Bloomington, Ind. - The City’s Housing and Neighborhood Development (HAND) Department and the Council of Neighborhood Associations (CONA) are hosting a “Neighborhood Workshop” on Saturday, February 3, from 10:00 a.m. to noon in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 401 N Morton. This event, which was rescheduled for February 3 after a mid-January weather event, is free and open to the public.

Drop in anytime between 10:00 a.m. and noon to chat with representatives from the City of Bloomington, Indiana University and various neighborhood organizations about the following topics:

• Neighborhood Grants: learn about the array of grants available for neighborhood cleanup, activities, or capital improvements.

• Code Enforcement: learn about the City's rental inspection, weeds, trash and snow removal codes and how they are enforced. Also learn about the City's Unified Development Ordinance.

• Historic Preservation: determine if your house is within a historic district, if it is individually designated, and what regulations govern these types of properties.

• Housing Programs: do you, a relative or friend need to make a home repair or modification, but are not sure how to cover the cost? You may be eligible for assistance through a grant and/or loan housing program.

• Housing Counseling: explore certified housing counseling services for residents seeking to buy their first home or to prevent foreclosure on their existing home.

• Bloomington Police Department: learn about Neighborhood Watch programs, and find out what constitutes suspicious activity and how to report it to the Bloomington Police Department.

• Neighborhood Communications and Organizing: gather support for your neighborhood, from organizing a neighborhood association to communicating effectively with your neighbors.

• Indiana University Dean of Students Office: ask questions about IU’s policies for off-campus students and support services (counseling services, student legal services, alcohol and drug education, and the IU Police Department).

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