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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 sounds alarm on spotted lanternfly: Residents asked to report sightings

Bloomington sounds alarm on spotted lanternfly: Residents asked to report sightings

An invasive insect, the spotted lanternfly, is approaching Bloomington, putting crops and gardens at risk. That has prompted city officials to ask for help from residents to identify these pests as quickly as possible.

Bloomington awards over $500K in social services grants as potential federal cuts loom

Bloomington awards over $500K in social services grants as potential federal cuts loom

Last Wednesday, Bloomington's city council approved over a half million dollars in funding to 35 different social service agencies, continuing the Jack Hopkins funding program's 33-year tradition. Since its start, more than $6 million has been awarded through the Jack Hopkins program.

Following criticism, Monroe County health board mulls new public comment policy

Following criticism, Monroe County health board mulls new public comment policy

Following critical public commentary at recent meetings, the Monroe County Board of Health is now considering a new policy to govern public comment during its meetings. A policy draft will be reviewed by board members for the board's June 26 meeting.

Democratic Party chair pauses before making long-term appointment to Monroe County election board, puts himself in seat for one month

Democratic Party chair pauses before making long-term appointment to Monroe County election board, puts himself in seat for one month

On May 22, Monroe County Democratic Party chair Samuel Ujdak announced his intention to appoint former county commissioner Penny Githens to the party's seat on the election board. But on Thursday, it was Ujdak himself who was sworn into office—which is a move he says will be temporary.

Discomfort zone: County commissioner rips Bloomington chamber; Spoonmore fires back

Discomfort zone: County commissioner rips Bloomington chamber; Spoonmore fires back

On Thursday, Monroe County commissioner Julie Thomas exercised a point of personal privilege at the end of the board of commissioners regular meeting, to condemn the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce. Chamber president Eric Spoonmore later responded.

Bloomington area leaders reflect on long path to groundbreaking of convention center expansion

Bloomington area leaders reflect on long path to groundbreaking of convention center expansion

On Tuesday at the southeast corner of 3rd Street and College Avenue, a ceremonial groundbreaking took place for the Bloomington Convention Center expansion, with remarks from a half dozen local leaders.

Tens of millions of dollars from Bloomington could support convention center host hotel; legal pressure mounts for Showers West 'public purpose'

Tens of millions of dollars from Bloomington could support convention center host hotel; legal pressure mounts for Showers West 'public purpose'

To push along a potential deal with Dora Hospitality for development of a host hotel for the soon-to-be-expanded Bloomington convention center, the city's redevelopment commission (RDC) has approved $300,000 for preliminary architectural designs.