Legislative update

The state legislature had a productive session this year. In addition to approving Bloomington City Council’s request to allow Bloomington voters to weigh in on a half-cent local option sales tax many other legislative decisions will have an impact in Bloomington. 

Bonding bill

The City is set to receive $1.8 million in bonding money for design of the Public Health building and $2.272 million for design of capital improvements and renovations to Bloomington Ice Garden. The City had sought funding of just over $25 million for two projects. 

Public safety

The public safety bill includes money for cities and Bloomington has been allocated $3.98 million in one-time funding. “This will allow for some strategic investments, likely items such as equipment and technology,” Mayor Tim Busse said. 

Policies that will have an impact

Many policy issues to come out of this session will affect Bloomington, including the legalization of marijuana, state adoption of earned sick and safe leave and affordable housing. 

“It’s going to take some time to sort out exactly how Bloomington will be impacted. You’ll be hearing more about these things in the coming weeks and months,” Mayor Busse said.