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Local Government

Articles in this section cover Bloomington city council, the mayor's office, Monroe County's board of commissioners, county council, and all the other local units.

Bloomington council approves 2027 budget 6–1, with president as lone dissenter

Bloomington council approves 2027 budget 6–1, with president as lone dissenter

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

Monroe County election board reviews problems with accessible ballot system

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

Ryan Pedigo named deputy chief of Bloomington police department

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.

Bloomington plan commission gives nod to housing code changes, zoning for 2 voluntary annexations

Bloomington plan commission gives nod to housing code changes, zoning for 2 voluntary annexations

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

Monroe County health board sets Oct. 22 hearing on possible removal of health officer

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.

Analysis: Bloomington’s proposed superintelligence ban raises questions about authority, enforcement

Analysis: Bloomington’s proposed superintelligence ban raises questions about authority, enforcement

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.

Monroe County jail notebook: Week finishes on 4-day stretch under functional capacity

Monroe County jail notebook: Week finishes on 4-day stretch under functional capacity

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.