Local Government

Bloomington’s Transportation Commission voted 5–1 to recommend a seasonal car-free Kirkwood ordinance, rejecting staff findings that the proposal conflicts with parts of city plans, and lacked targeted public engagement. The council is expected to decide the question Wednesday (June 10).

Bloomington’s plan commission put off action on a revised 14-lot North Dunn Street subdivision until July 13, citing unfinished CBU stormwater review. Neighbors opposed the plan over flooding, tree loss, and wetland questions.

Monroe County commissioners removed a 30-day notice clause from their encampment removal policy ahead of Indiana’s July 1 “street camping” law. Commissioners criticized SB 285 as criminalizing poverty, while Sheriff Ruben Marté said deputies will continue assessing things case by case.

Bloomington’s council will consider rules for recommending scarce three-way alcohol permits, after a new state law opened two more slots. The framework would favor local, restaurant-based economic development and apply to historic-district permits and any future riverfront district.

Bloomington Transit’s first 60-foot articulated bus has arrived at the Grimes Lane operations facility, with two more expected this month. The bigger buses will add capacity on high-ridership campus routes, especially Routes 6 and 12, starting with the fall semester.

After losing its bid to annex Areas 1A and 1B, Bloomington is now disputing the legal fees it owes. Remonstrators seek nearly $200,000, while the city says state law caps reimbursement at $37,500. Special judge Nathan Nikirk will decide after proposed orders are filed July 8.