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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.

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’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.

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.

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 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.

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.