new property transfers in Monroe County that haven’t previously been reported by The B Square, with dates ranging from Aug. 21 to Sept. 22, 2026. The data in this report comes from Beacon, the county’s online geographic information system for property and parcel data.
- [Monroe County jail notebook: Population still up, but just two recent drug arrestees remain](https://bsquarebulletin.com/monroe-county-jail-notebook-population-still-up-but-just-two-recent-drug-arrestees-remain.md) - Monroe County’s jail held 237 people Saturday, while its 10-day rolling average stood at about 234, down from 254 in late July. Despite heavy turnover, the population continues to exceed the ACLU’s 229-person functional capacity. Only 2 of the 7 Seminary Park arrestees on Tuesday are still in jail.
- [Monroe County election board: 1,075 absentee ballots issued as registration deadline looms](https://bsquarebulletin.com/monroe-county-election-board-1-075-absentee-ballots-issued-as-registration-deadline-looms.md) - Monroe County election officials reported 1,075 absentee ballots issued as the Nov. 3 election approaches. Voter registration closes Oct. 5, with early voting starting Oct. 6. A Sept. 30 town hall will be held for Ellettsville–Richland voters on the proposed government reorganization.
- [Courthouse square](https://bsquarebulletin.com/courthouse-square-21.md) - (With video!) The light show on the Monroe County courthouse dome has been dialed in with precision by Blockhouse Studios. This weekend promotes the local college football game. Stay tuned for more during Lotus World Music & Arts Festival, which is Oct. 1–4 this year.
- [Timepiece notebook: Monroe County courthouse clock has no hands for now, waits on a new gearbox](https://bsquarebulletin.com/timepiece-notebook-monroe-county-courthouse-clock-has-no-hands-for-now-waits-on-a-new-gearbox.md) - A broken gearbox has left the ornate wall clock in Monroe County’s Nat U. Hill Room without hands. The county has ordered a replacement gearbox for the 1908-era timepiece, which operates separately from the courthouse tower clocks and bell timer.
- [Lilliana Young launches 2027 bid for Bloomington city council at-large seat](https://bsquarebulletin.com/lilliana-young-launches-2027-bid-for-bloomington-city-council-at-large-seat.md) - Lilliana Young will seek a Democratic nomination for Bloomington city council in 2027, less than five months after challenging state Rep. Matt Pierce. Young, a democratic socialist, is campaigning on housing, infrastructure, human rights and opposition to surveillance technology.
- [Monroe County adds $35K for encampment cleanup, $50K for patrols, $162K for housing](https://bsquarebulletin.com/monroe-county-adds-35k-for-encampment-cleanup-50k-for-patrols-162k-for-housing.md) - Monroe County commissioners approved more spending tied to homelessness Thursday: $35,000 for Powerline Camp cleanup, up to $50,000 for security patrols, and $162,379 for Heading Home’s direct-to-housing initiative
- [6th Street & Washington Street](https://bsquarebulletin.com/6th-street-washington-street-7.md) - Middle Way House's annual Wrapped in Love display is now being installed. Plenty of tree sweaters are left to sponsor. But this one is proudly supported by The B Square.
- [Sept. 24, 2026: New local income tax framework, $1M for Beacon, convention center updates](https://bsquarebulletin.com/sept-24-2026-new-local-income-tax-framework-1m-for-beacon-convention-center-updates.md) - This edition includes reports on new members joining two convention boards, $1 million in county government support for Beacon’s shelter project, new details on the boil-water advisory, and talks over how Monroe County’s new local income tax structure could work.
- [Courthouse square](https://bsquarebulletin.com/courthouse-square-20.md) - (With video!) Testing of the light show to be projected on the Monroe County courthouse dome for Lotus World Music & Arts Festival, which is Oct. 1–4 this year. Blockhouse Studios is handling the projections. This weekend it will be promoting the local college football game.
- [New members join CIB, CVC as Bloomington convention center approaches operational handoff](https://bsquarebulletin.com/new-members-join-cib-cvc-as-bloomington-convention-center-approaches-operational-handoff.md) - Two Monroe County convention-related boards added members this month as the convention center expansion nears completion. The CIB also approved up to $296,000 in added limestone-support costs, while the CVC reviewed the shift to CIB oversight and new bookings for the expanded center.
- [Monroe County council adds $1M in support for Beacon Center to proposed 2027 budget, after $4M financing setback](https://bsquarebulletin.com/monroe-county-council-adds-1m-in-support-for-beacon-center-to-proposed-2027-budget-after-4m-financing-setback.md) - Monroe County’s proposed 2027 budget now includes $1 million in ED LIT money for Beacon Inc.’s planned West 3rd Street housing and shelter complex, helping fill a $4 million financing gap that forced the nonprofit to split construction into two phases.
- [9th Street & Morton Street (Election Central)](https://bsquarebulletin.com/9th-street-morton-street-election-central.md) - (With video!) Part of a test deck is run through one of the half dozen voting machines subjected to a logic and accuracy test. Preparation of the test deck required hand-marking 5,000 ballots.
- [CBU fills in some details behind countywide boil-water advisory, including 1.06 NTU reading](https://bsquarebulletin.com/cbu-fills-in-some-details-behind-countywide-boil-water-advisory-including-1-06-ntu-reading.md) - A power outage and equipment failures at Bloomington’s water plant led to a brief turbidity violation and countywide boil-water advisory. The measurement showing levels too high came about 5 p.m. Saturday, and fell below the limit by 6 p.m. It was not announced to the public until 12:04 a.m. Sunday.
- [Monroe County local income tax group mulls shared municipal rate approach](https://bsquarebulletin.com/monroe-county-local-income-tax-group-mulls-shared-municipal-rate-approach.md) - Monroe County’s MUST ended its first meeting without recommending a local income tax rate. But members showed support for a shared municipal-services approach that could let Bloomington replace revenue a city-only rate could not. Bloomington Transit funding is an open question.
- [Sept. 21, 2026: Cloudy water, big zoning changes, appointment to transit board, failed rental inspections](https://bsquarebulletin.com/sept-21-2026-cloudy-water-big-zoning-changes-appointment-to-transit-board-failed-rental-inspections.md) - This morning's edition includes reports on a countywide boil-water advisory, supportive housing apartments still closed after failed inspections, a transit board appointment, and citywide zoning changes eliminating parking minimums.
- [2nd Street & College Avenue](https://bsquarebulletin.com/semin.md) - At the Seminary Square Kroger, the shelves that hold jugs of water are nearly empty as shoppers buy up the inventory after the boil water advisory.
- [Grant Street & Kirkwood Avenue](https://bsquarebulletin.com/grant-street-kirkwood-avenue-4.md) - A monarch butterfly is nectaring in the flower bed in front of the Monroe County Public Library.
- [Dunn Street & Kirkwood Avenue](https://bsquarebulletin.com/dunn-street-kirkwood-avenue-3.md) - Impact of boil water advisory. The sign on the door of Village Deli says “We are not serving water or soda due to the Bloomington water advisory. We will be selling bottled water. Thanks for your understanding.”
- [Sunday Funnies: Hawk v. Fish](https://bsquarebulletin.com/sunday-funnies-hawk-v-fish-79.md) - What’s another word for pamphlet? Fish knows! Do you?!
- [Monroe County property transfers through Sept. 11, 2026](https://bsquarebulletin.com/monroe-county-property-transfers-through-sept-11-2026.md) - This report includes new property transfers in Monroe County that haven’t previously been reported by The B Square, with dates ranging from Aug. 21 to Sept. 11, 2026. The data in this report comes from Beacon, the county’s online geographic information system for property and parcel data.
- [Now Lifted: Countywide boil-water advisory in effect through Monday (Sept. 21) after turbidity spike at Bloomington water plant](https://bsquarebulletin.com/countywide-boil-water-advisory-in-effect-through-monday-sept-21-after-turbidity-spike-at-bloomington-water-plant.md) - A countywide boil-water advisory is in effect after storm-related power outages reduced production at Bloomington’s water treatment plant and turbidity exceeded the federal limit. Residents should boil water for drinking, cooking and oral hygiene until at least 3 p.m. Monday (Sept. 21).
- [Monroe County jail notebook: Population still routinely over functional capacity](https://bsquarebulletin.com/monroe-county-jail-notebook-population-hits-week-long-stretch-over-aclu-functional-limit-2.md) - Monroe County’s jail held 236 people Saturday, Sept. 19, above the ACLU’s 229-person functional-capacity estimate. The 10-day rolling average was about 232, down from roughly 254 in late July. At least 585 people left the jail during the 61-day span. The median stay was 2 days.
- [Update: Some Bloomington supportive apartments stay closed to new tenants after failed inspections](https://bsquarebulletin.com/update-some-bloomington-supportive-apartments-stay-closed-to-new-tenants-after-failed-inspections.md) - Thirty-two of 61 apartments at Bloomington’s Crawford supportive housing complex are vacant but cannot be leased because both buildings failed city inspections. Officials say restoring the units is increasingly urgent amid limited housing options for people experiencing homelessness.
- [Bloomington council appoints Ammerman to transit board, sends Cross removal question to committee](https://bsquarebulletin.com/bloomington-council-appoints-ammerman-to-transit-board-sends-cross-removal-question-to-committee.md) - Bloomington’s city council appointed Zach Ammerman to the Bloomington Transit board. The council referred the proposed removal of historic preservation commissioner Reynard Cross to a council committee, which is expected to report back Oct. 14.
- [Bloomington council approves citywide zoning changes 5–3, eliminates minimums for motor-vehicle parking](https://bsquarebulletin.com/bloomington-council-approves-citywide-zoning-changes-5-3-eliminates-minimums-for-motor-vehicle-parking.md) - Bloomington’s city council voted 5–3 to approve zoning changes that shrink minimum lot sizes, and eliminate motor-vehicle parking minimums among other things. Supporters said the changes could ease housing construction. Opponents warned of parking and redevelopment impacts.
- [Sept. 17, 2026: New management for Bloomington Transit, possible police HQ at Hopewell](https://bsquarebulletin.com/sept-17-2026-new-management-for-bloomington-transit-possible-police-hq-at-hopewell.md) - This edition includes reports on the Bloomington Transit management transition and the redevelopment commission’s support of reusing the 714 S. Rogers building as a police headquarters. The RDC thinks it can back the project with $30 million.
- [7th Street & Morton Street](https://bsquarebulletin.com/7th-street-morton-street-3.md) - There are seven parking tickets on the windshield and one notice of towing on the driver's side window.
- [Bloomington Transit board OKs Keolis management contract 3–2, McDaniel now says he’s out](https://bsquarebulletin.com/bloomington-transit-board-oks-keolis-management-contract-3-2-mcdaniel-now-says-hes-out.md) - Bloomington Transit’s board voted 3–2 to hire Keolis as its new management firm, replacing RATP Dev starting Oct. 1. Nick Standefer, the new general manager, introduced himself to the board and staff.
- [Bloomington RDC backs 714 South Rogers for police HQ, eyes up to $30M in financing](https://bsquarebulletin.com/bloomington-rdc-backs-714-south-rogers-for-police-hq-eyes-up-to-30m-in-financing.md) - Bloomington’s RDC backed converting 714 S. Rogers St. into a new police headquarters, with up to $30 million in potential TIF-backed bonds. Residents raised concerns about arts uses and public engagement, while police and city officials supported the reuse plan
- [Sept. 14, 2026: Health administrator fired, wrongful termination suit planned; new liquor-permit rules; judges nix inmate-transfers](https://bsquarebulletin.com/sept-14-2026-health-administrator-fired-wrongful-termination-suit-planned-new-liquor-permit-rules-judges-nix-inmate-transfers.md) - This edition includes a report on Monroe County’s fired health administrator, who plans a wrongful termination suit. Also: Bloomington adopts liquor-permit rules with a local-ownership standard. And a refusal by judges to authorize inmate transfers keeps big costs out of the sheriff’s 2027 budget.
- [Stillwater Marsh Water Fowl Resting Area](https://bsquarebulletin.com/stillwater-marsh-water-fowl-resting-area.md) - I believe this is a Double-crested Cormorant (Nannopterum auritum). It declined to be interviewed.
- [Monroe County jail notebook: Population hits week-long stretch over ACLU functional limit](https://bsquarebulletin.com/monroe-county-jail-notebook-population-hits-week-long-stretch-over-aclu-functional-limit.md) - Monroe County’s jail population stood at 237 Saturday, ending a full week above the ACLU’s 229 functional-capacity figure. The jail’s 10-day rolling average has fallen by about 20 since late July, while records show substantial turnover among people who are incarcerated.
- [Sunday Funnies: Hawk v. Fish](https://bsquarebulletin.com/sunday-funnies-hawk-v-fish-78.md) - Fish shows he’s oh so fancy by using an umlaut in his street name suggestion. Because nothing says you’re smart and sophisticated better than two dots over a letter!

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