News Releases

In the last video update in 2022, Mayor John Hamilton and Department of Public Works Director Adam Wason continue the discussion about the City’s employment placement initiative with Centerstone. 

In this week's video update, Deputy Mayor Don Griffin and Human Rights Director/Assistant City Attorney Barbara McKinney discuss the City’s recent eighth perfect score on the Human Rights Campaign Index. 

This afternoon, Mayor Hamilton submitted the following veto message to members of the Common Council and City Clerk's Office.

In this week's video update, Mayor John Hamilton and Parks and Recreation Director Paula McDevitt discuss the City's employment placement partnership with Centerstone.

Five City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 tests since the December 15 update, including one Department of Public Works (DPW) employee, one Bloomington Police Department (BPD) employee, and three City Hall employees.

In anticipation of inclement weather later this week, including precipitation and single-digit temperatures, the City of Bloomington advises residents for their safety to avoid prolonged outdoor exposure and to check on older family members and neighbors often to ensure their safety.

Eligible City of Bloomington employees may soon participate in two new pilot programs in addition to receiving extensive new and ongoing benefits in 2023. The new pilot programs include six weeks paid parental leave and paid Commercial Driver’s License training. 

As of today, Monday, December 19, The City of Bloomington has converted the Maxwell Lane and Sheridan Road intersection from a two-way stop-controlled intersection (with stop signs on Sheridan only) into an all-way stop-controlled intersection. 

Eleven City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 tests since the December 8 update, including three Bloomington Fire Department (BFD) employees, three Parks and Recreation (Parks) employees, two Bloomington Police Department (BPD) employees, and three City Hall employees (including Mayor Hamilton).

Mayor John Hamilton announced today the appointment of Mary Catherine Carmichael to the position of Deputy Mayor and Kaisa Goodman as Public Engagement Director for the City of Bloomington. 

The City of Bloomington is accepting applications from community members who would like to serve on one of the following City boards or commissions

Mayor John Hamilton has issued the following statement regarding the Convention Center expansion ahead of the City Council’s special session on December 14.

Each week, Mayor Hamilton and Deputy Mayor Griffin provide video updates on recent news and key initiatives. Access all of the weekly video updates at bloomington.in.gov/videoupdates.

The City of Bloomington Parking Services is excited to introduce a new parking feature for ParkMobile users. Users can now pre-set the amount of time they want to park and can stop the parking session when desired. Duration of a parking session can easily be managed directly in the app and from a phone. The completely digital process puts parkers in charge of parking time. 

Eight City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 tests since the December 1 update, including two Bloomington Police Department (BPD) employees, one Utilities (CBU) employee, one City Hall employee, and four Bloomington Transit (BT) employees.

Concepts to be unveiled at public open house Dec. 15 from 6-7 p.m. at City Hall

The City of Bloomington Commission on the Status of Women is seeking nominees for the 2023 Woman of the Year, Toby Strout Lifetime Contribution, Emerging Leader, and Young Woman of the Year awards. The deadline for submission of nominations for 2023 is Friday, January 20, 2023. Otherwise, nominations for these awards are accepted throughout the year. The 2023 awards will be presented during the Women’s History Month Luncheon in March 2023. 

As part of continuing efforts to improve digital equity in our community, the City of Bloomington Information & Technology Services Department (ITS) is pleased to announce public Wi-Fi in two City parks, with work currently underway in three more. 

Four City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 tests since the November 23 update, including two Bloomington Police Department (BPD) employees, one Utilities (CBU) employee, and one Bloomington Transit (BT) employee.

Bloomington is a vibrant community filled with activity. Each month there are numerous opportunities to enjoy and engage, socially and civically. The City will provide monthly updates on what is happening in and with the City and you will discover that no matter your interests or inclinations, there is something for everyone.

The City of Bloomington and Local 2487 of the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) (AFL-CIO Council 962) have reached an agreement on the terms of a contract that will govern salaries and benefits for union members for the next four years. 

The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation (hrc.org), in partnership with the Equality Federation (equalityfederation.org), has announced that Bloomington has again been awarded a perfect score on the annual Municipal Equality Index (MEI). Now in its eleventh year, the index of 506 cities nationwide uses 49 criteria to evaluate how inclusive a city’s laws, policies, and services are of the LGBTQ+ people who live and work there. Bloomington was one of 120 cities in the U.S. to earn a perfect score this year, up from 110 cities last year. 

In today's video update, Mayor Hamilton discusses the new proposed public safety investments with Deputy Mayor Griffin. Yesterday, the City announced plans for $34 million in new investments in public safety including the issuance of $29.5 million in general revenue bonds to fund the projects. Details are available online at https://bton.in/uevIy.  

The City of Bloomington invites area children, together with their families, to a Winter Wonderland celebration at the Banneker Community Center (930 West Seventh Street) on Saturday, December 10 from noon to 3 p.m. The free event will feature seasonal activities including arts and crafts, cookie decoration, holiday carols, free photos with Santa, and a toy giveaway. 

On November 28, 2022, the City of Bloomington Redevelopment Commission and the Kiln Collective closed the sale of the Showers Brothers Furniture Factory Kiln Building at 642 N Madison Street, setting the stage for redevelopment of the historic structure.

To mark the 23rd anniversary of the Stuff-A-Bus, Bloomington Transit will partner with Hoosier Country 105.1 and B97, with all donations going to the Monroe County Indiana Department of Child Services to help make the holidays merrier for children and families in need in our community.

The City of Bloomington has announced plans for $34 million in new investments in public safety including the issuance of $29.5 million in general revenue bonds to fund the projects.

Four City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 tests since the November 17 update, including three Public Works (DPW) employees and one Bloomington Transit (BT) employee.

Two, temporary weekend-long closures held in November to facilitate annual deer hunt.

The City of Bloomington has released a memo outlining options for a 501c3 nonprofit organization and a Capital Improvement Board (CIB) for the Convention Center expansion.

The City of Bloomington will offer free parking on the street downtown and in City garages from Thursday, November 24 through Sunday, November 27, recognizing the Thanksgiving holiday and Small Business Saturday, a day to celebrate Bloomington’s small businesses and their contribution to our community.  

Mayor John Hamilton will dedicate Showers Plaza as the Fernandez Plaza during the annual Holiday Market. 

The City of Bloomington is pleased to announce the public launch of three online applications made available through the innovative collaboration between Bloomington's Information & Technology Services Department (ITS) and Google.org to deploy the CiviForm platform. CiviForm is an open-source tool originally developed by the City of Seattle with support from Google.org Fellows to simplify and centralize online applications for government assistance. Bloomington is the second city after Seattle to deploy the CiviForm system. 

Two City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 tests since the November 10 update, including one Bloomington Police Department (BPD) employee and one Bloomington Housing Authority (BHA) employee.

Tune in to Mayor John Hamilton as he announces his plans for 2023. Mayor Hamilton will not seek a third term.

Join Mayor Hamilton and City of Bloomington Utilities Director Vic Kelson as they discuss the recent modernization project at Dillman Road Wastewater Plant and its recent 40th Anniversary.

Tuesday evening in a ceremony at City Hall, seven young nominees won S.W.A.G.G.E.R (Students Who Act Generously, Grow, and Earn Respect) Awards. They were selected from among 17 impressive young people, all of whom were recognized for their meaningful and generous acts.  

The City of Bloomington is accepting applications from community members who would like to serve on one of the following City boards or commissions:

The City of Bloomington invites 501(c)(3) organizations to apply for City funding for projects that will improve the human condition of Bloomington residents who are unhoused or who are in jeopardy of becoming homeless. 

Join Mayor Hamilton as he demonstrates the easiest way to get rid of the fall leaves in your yard. The finely chopped leaves decompose and return nutrients back to the soil.

Seven City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 tests since the November 3 update, including one Utilities (CBU) employee, one Bloomington Police Department (BPD) employee, two Public Works (DPW) employees, and three Bloomington Transit (BT) employees.

Join Mayor Hamilton and Public Engagement Director Mary Catherine Carmichael as they discuss a path forward for a convention center expansion.

Griffy Lake is closed Nov. 9, and the weekends of Nov. 12-13 and Nov. 19-20.

One City worker has reported positive results of COVID-19 tests since the October 27 update, including one Utilities (CBU) employee.

oin Mayor Hamilton and GigabitNow/Isofusion CEO Stephen Milton as they discuss high-speed internet access to all of Bloomington as part of the Meridiam/Hoosier Network's $50-million-plus fiber-network project.

Bloomington is a vibrant community filled with activity. Each month there are numerous opportunities to enjoy and engage, socially and civically. The City will provide monthly updates on what is happening in and with the City and you will discover that no matter your interests or inclinations, there is something for everyone.

Early Monday evening, the City of Bloomington Utilities (CBU) issued a statement regarding hydrocarbon odors coming from the sewage flowing to the Dillman Road Wastewater Treatment Plant. A thorough search was conducted and determined the smell resulted from a release of gasoline fuel into the sanitary and storm sewer near a Marathon Gas Station located at 1307 West Third Street.  

On Friday, Hopewell Steering Committee co-chairs Mayor Hamilton and Vi Simpson, along with members, and city staff received updates in a Hopewell Steering Committee meeting on the Hopewell Neighborhood project. Progress continues, with Phase 1 East demolition and site restoration that began in late August now complete. Material haul-off for recycling and disposal took place over a few weeks in September and October. The Hopewell Phase 1 East project site is bounded by 2nd Street to the north, 1st Street to the south, B-Line to the east, and Rogers Street to the west. 

The City of Bloomington, in partnership with Trahan Architects, has released recommendations to advance the arts across the city. The study was recommended by the 2021 Waldron Recommendations Task Force and was part of the Recover Forward initiative to help the community recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. Trahan coordinated a Study Team to investigate the need for a new facility to accommodate the City’s burgeoning arts community and explore potential non-facility-based programs and initiatives to develop Bloomington as a purpose-built arts community.

Each week, Mayor Hamilton and Deputy Mayor Griffin provide video updates on recent news and key initiatives. In today's video update, Mayor Hamilton discusses community criminal justice with Deputy Mayor Griffin. Deputy Mayor Griffin recently authored an op-ed published in Wednesday's online edition of the Herald-Times.

On August 5, 2022, the Indiana General Assembly and Governor Holcomb enacted Senate Bill 1 (SB 1), which came into effect on September 15. This law bans nearly all abortions in the state and requires any abortions allowed under the law’s very narrow exceptions to be performed in hospitals or ambulatory outpatient surgical centers that are hospital-owned, rather than in the clinics in which the vast majority of abortions have been safely performed in the state for decades.

Four City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 tests since the October 20 update, including one City Hall employee, one Parks and Recreation (Parks) employee, one Utilities (CBU) employee, and one Bloomington Fire Department (BFD) employee.

Numerous infrastructure improvement projects are underway this season to advance community goals, including safety, sustainability, accessibility, equity, economic vitality, and quality of life in Bloomington. The City will provide regular public updates on a range of these improvements as they progress. City departments coordinate with one another, as well as with private developers, to minimize the impact on Bloomington residents and visitors.  As we enter the colder weather seasons, projects and improvements wind down. This is the final update of the season. We will resume this weekly communication in the spring. Please watch for the monthly event and program updates and take advantage of all that Bloomington has to offer. 

In today's video update, Mayor Hamilton discusses the Bicentennial Bonds with Operations and Development Division Director Tim Street for Bloomington Parks and Recreation.

Applications accepted online through Jan. 13, 2023.

The City of Bloomington Commission on the Status of Children and Youth (CSCY) is seeking nominations for the 2022 SWAGGER (Students Who Act Generously, Grow, and Earn Respect) Awards. Effective nominees have taken action that enhances the lives around them through generous acts, personal growth, and the promotion of respect. We seek nominations from educators, neighbors, friends, relatives, and clergy of students who live or attend school within the Monroe County Community School Corporation area.

Assistant Director of Sustainability Lauren Clemens provided the community and members of the City Council with an update on October 19 concerning the progress toward achieving community climate and sustainability goals.

Each week, Mayor Hamilton and Deputy Mayor Griffin provide video updates on recent news and key initiatives. In today's video, Mayor Hamilton discusses the Climate Action Plan with Assistant Director of Sustainability Lauren Clemens.

Four months ahead of schedule and on budget, the Hidden River Pathway Project is substantially complete. A reconstruction project of the downtown stormwater infrastructure from 2nd & Washington upstream/northeast to 4th & Grant launched by the City of Bloomington Utilities (CBU) in February 2021 was contracted with Milestone Contractors, LLP. 

Two City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 tests since the October 13 update, including one Bloomington Transit (BT) employee and one Utilities (CBU) employee.

Numerous infrastructure improvement projects are underway this season to advance community goals, including safety, sustainability, accessibility, equity, economic vitality, and quality of life in Bloomington. The City will provide regular public updates on a range of these improvements as they progress. City departments coordinate with one another, as well as with private developers, to minimize the impact on Bloomington residents and visitors. 

Water service must be shut off prior to the onset of freezing temperatures to prevent damage.

The City of Bloomington has been awarded the 2022 Best of Indiana Award for Best Application Serving the Public at the local government level for its updated data portal and new dashboards, which went live in 2021 at bloomington.data.socrata.com.

The City of Bloomington is accepting applications from community members who would like to serve on one of the following City boards or commissions

As the seasons change, the City of Bloomington reminds residents of the options for handling fallen leaves at their property and requests residents’ assistance in keeping storm drains clear of leaves and debris, and adjacent sidewalks free of leaves, snow, and ice. Starting Monday, November 14, the City offers residential leaf collection and curbside leaf vacuuming.

Numerous infrastructure improvement projects are underway this season to advance community goals, including safety, sustainability, accessibility, equity, economic vitality, and quality of life in Bloomington. The City will provide regular public updates on a range of these improvements as they progress. City departments coordinate with one another, as well as with private developers, to minimize the impact on Bloomington residents and visitors. 

Three City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 tests since the October 6 update, including one Bloomington Fire Department (BFD) employee, one City Hall employee, and one Utilities (CBU) employee.

The City of Bloomington Council for Community Accessibility (CCA) will be hosting Gather ‘round the Table for an Accessible Journey on Monday, November 7, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Monroe Convention Center. Please join us as we explore this year’s theme, traveling with a disability. Registration to attend the event is available at https://bton.in/byi2l.

This past May, the Indiana Court of Appeals issued a ruling in Bloomington v. Guenther and agreed with the City that under state law (a) otherwise qualified residents need not affiliate with a political party to serve on the Bloomington Plan Commission, reflecting all residents’ shared interest in the City’s development, and (b) Mayor John Hamilton was the only person empowered in this case to fill the vacant plan commission seat.

The City of Bloomington and Constellation Stage & Screen will celebrate the reopening of the John Waldron Arts Center on Thursday, October 13 from 5-7 p.m. The facility has been closed since July 1, 2022, when Constellation, an organization that formed as a merger of Cardinal Stage, Bloomington Playwrights Project, and Pigasus Institute, took on the management of the Waldron Arts Center and initiated a series of interior renovations. 

Each week, Mayor Hamilton and Deputy Mayor Griffin provide video updates on recent news and key initiatives. Tune in as Mayor John Hamilton and Deputy Mayor Don Griffin discuss the 2023 city budget ahead of tonight's City Council meeting and provide updates since last week's meeting. 

The City of Bloomington Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Celebration Commission (https://bton.in/nViK5) is seeking nominations for the annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Legacy Award. The award recognizes and affirms those who have made significant contributions in the areas of race relations, justice, and human rights and is presented annually at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Celebration in January.  

Each week, Mayor Hamilton and Deputy Mayor Griffin provide video updates on recent news and key initiatives. In today's video, Mayor Hamilton discusses the Hoosier Networks Fiber-Network with Meridiam USA CEO Nicolas Rubio.

Indigenous Peoples Day honors the Native or Indigenous Peoples of North America in all their diversity and complexity. While not a federal holiday, it is celebrated by more than a dozen states and more than 130 cities. In 2018, Mayor Hamilton proclaimed October 8 as Indigenous Peoples' Day (https://bton.in/zVsKa), making Bloomington the first city in Indiana to recognize the important day.

Each week, Mayor Hamilton and Deputy Mayor Griffin provide video updates on recent news and key initiatives. In today's video, Mayor Hamilton discusses the Regional Climate Convening with Economic & Sustainability Development Director Alex Crowley.

The City of Bloomington trick-or-treat hours for 2022 have been set for Monday, October 31 from 5:30 - 8:30 p.m., rain or shine.  

Numerous infrastructure improvement projects are underway this season to advance community goals, including safety, sustainability, accessibility, equity, economic vitality, and quality of life in Bloomington. The City will provide regular public updates on a range of these improvements as they progress. City departments coordinate with one another, as well as with private developers, to minimize the impact on Bloomington residents and visitors. 

Three City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 tests since the September 29 update, including one Bloomington Fire Department (BFD) employee, one Bloomington Housing Authority (BHA) employee, and one Parks and Recreation (Parks) employee.

On Tuesday, October 4, Mayors of Bloomington and Columbus, John Hamilton and Jim Lienhoop, hosted a Regional Climate Convening to bring together about 100 critical players from Bartholomew, Brown, and Monroe Counties, from the private, nonprofit. educational, and government sectors. The goal was to address the shared challenge that is climate change and explore preparation, adaptation, and mitigation measures. 

The City of Bloomington Safe and Civil City Program (SCCP) and Young Women's Leadership Summit (YWLS) committee invite proposals from prospective speakers for the Fourth Annual Young Women’s Leadership Summit. The dates of the summit are Thursday, November 3 at Bloomington North High School and Thursday, November 10 at Bloomington South High School.

Hoosier Networks, LLC the fiber network utility provider established by Meridiam, plans to break ground on the transformational $50-million-plus network this month bringing high-speed internet access to all of Bloomington. GigabitNow will deliver fiber-based broadband services when construction is completed to the first residents at the end of January 2023.

Bloomington is a vibrant community filled with activity. Each month there are numerous opportunities to enjoy and engage, socially and civically. The City will provide monthly updates on what is happening in and with the City and you will discover that no matter your interests or inclinations, there is something for everyone.

Numerous infrastructure improvement projects are underway this season to advance community goals, including safety, sustainability, accessibility, equity, economic vitality, and quality of life in Bloomington. The City will provide regular public updates on a range of these improvements as they progress. City departments coordinate with one another, as well as with private developers, to minimize the impact on Bloomington residents and visitors. 

Two City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 tests since the September 22 update, including one Bloomington Fire Department (BFD) employee and one Parks and Recreation (Parks) employee.

Bloomington has received a Gold designation from the national SolSmart program (solsmart.org/) for advancing the growth of solar energy across Bloomington. This designation recognizes the City of Bloomington for taking steps that make it faster, easier, and more affordable for local homes and businesses to go solar by increasing education and awareness of solar energy. Achievement of the SolSmart Gold designation is a goal of both Bloomington’s Climate and Sustainability Action Plans. 

On Wednesday, September 28, the Biden-Harris Administration will host the White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health.

Bloomington Public Transportation Corporation (BPTC), which has been in operation since 1982, will celebrate 40 years of serving the Bloomington community on Wednesday, October 5, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. at the downtown transit facility located at 301 North Walnut Street. John Connell, BPTC General Manager, will open the event, followed by guest speakers Mayor John Hamilton,  BPTC Board of Directors James McLary, and Bloomington Common Council President Susan Sandberg.  

Since Meridiam announced its plans in May 2022 to bring high-speed internet access to all of Bloomington, the City of Bloomington and Meridiam have activated the operations phase of this transformational project.

Numerous infrastructure improvement projects are underway this season to advance community goals, including safety, sustainability, accessibility, equity, economic vitality, and quality of life in Bloomington. The City will provide regular public updates on a range of these improvements as they progress. City departments coordinate with one another, as well as with private developers, to minimize the impact on Bloomington residents and visitors. 

On July 23, 2022, the Bloomington Police Department (BPD) achieved full Tier 1 accreditation status for the second time through the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA). This award will remain in effect for four years and the Bloomington Police Department will retain all privileges associated with being a CALEA-accredited agency during that time period. BPD was first awarded full Tier 1 law enforcement accreditation in July of 2018. 

The City of Bloomington’s Department of Economic and Sustainable Development has launched the “Zero In Bloomington” initiative (zeroinbloomington.com) to help individuals and groups track progress towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions in support of Bloomington’s communitywide climate goal to reach net zero by 2050. Zero In Bloomington helps drive community-driven action to increase climate resiliency and meet climate goals outlined in Bloomington’s sustainability vision (https://bton.in/fIExl), while building momentum around achieving community climate action.

The City of Bloomington is accepting applications from community members who would like to serve on one of the following City boards or commissions:

Numerous infrastructure improvement projects are underway this season to advance community goals, including safety, sustainability, accessibility, equity, economic vitality, and quality of life in Bloomington. The City will provide regular public updates on a range of these improvements as they progress. City departments coordinate with one another, as well as with private developers, to minimize the impact on Bloomington residents and visitors. 

Four City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 tests since the September 8 update, including one City Hall (City Hall) employee, two City of Bloomington Utilities (CBU) employees, and one Bloomington Housing Authority (BHA) employee.

Hoosier Networks, the fiber network utility provider established by Meridiam, announced today its partnership with GigabitNow as the primary ISP (Internet Service Provider) under the Meridiam agreement with the City.

Launch builders must register their device by Oct. 14.

The City of Bloomington Council for Community Accessibility (CCA) invites community members to review and provide feedback to the City’s ADA Transition Plan until September 30, 2022 available at bloomington.in.gov/accessible. The feedback form is available at https://bton.in/TZArS.

Numerous infrastructure improvement projects are underway this season to advance community goals, including safety, sustainability, accessibility, equity, economic vitality, and quality of life in Bloomington. The City will provide regular public updates on a range of these improvements as they progress. City departments coordinate with one another, as well as with private developers, to minimize the impact on Bloomington residents and visitors. 

Eleven City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 tests since the September 1 update, including two City Hall (City Hall) employees, two City of Bloomington Utilities (CBU) employees, two Parks and Recreation (Parks) employees, four Public Works (DPW) employees, and one Bloomington Police Department (BPD) employee.

Tuesday afternoon at Showers Plaza in front of City Hall, residents gathered to learn about and celebrate the launch of Go Bloomington, a program that supports mobility options that are alternatives to single occupancy vehicles with the goals of reducing carbon emissions, calming traffic congestion, and improving parking availability.

The City of Bloomington has been recognized by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance as a 2022 Digital Inclusion Trailblazer (https://bton.in/~HIVp).  First launched in 2016, Digital Inclusion Trailblazers is a public inventory of local government initiatives promoting digital literacy and broadband access for underserved residents.  The City was commended for its continuing efforts to bridge the digital divide, including conducting a scientific survey on broadband equity, developing a Digital Equity Strategic Plan, establishing a Digital Equity Grants Fund for nonprofit organizations, and efforts to make high-speed broadband more available and affordable.

Funds for amenities and maintenance of barn and silo donated by the Sherman and Meredith Rogers Family

Bloomington is a vibrant community filled with activity. Each month there are numerous opportunities to enjoy and engage, socially and civically. The City will provide monthly updates on what is happening in and with the City and you will discover that no matter your interests or inclinations, there is something for everyone.

Nine City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 tests since the August 25 update, including one City Hall (City Hall) employee, three City of Bloomington Utilities (CBU) employees, one Parks and Recreation (Parks) employee, two Public Works (DPW) employees, one Bloomington Police Department (BPD) employee, and one Bloomington Fire Department (BFD) employee.

Numerous infrastructure improvement projects are underway this season to advance community goals, including safety, sustainability, accessibility, equity, economic vitality, and quality of life in Bloomington. The City will provide regular public updates on a range of these improvements as they progress. City departments coordinate with one another, as well as with private developers, to minimize the impact on Bloomington residents and visitors.

The City of Bloomington is committed to sustainable transportation alternatives such as walking, biking, public transit, carpooling, vanpooling, micro-mobility and telecommuting. The goal is to reduce the number of single-occupant vehicles (SOVs) operating in town, which will decrease carbon emissions, relieve traffic congestion, and improve parking availability. The City of Bloomington is launching its new program - Go Bloomington. This event is free, family-friendly, and open to the public. 

Mayor John Hamilton will present a $229 million combined operating budget to the Bloomington City Council this evening with key investments in the city workforce and services, climate change preparedness and mitigation, housing, and public safety to improve the quality of life for all residents. The $229 million budget includes funding for the City of Bloomington, Bloomington Transit, Bloomington Housing Authority, and Utilities, and represents a 29% increase over the combined 2022 budget.  

In keeping with the Hamilton administration's commitments to transparency and accountability, this update offers the opportunity to monitor each City department's progress toward stated goals.

Numerous infrastructure improvement projects are underway this season to advance community goals, including safety, sustainability, accessibility, equity, economic vitality, and quality of life in Bloomington. The City will provide regular public updates on a range of these improvements as they progress. City departments coordinate with one another, as well as with private developers, to minimize the impact on Bloomington residents and visitors. 

Five City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 tests since the August 18 update, including one City Hall (City Hall) employee, one City of Bloomington Utilities (CBU) employee, two Parks and Recreation (Parks) employees, and one Bloomington Housing Authority (BHA) employee.

Bloomington Transit (BT), has been awarded $7 million from the federal government to add new electric buses to its fleet. Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Low or No Emission Program discretionary grant funds in the amount of $7,040,000 will be used for eight (8) zero emission Battery Electric Buses (BEB) needed for transit service expansion. The resources from the FTA project will provide the necessary capital funding for zero emission BEB’s to be used for service expansion. 

In an effort to expand the number of Bloomington Fire Department (BFD) firefighters living in the community they serve, the City of Bloomington is now offering a new housing incentives pilot program within BFD.

The City of Bloomington Information & Technology Services Department (ITS) announces the 2022 Digital Equity Grants awards to support Bloomington-based nonprofit organization efforts to bridge the digital divide and increase digital resources for residents. Now in its third year, this grant program began as part of Mayor John Hamilton’s Recover Forward initiative to help Bloomington recover from the pandemic and economic collapse, and advance racial, economic, and climate justice. Starting in 2022 these grants are funded from the ITS Department’s regular annual budget.

Five City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 tests since the August 11 update, including one City Hall (City Hall) employee, one Department of Public Works (DPW) employee, one Bloomington Police Department (BPD) employee, and three Bloomington Transit (BT) employees.

Numerous infrastructure improvement projects are underway this season to advance community goals, including safety, sustainability, accessibility, equity, economic vitality, and quality of life in Bloomington. The City will provide regular public updates on a range of these improvements as they progress. City departments coordinate with one another, as well as with private developers, to minimize the impact on Bloomington residents and visitors. 

Mayor Hamilton joins Democratic mayors across the nation in highlighting and addressing the increase in gun violence across the nation. In June of this year Congress passed and President Biden signed into law the Safer Communities Act, the first major gun reform legislation in 30 years and the sort of progress needed to improve our safety. This is why the Democratic Mayors Association (DMA), in partnership with the Center for American Progress Action Fund, announced Mayors Fight Back – A Week of Action Against Violent Crime for the week of August 15.

The City of Bloomington is accepting applications from community members who would like to serve on one of the following City boards or commissions:

Deadline to apply to sell artwork at the Holiday Market is Sept. 30, 2022.

Fourteen City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 tests since the August 4 update, including one Parks and Recreation (Parks) employee, four City Hall (City Hall) employees, two Department of Public Works (DPW) employees, two City of Bloomington Utilities (CBU) employees, three Bloomington Housing Authority (BHA) employees, one Bloomington Transit (BT) employee, and one Bloomington Fire Department (BFD) employee.

Numerous infrastructure improvement projects are underway this season to advance community goals, including safety, sustainability, accessibility, equity, economic vitality, and quality of life in Bloomington. The City will provide regular public updates on a range of these improvements as they progress. City departments coordinate with one another, as well as with private developers, to minimize the impact on Bloomington residents and visitors. 

The City of Bloomington encourages local artists of color to apply for participation in the Fourth Annual Bloomington Black y Brown Arts Festival (BBBAF), taking place Saturday, September 10, at the Switchyard Park Pavilion, with the performance stage beginning at 1 p.m.

The City of Bloomington has signed a contract with Constellation Stage & Screen that will allow the new theater and film company to lease the John Waldron Arts Center for five years.

The City of Bloomington, following the lead of The Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce, Visit Bloomington, and Downtown Bloomington, Inc., has submitted a proposal to the Monroe County Board of Commissioners and County Council for activating the Convention Center expansion.

Eight City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 tests since the July 28 update, including three Parks and Recreation (Parks) employees, one City Hall (City Hall) employee, two Bloomington Fire Department (BFD) employees, and two Bloomington Police Department (BPD) employees.

Numerous infrastructure improvement projects are underway this season to advance community goals, including safety, sustainability, accessibility, equity, economic vitality, and quality of life in Bloomington. The City will provide regular public updates on a range of these improvements as they progress. City departments coordinate with one another, as well as with private developers, to minimize impact to Bloomington residents and visitors. 

During its August 1 meeting, City of Bloomington Utilities (CBU) staff recommended to the Utilities Service Board Property and Planning subcommittee the potential relocation of the CBU Service Center to the former Winston Thomas Wastewater Treatment Plant site. After reviewing the Winston Thomas Site master plan (https://bton.in/VNvzu), including its proposal to relocate the service center, the subcommittee asked CBU staff to proceed with a preliminary financial analysis in anticipation of a possible project design study. 

The City of Bloomington Commission on the Status of Women announces the Women’s Achievement Celebration “Reflecting Back, Moving Forward,” which will take place on August 19, 2022 at the FAR Center for Contemporary Arts at 505 W 4th St in Bloomington.

The City of Bloomington invites community members to celebrate Urban Fabric, the art installation at the Fourth Street Garage. Guests are invited to see the artwork up close and enjoy music by the Sergio Ospina-Romero Trio.

Yellow groove bamboo (Phyllostachys aureosulcata) is included on the list of prohibited invasive plant species under the Unified Development Ordinance, adopted into Bloomington Municipal Code (BMC) in 2020 by the City Council. Under Title 6 of the BMC, it is unlawful for the owner of any lot or tract of ground within the city to plant or maintain, at a height in excess of eight inches, any plant species that is prohibited under federal, state, or local regulations. 

Fourteen City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 tests since the July 21 update, including one Utilities (CBU) employee, one Parks and Recreation (Parks) employee, two City Hall (City Hall) employees, two Bloomington Fire Department (BFD) employees, and eight Bloomington Police Department (BPD) employees.

Numerous infrastructure improvement projects are underway this season to advance community goals, including safety, sustainability, accessibility, equity, economic vitality, and quality of life in Bloomington. The City will provide regular public updates on a range of these improvements as they progress. City departments coordinate with one another, as well as with private developers, to minimize the impact on Bloomington residents and visitors. 

The City of Bloomington Commission on the Status of Black Males (CSBM) will join area fathers, father figures, caregivers, mentors, and role models to welcome students back to school in person on Wednesday, August 3 at 8:30 a.m. at Fairview Elementary School, 500 West 7th Street.  

Neighborhood residential parking permits for 2022-2023 are now available for purchase online. Residents in Neighborhood Parking Zones 1-6 & 9-11 may submit an application at bloomington.t2hosted.com.  

Ten City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 tests since the July 14 update, including four Utilities (CBU) employees, three Parks and Recreation (Parks) employees, two Public Works (DPW) employees, and one Bloomington Police Department (BPD) employee.

Numerous infrastructure improvement projects are underway this season to advance community goals, including safety, sustainability, accessibility, equity, economic vitality, and quality of life in Bloomington. The City will provide regular public updates on a range of these improvements as they progress. City departments coordinate with one another, as well as with private developers, to minimize the impact on Bloomington residents and visitors. 

The City of Bloomington’s Office of the Mayor is accepting applications from community members who would like to serve on one of the following City’s boards or commissions:

The City of Bloomington has made an accepted offer to purchase 320 W. 8th Street, a 64,000 square-foot section of the Showers Building where City Hall is currently located. City ownership of this section of the historic building could allow the Police Department and the Fire Department administration offices to be housed together, centrally located downtown and as part of City Hall. After both departments suffered major flood damage last summer, this consolidation would allow for new and improved facilities, as well as enhanced collaboration with other components of City Hall. 

Ten City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 tests since the July 7 update, including three Utilities (CBU) employees, two Parks and Recreation (Parks) employees, one City Hall employee, one Bloomington Fire Department (BFD) employee, one Bloomington Police Department (BPD) employee, one Bloomington Transit (BT) employee, and one Bloomington Housing Authority (BHA) employee.

Numerous infrastructure improvement projects are underway this season to advance community goals, including safety, sustainability, accessibility, equity, economic vitality, and quality of life in Bloomington. The City will provide regular public updates on a range of these improvements as they progress. City departments coordinate with one another, as well as with private developers, to minimize the impact on Bloomington residents and visitors. 

The City of Bloomington Council for Community Accessibility (CCA) invites community members to a celebration of the 32nd anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The event will also celebrate the anniversary of Bloomington’s Council for Community Accessibility (CCA), founded in 1990 shortly before the ADA was signed into law. This event is free and open to the public.  

Bloomington Fire Department and the City of Bloomington commemorate the life and mourn the loss of active firefighter Robert “Bob” Loviscek, Jr.

Selected applicant will represent the golfing community.

Four City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 tests since the June 30 update, including one Public Works (DPW) employee, one Parks and Recreation (Parks) employee, one City Hall employee, and one Bloomington Fire Department (BFD) employee.

Numerous infrastructure improvement projects are underway this season to advance community goals, including safety, sustainability, accessibility, equity, economic vitality, and quality of life in Bloomington. The City will provide regular public updates on a range of these improvements as they progress. City departments coordinate with one another, as well as with private developers, to minimize the impact on Bloomington residents and visitors. 

Six City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 tests since the June 23 update, including one Bloomington Housing Authority (BHA) employee, two Parks and Recreation (Parks) employees, two City Hall employees, and one Bloomington Police Department (BPD) employee.

Numerous infrastructure improvement projects are underway this season to advance community goals, including safety, sustainability, accessibility, equity, economic vitality, and quality of life in Bloomington. The City will provide regular public updates on a range of these improvements as they progress. City departments coordinate with one another, as well as with private developers, to minimize the impact on Bloomington residents and visitors. 

The Fourth of July Parade begins at 10 a.m. Monday, July 4.

Mayor John Hamilton issues the following statement: “Earlier today a radical conservative majority of the US Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, pushing women’s reproductive privacy and options to the states.

Six City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 tests since the June 13 update, including one Utilities (CBU) employee, two Parks and Recreation (Parks) employees, two City Hall employees, and one Bloomington Fire Department (BFD) employee.

Numerous infrastructure improvement projects are underway this season to advance community goals, including safety, sustainability, accessibility, equity, economic vitality, and quality of life in Bloomington. The City will provide regular public updates on a range of these improvements as they progress. City departments coordinate with one another, as well as with private developers, to minimize the impact on Bloomington residents and visitors. 

The City of Bloomington’s Office of the Mayor is accepting applications from community members who would like to serve on one of the following City’s boards or commissions:

Ten City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 tests since the June 9 update, including one Bloomington Transit (BT) employee, five Parks and Recreation (Parks) employees, one City Hall employee, and three Bloomington Police Department (BPD) employees.

Numerous infrastructure improvement projects are underway this season to advance community goals, including safety, sustainability, accessibility, equity, economic vitality, and quality of life in Bloomington. The City will provide regular public updates on a range of these improvements as they progress. City departments coordinate with one another, as well as with private developers, to minimize impact to Bloomington residents and visitors. 

The City of Bloomington Utilities (CBU) has launched an infrastructure project to identify all active lead (Pb) water service lines in its distribution system. The Service Line Inventory (SLI) is a new requirement of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for municipal utilities with the goal of identifying lead service lines by October 2024 that remain active on both the private and public side of the water distribution system.

Five City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 tests since the June 2 update, including one Public Works (DPW) employee, two Utilities (CBU) employees, one City Hall employee, and one Bloomington Police Department (BPD) employee.

Numerous infrastructure improvement projects are underway this season to advance community goals, including safety, sustainability, accessibility, equity, economic vitality, and quality of life in Bloomington. The City will provide regular public updates on a range of these improvements as they progress. City departments coordinate with one another, as well as with private developers, to minimize impact to Bloomington residents and visitors. 

The City of Bloomington and Indiana University Neal-Marshall Black Culture Center will host a Juneteenth celebration on Saturday, June 18, from 2:00 - 7 p.m. at Switchyard Park (1601 South Rogers Street).

Mayor John Hamilton and RealAmerica invite community members to attend a groundbreaking for Retreat @ the Switchyard. Located next to Switchyard Park, Retreat @ the Switchyard will provide a mix of supportive and affordable housing as well as market-rate units in a new apartment building at 1730 South Walnut Street. 

City of Bloomington Utilities (CBU) published their annual drinking water quality report, providing information about local drinking water quality, data from tests conducted the previous year, and contact information for any questions or concerns.

Mayor John Hamilton announced today that the City of Bloomington will receive pro bono support from a team of Google.org Fellows to deploy CiviForm, a tool to simplify and centralize online applications for government assistance programs. CiviForm is an open-source tool developed originally by the City of Seattle with support from Google.org to make applying for government programs easier and faster. 

Numerous infrastructure improvement projects are underway this season to advance community goals, including safety, sustainability, accessibility, equity, economic vitality, and quality of life in Bloomington. The City will provide regular public updates on a range of these improvements as they progress.

Five City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 tests since the May 26 update, including two Public Works (DPW) employees, one Utilities (CBU) employee, one Parks and Recreation (Parks) employee, and one Bloomington Transit (BT) employee. 

The City of Bloomington invites the community to observe National Gun Violence Awareness Day on Friday, June 3, and join in events raising awareness about gun violence during Wear Orange weekend.

The City of Bloomington Street Division is conducting a citywide survey that will assess the current condition of streets, sidepaths, sidewalks and accessible curb ramps. This project builds upon a similar effort that was last performed in 2017 by Public Works with the support of the Office of Innovation and will update the now five-year-old condition data for these important transportation assets.  

The City of Bloomington’s Office of the Mayor is accepting applications from community members who would like to serve on the Board of Public Works.

Eleven City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 tests since the May 19 update, including three Public Works (DPW) employees, one Utilities (CBU) employee, two Bloomington Police Department (BFD) employees, one Parks and Recreation (Parks) employee, one Bloomington Housing Authority (BHA) employee, and three Bloomington Fire Department (BFD) employees. 

Numerous infrastructure improvement projects are underway this season to advance community goals, including safety, sustainability, accessibility, equity, economic vitality, and quality of life in Bloomington. The City will provide regular public updates on a range of these improvements as they progress.

The Bloomington Fire Department (BFD) recognized 55 firefighters for exceptional service to the community during 2021. The annual event is routinely conducted on the anniversary date of BFD becoming a professional fire department on February 17, 1900. This year, however, the event was delayed due to COVID. The presentation occurred at 4 p.m. on May 20, 2022 at the Switchyard Park Pavilion.    

The Future of Policing Task Force (FPTF) has released a report covering the first nine months of their work. This report covers the methodologies used for gathering data, challenges faced by the task force, as well as initial recommendations that were submitted to Mayor John Hamilton in late April. 

In an effort to continue strong connections with the neighborhoods of Bloomington, the Bloomington Police Department (BPD) will begin conducting mobile roll calls throughout the City. As officers begin each of the three work shifts in a day, they meet together at roll call to receive specific assignments and any pertinent information for the day. Members of the community are invited to attend when they see the Mobile Field Office truck, to communicate their concerns with officers and to meet the people patrolling their neighborhoods.

Five City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 laboratory tests since the May 12 update, including one City Hall employee, three Public Works (DPW) employees, and one Bloomington Fire Department (BFD) employee. 

In an effort to attract the highest quality candidates, the City of Bloomington is now offering several new incentives within the Bloomington Police Department (BPD). Significant salary increases were agreed upon through the collective bargaining process, and are reflected in the recently approved contract between the City of Bloomington and the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP). 

Numerous infrastructure improvement projects are underway this season to advance community goals, including safety, sustainability, accessibility, equity, economic vitality, and quality of life in Bloomington. The City will provide regular public updates on a range of these improvements as they progress.

The Bloomington Human Rights Commission selected founder and executive director of My Sister’s Closet, Sandy Keller, as the recipient of its 2022 Human Rights Award.

Rose Hill hosts a Veterans Memorial Day service May 30.

The Bloomington Human Rights Commission (BHRC) announced the winners of its annual essay/art contest for area students in grades K-6 and will host an awards ceremony for the winners at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 17, at City Hall. Mayor John Hamilton will present the awards to this year’s winners. 

Since the City's announcement of its intent to partner with Meridiam to deploy Gigabit class fiber internet services, we have received questions from City residents. Here's an FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) page to help answer common questions.

Infrastructure company Meridiam and the City of Bloomington announced today that Meridiam plans to invest more than $50 million to bring high-speed internet access to virtually every neighborhood and resident in the City. Meridiam will build and operate an open-access-model fiber network, embodying net neutrality, with a strong emphasis on digital equity. The City of Bloomington will partner in the digital equity components with up to a $1 million investment. 

Numerous infrastructure improvement projects are underway this season to advance community goals, including safety, sustainability, accessibility, equity, economic vitality, and quality of life in Bloomington. The City will provide regular public updates on a range of these improvements as they progress.

Two City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 laboratory tests since the May 6 update, including one City Hall employee and one Bloomington Police Department (BPD) employee. 

The City of Bloomington’s Office of the Mayor is accepting applications from community members who would like to serve on one of the following City’s boards or commissions:

The City of Bloomington invites community members to Twilight at the Trades, an event celebrating the Aurora Almanac art installation at the Trades District Garage. Guests are invited to see the artwork up close, enjoy empanadas from Maíz Comida Colombiana, and experience music and performance. 

The City of Bloomington Department of Housing and Neighborhood Development (HAND), in partnership with the Housing and Eviction Prevention Project (HEPP), will host a Tenant Resource Fair in City Hall Council Chambers (room 115), 401 N Morton St. on Saturday, May 21 from 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

The City received no reports of employees having received positive COVID-19 test results since employee cases were last announced on Thursday, April 28.  

Numerous infrastructure improvement projects are underway this season to advance community goals, including safety, sustainability, accessibility, equity, economic vitality, and quality of life in Bloomington. The City will provide regular public updates on a range of these improvements as they progress.

All nine members of the Bloomington Common Council voted yesterday to enact an Economic Development Local Income Tax (ED-LIT) that will fund a range of critical measures across public safety, essential city services, climate change preparedness, and mitigation including major public transit enhancements, and equity and quality of life for all. The funds raised by the ED-LIT will allow the City to address future critical needs and meet fundamental obligations to its residents, present and future. 

The City of Bloomington will celebrate the opening reception of a new art exhibition at the John Waldron Arts Center on Friday, May 6 from 5-8 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. 

Seven Bloomington community members will be honored in an invitation-only presentation of the Be More Awards from 3:30-4:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 5.  Recipients will be presented with their award by Mayor John Hamilton and with a $1000 cash award for their host organization from Tina Peterson of the Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County.

Bloomington Transit (BT) is announcing the delay of a plan to replace late evening service on most routes, with those trips to be provided through partnerships with Uber and Lyft. The new service delivery method was originally announced to take effect on May 9, 2022, and has been delayed to June 2022.

Three City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 laboratory tests since the April 21 update, including one Bloomington Fire Department (BFD) employee, one Bloomington Police Department (BPD) employee, and three City Hall employees.

The City of Bloomington has been selected as one of 13 international cities participating in the Bloomberg Center for Public Innovation (CPI) at Johns Hopkins University’s 2022 Innovation Training program, which will provide consulting, training, and networking to address a key issue facing its residents. 

The City of Bloomington Department of Housing and Neighborhood Development (HAND) invites residents to apply for the 2022 Residents Academy, to be held on ten consecutive Thursday evenings from August 25th to October 27th, from 6-8 p.m.

The Bloomington City Council on Wednesday evening approved two five-year $5 million general obligation (G.O.) bonds to invest in important Bloomington infrastructure projects spread across the community.

The City received no reports of employees having received positive COVID-19 test results since employee cases were last announced on Thursday, April 14.  

The City of Bloomington invites nonprofit organizations to apply for funding to support their efforts to bridge the digital divide and increase digital resources for residents.  The Digital Equity Grants program will award $50,000 in funds to Bloomington-based nonprofits, with 2022 proposals accepted digitally Monday, May 2 through 5 p.m. on Friday, June 10 at bloomington.in.gov/digital-equity

This morning brought very exciting news: Catalent Pharma Solutions has formally signed an agreement to bring a $350 million expansion to Bloomington, including at least 1,000 new high-quality jobs paying an average of $32 per hour. 

City of Bloomington Utilities (CBU) has received the 2022 Education and Outreach Award from the Indiana Association for Floodplain and Stormwater Management (INAFSM). Established in 2015, this award recognizes an outstanding program promoting the advancement of education regarding stormwater management. CBU was recognized specifically for its Residential Stormwater Grants Program. 

The City of Bloomington’s Office of the Mayor is accepting applications from community members who would like to serve on one of the following City boards or commissions:

Three City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 laboratory tests since the April 8 update, including one Parks & Recreation (Parks) employee, one Utilities (CBU) employee, and one City Hall employee.

The Future of Policing Task Force invites community members to a public forum via Zoom on Monday, April 18, 2022, from 6-7:30 p.m. The forum is an opportunity for residents throughout the community to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences regarding law enforcement in Bloomington and Monroe County.

One City worker from the Department of Public Works (DPW) reported positive results of COVID-19 laboratory tests since the March 24 update. 

Mayor John Hamilton will ask the Bloomington Common Council to implement an increase to the Monroe County Local Income Tax (LIT) by 0.855% for the purposes of economic development and to adopt two $5 million general obligation (G.O.) bonds to invest in local infrastructure. Mayor Hamilton will present the proposed increase and bonds to the Council this evening at their regular session beginning at 6:30 p.m. 

The City has contracted with Trahan Architects to conduct an arts feasibility study in Bloomington following Mayor Hamilton’s commitment to a study announced in May 2021 as part of the Recover Forward initiative to help the community recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. The study will include an evaluation of arts facilities and activities in the City and result in a report of recommended strategies for successfully advancing the arts across the City.

Today the City of Bloomington filed a lawsuit in Monroe County challenging the validity of a 2019 law that retroactively voided eighty percent of Bloomington’s sewer extension contracts. The 2019 law purports to nullify hundreds of contracts that allow non-municipal residents to connect to the City’s sewer system in exchange for those residents waiving their right to contest a future annexation.

The City invites residents to apply for an upcoming vacancy on the Bloomington Redevelopment Commission (RDC). The RDC oversees housing and neighborhood development, investigates opportunities for economic development and redevelopment in the city of Bloomington, and creates economic development areas, areas needing redevelopment, and Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts.

Mayor at the Market is a community outreach program that invites Market-goers to interact with the mayor and various department heads from the City of Bloomington government. Most Saturday mornings, either Mayor Hamilton, Deputy Mayor Don Griffin, or one of nineteen department heads will be at the Farmers' Market to answer resident questions and discuss issues of interest in the city.

Two City workers from the Department of Public Works (DPW) and the Parks and Recreation Department (Parks) have reported positive results of COVID-19 laboratory tests since the March 10 update.

Mayor John Hamilton has shared a proposal with the Bloomington City Council outlining the need for new revenue. 

The City of Bloomington and the Bloomington Economic Development Corporation (BEDC) invite the public to an information-sharing event for the Trades District Technology Center, which is funded in part by a $3.5 million Economic Development Administration CARES Act Recovery Assistance Grant awarded in 2021.

The City of Bloomington’s Office of the Mayor is accepting applications from community members who would like to serve on one of the following City’s boards or commissions

One City worker from the Bloomington Fire Department (BFD) has reported positive results of COVID-19 laboratory tests since the February 25 update. 

The City of Bloomington’s Environmental Commission is announcing its annual Eco-Heroes Art Contest. The 10th annual art contest is calling on all amateur artists to submit art showcasing their creativity and appreciation of the natural environment. This year’s theme is “Fighting Fragmentation!,” which asks artists to learn about, and present artistic pieces related to the benefits connecting native habitats can have on wildlife and plant species alike. 

The City of Bloomington’s Department of Economic and Sustainable Development, in partnership with EarthKeepers, is providing support for restaurants and retail food establishments to reduce and divert food waste from the landfill through the newly created Compost Up Downtown program. 

The City of Bloomington and the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) have reached a contingent agreement on the terms of a new collective bargaining agreement, which includes unprecedented investments in public safety. The new contract would govern salaries and benefits for FOP members for four years starting in 2023.

The City of Bloomington will celebrate the reopening of the John Waldron Arts Center on Friday, March 4 from 5-8 p.m. The event is free and open to the public*. 

City of Bloomington Mayor John Hamilton encourages all community members to nominate outstanding volunteers for the Be More Awards, the community volunteer awards presented by the City of Bloomington Volunteer Network, a program of the City of Bloomington Community and Family Resources Department. Nominations are being accepted now through Monday, March 21 at bloomingtonvolunteernetwork.org/bemore. 

Four City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 laboratory tests since the February 17 update, including two Bloomington Police Department (BPD) employees, one Bloomington Fire Department (BFD) employee, and one Bloomington Housing Authority (BHA) employee. 

Mayor John Hamilton presents his seventh annual State of the City address to the community at the Buskirk Chumley Theater*. All are invited to attend the free event. Complementing the Mayor’s remarks, the work of local artists will be showcased, including live music poetry readings, and a video presentation of community portraits. The event will be convened and adjourned by the Bloomington Common Council, for which it serves as an official meeting.

The City of Bloomington invites the community to attend the 18th Annual Black History Month Gala, which will take place on Saturday, February 26, beginning at 6 p.m. The ticketed, public event will be held over Zoom video conferencing, with e-ticket reservations available in advance through the Buskirk-Chumley Theater, online at bctboxoffice.org, or by phone at 812-323-3020.  

Five City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 laboratory tests since the February 10 update, including one Parks & Recreation (Parks) employee, one Bloomington Police Department (BPD) employee, one Utilities (CBU) employee, one Department of Public Works (DPW) employee, and one City Hall employee.

Street fair-style festival to take place on Fourth Street between Dunn Street and Grant Street and in the Dunkirk Square parking lot.

As part of Mayor John Hamilton’s Recover Forward initiative, the City of Bloomington’s Department of Economic and Sustainable Development is providing support for organizations to improve building efficiency through the 2022 Solar and Energy Efficiency Loan (SEEL) Program. 

Sibling Cities USA and the cities of Palo Alto, California, and Bloomington, Indiana are hosting a virtual kickoff for the first-ever Sibling Cities relationship on Tuesday, February 15 at 12 p.m. EST.

The City of Bloomington Economic Development Commission has recommended that the Bloomington Common Council approve a proposed tax abatement associated with investments being considered at Catalent’s South Patterson Drive facility that would potentially add up to 1,000 new biotech jobs in Bloomington over the next five years. 

Nine City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 laboratory tests since the February 3 update, including four Parks & Recreation (Parks) employees, two Bloomington Police Department (BPD) employees, one Utilities (CBU) employee, and two City Hall employees.

Mayor John Hamilton announced today that, following months of research, planning, and preparation, 304 locations in four different project areas in Bloomington have been identified to provide a more equitable urban canopy for all residents. These projects are part of the continuing Bicentennial Bond program the City Council and administration sponsored to invest in the future, in honor of our 200th birthday in 2018.

On Friday, February 4, the City of Bloomington submitted its last responses to Monroe County Auditor Cathy Smith detailing which annexation remonstrators own properties subject to remonstrance waivers. 

Bloomington Mayor John Hamilton invites the press and the public to attend the sixth annual joint Public Safety Report to the Community. The online presentation will update the community on the state of public safety in Bloomington, and the City’s continuous efforts to improve it.

The City of Bloomington is pleased to announce that “Hopewell” will be the name for the new neighborhood to be created following the decommissioning and demolition of the former IU Health Bloomington campus on West 2nd Street. The Hopewell name has a long history of association with the site.

Fourteen City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 laboratory tests since the January 27 update, including one Parks & Recreation (Parks) employee, one Bloomington Police Department (BPD) employee, three Utilities (CBU) employees, six City Hall employees, one Bloomington Fire Department (BFD) employee, one Bloomington Transit (BT) employee, and one Department of Public Works (DPW) employee. 

The City of Bloomington released an organizational assessment report of its appointed boards and commissions today. Last year, Mayor John Hamilton directed that an independent, third-party assessment of the board and commission structure be undertaken to review and assess their scope, structure, and required resources. The recommendations in the report are intended to build upon the boards and commissions’ many existing contributions and enhance the City’s community-focused approach to decision-making and operations. 

In consideration of the predicted approaching winter storm, the closure of the Hoosier Disposal transfer facility, and the potential for significant snow or ice accumulation, the City of Bloomington Sanitation Division has announced that trash and recycling collection will be suspended on Thursday, February 3, 2022. 

City crews will begin installing street signs denoting the new Eagleson Avenue name this week. Eagleson Avenue will officially become the new name for Jordan Avenue from Davis Street to 17th Street tomorrow, February 1.

The City of Bloomington invites the community to kick-off this year’s Black History Month celebration on February 1 at 6 p.m. at the FAR Center for Contemporary Arts (505 W 4th St, Bloomington, IN 47404). The event begins with a reception at 6 p.m. and the program and livestream (link below) begins promptly at 6:30 p.m. Masks, proof of vaccination, or a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of the event are required. The event is free and open to the public.

Proposals from food and beverage artisans and applications from farmers due Feb. 21.

Thirty City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 laboratory tests since the January 20 update, including one Parks & Recreation (Parks) employee, two Bloomington Police Department (BPD) employees, seven Utilities (CBU) employees, five City Hall employees, two Bloomington Fire Department (BFD) employees, two Bloomington Transit (BT) employees, four Department of Public Works (DPW) employees, and seven employees of the Bloomington Housing Authority (BHA). 

On Wednesday, a Federal District Court ruled in favor of the City of Bloomington in Schooner Creek Farms v City of Bloomington. The court rejected all the claims brought by the plaintiffs, awarding summary judgment to the City, Parks Administrator Paula McDevitt, and former Farmers’ Market Coordinator Marcia Veldman.

hirty-eight City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 laboratory tests since the January 13 update, including three Parks & Recreation (Parks) employees, four Bloomington Police Department (BPD) employees, five Utilities (CBU) employees, four City Hall employees, nine Bloomington Fire Department (BFD) employees, one Bloomington Transit (BT) employee, six Department of Public Works (DPW) employees, and six employees of the Bloomington Housing Authority (BHA). 

The City of Bloomington Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Commission (BPSC) is seeking proposals for resident-led projects to install traffic-calming devices on neighborhood and residential streets. 

The City of Bloomington Commission on the Status of Women is seeking nominees for the 2022 Woman of the Year, Toby Strout Lifetime Contribution, Emerging Leader and Young Woman of the Year awards. Although nominations for these awards are accepted year-around, the deadline for submission of nominations for 2022 is February 11. The awards will be presented during Women’s History Month in March 2022.  

Twenty City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 laboratory tests since the January 6 update, including four Parks & Recreation (Parks) employees, three Bloomington Police Department (BPD) employees, four Utilities (CBU) employees, one City Hall employee, three Bloomington Fire Department (BFD) employees, three Bloomington Transit (BT) employees, and two employees of the Department of Public Works (DPW). 

The City of Bloomington Housing and Neighborhood Development (HAND) Department has issued an “Unsafe Building Order to Repair” to the owners of the property at 400 W. 7th St. The order was issued specifically for the 140-foot-tall Johnson Creamery smokestack located on the property, pursuant to Bloomington Municipal Code Chapter 17.16 and Indiana Code Chapter 36-7-9. 

Submit an application online by Feb. 25 for full consideration.

The City of Bloomington invites the community to the 2022 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday Celebration, Monday, January 17 at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater*. The event will include remarks by Deputy Mayor Don Griffin, members of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday Celebration Commission, and others starting at 7 p.m. 

Fourteen City workers have reported positive results of COVID-19 laboratory tests since the December 30 update, including two Parks & Recreation (Parks) employees, one Bloomington Police Department (BPD) employee, two Utilities (CBU) employees, two City Hall employees, three Bloomington Fire Department (BFD) employees, two Bloomington Housing Authority (BHA) employees, and two employees of the Department of Public Works (DPW). 

In anticipation of the extreme cold temperatures over the next few days, the City of Bloomington advises residents for their safety to avoid prolonged outdoor exposure, and to check on elderly family members and neighbors often to assure their safety.  

The Waldron Arts Center will reopen on January 4 for use by the public and visual and performing artists. This follows a 21 month closure, during which time the City of Bloomington completed repairs to both stabilize and upgrade the facility.