Bloomington City Council — Transcript
Monday, September 9, 2024
Story
Bloomington approves 11.5% property tax increase for 2025
Human Rights Commission Appointments
2025 Preliminary Tax Levy and General Fund Budget
Property Assessment Hearings (Nuisance, Tree, Weed, Delinquent Utilities, Civil Fines)
Opportunity Housing Ordinance (OHO) Update
Votes (18)
Proclamation for Suicide Prevention Month and Week (Item 2.1)
Moved by N/A · Seconded by N/A
Mayor Bussey read a proclamation recognizing Suicide Prevention Month and Week, highlighting the importance of prevention, reducing stigma, and available resources like 988 and the SAVE organization. Katie Zero from the Police Department shared insights on the Bloomington Cares Team's efforts and the personal impact of suicide.
Human Rights Commission Appointment (Mid-term) (Item 2.2)
Moved by Unknown [0:12] · Seconded by Councilmember Lowman [0:12]
The discussion centered on a single applicant for a mid-term vacancy on the Human Rights Commission. Councilmember Nelson raised concerns about the limited applicant pool for this special appointment, suggesting it would be more beneficial to wait for the general appointment process in the spring to attract a wider range of candidates.
Human Rights Commission Young Adult Member Appointment (Item 2.3)
Moved by Councilmember Carter [0:19] · Seconded by Councilmember Lowman [0:19]
The council considered four candidates for young adult appointments to the Human Rights Commission. Councilmember Nelson clarified that this process is standard for youth members due to the school year schedule. Councilmember Rivas inquired about the opportunity to meet applicants in person. Two individuals were appointed after a roll-call vote.
Consent Business and Donations (Item 3.3)
Moved by Councilmember Nelson [0:23] · Seconded by Councilmember Lowman [0:23]
Councilmember Nelson pulled Item 3.3, Donations, from the consent agenda to specifically recognize various contributions. Donations included over $10,000 for Summer Flat, support for the Animal Shelter, a joint community police partnership, a donation from Daniel Matlock and the Cheapskate Golfers, Centerpoint Energy for smoke detectors, and Bundles of Love for infants.
Resolution Adopting Preliminary 2025 Tax Levy (Item 4.1)
Dissent: Councilmember Dallessandro expressed hope that the final levy number in December would be lower than the preliminary 11.5%.
Moved by Councilmember Lowman [1:06] · Seconded by Councilmember Rivas [1:06]
CFO Carlson presented the proposed 11.5% preliminary tax levy increase, achieved after $3.5 million in reductions from an initial 15.94% request. Discussions focused heavily on the significant portion (65%) of the increase dedicated to public safety, the long-term vision for the fire department's transition to full-time, and concerns about future levy impacts. Councilmembers debated increasing the preliminary levy to allow for more flexibility or reallocating funds within the 11.5% target.
Resolution Adopting Preliminary 2025 General Fund Budget (Item 4.2)
Moved by Councilmember Lowman [1:08] · Seconded by Councilmember Rivas [1:08]
This resolution formally adopted the preliminary 2025 General Fund Budget, which aligns with the 11.5% preliminary tax levy increase set in the preceding item. No additional discussion beyond its direct relation to the tax levy.
Public Hearing Regarding Public Nuisance Abatement Assessments (Item 4.3)
Moved by Councilmember Carter [1:27] · Seconded by Councilmember Dallessandro [1:27]
CFO Connolly provided an overview of public nuisance abatements, defining them as property conditions affecting public peace, welfare, and safety. City Attorney Mendoza explained the robust administrative hearing process designed to achieve compliance rather than punitive outcomes. Mayor Bussey emphasized the city's focus on enforcing code and working towards compliance. No public speakers came forward.
Resolution Adopting The Assessment Role For Public Nuisance Abatements (Item 4.3)
Moved by Councilmember Carter [1:28] · Seconded by Councilmember Dallessandro [1:28]
Following the public hearing, the Council proceeded to adopt the resolution for the assessment role of public nuisance abatements.
Public Hearing Regarding Tree Removal Assessments (Item 4.4)
Moved by Councilmember Moura [1:29] · Seconded by Councilmember Lowman [1:29]
The hearing covered assessments for the removal of dead, diseased, or hazardous trees. CFO Connolly explained the city offers 3-year and 5-year levy options for residents to pay. Councilmember Lowman requested future data on the demographics (e.g., house value) of residents utilizing this program to understand who benefits, while Councilmember Rivas questioned the cost advantage of using the city's contractor. No public speakers.
Resolution Adopting The Assessment Role For Delinquent Tree Removal Costs (Three Year Levy) (Item 4.4)
Moved by Councilmember Lowman [1:31] · Seconded by Councilmember Rivas [1:31]
Following the public hearing, the Council adopted the resolution for the assessment role of delinquent tree removal costs under the three-year levy option.
Resolution Adopting The Assessment Role For Delinquent Tree Removal Costs (Five Year Levy) (Item 4.4)
Moved by Councilmember Lowman [1:31] · Seconded by Councilmember Carter [1:31]
Following the public hearing, the Council adopted the resolution for the assessment role of delinquent tree removal costs under the five-year levy option.
Public Hearing Regarding Weed And Brush Removal Assessments (Item 4.5)
Moved by Councilmember Dallessandro [1:32] · Seconded by Councilmember Carter [1:32]
CFO Connolly presented general statistics on weed and brush removal assessments. No specific discussion points were raised by the Council or public. No public speakers.
Resolution Adopting Assessment Role For Weed And Brush Removal Costs (Item 4.5)
Moved by Councilmember Dallessandro [1:33] · Seconded by Councilmember Carter [1:33]
Following the public hearing, the Council adopted the resolution for the assessment role of weed and brush removal costs.
Public Hearing Regarding Delinquent Utilities Assessments (Item 4.6)
Moved by Councilmember Lowman [1:34] · Seconded by Councilmember Dallessandro [1:34]
Councilmember Dallessandro expressed significant concern over the rising number of delinquent utility assessments, describing it as a 'canary in the coal mine' for residents' financial stress. He requested further analysis on the reasons for the uptick and potential socioeconomic factors. The Mayor agreed on the need for more data, and clarification was provided that these costs are eventually recovered through property taxes, incurring a 'carry cost' to the city. No public speakers.
Resolution Adopting The Assessment Role For Delinquent Utilities (Item 4.6)
Moved by Councilmember Dallessandro [1:38] · Seconded by Councilmember Rivas [1:38]
Following the public hearing, the Council adopted the resolution for the assessment role of delinquent utility costs.
Public Hearing Regarding Civil Fines For Property Related Violation Assessments (Item 4.7)
Dissent: Raj One (citizen) expressed strong vocal disagreement with the decision after the vote, stating 'This is ridiculous. You are adding $50 on top of it. There was no point sitting here for 3 hours and I didn't get anything.'
Moved by Councilmember Lowman [1:49] · Seconded by Councilmember Rivas [1:49]
A citizen, Raj One, spoke on behalf of Amendola Darcy, appealing a $350 civil fine for an oversized trailer violation. Raj One claimed confusion about compliance requirements despite previous agreements and a waiver. City staff (City Attorney and City Manager) detailed a history of non-compliance with multiple administrative agreements and code. Council discussion focused on upholding established processes and findings of the administrative hearing officer.
Resolution Adopting The Assessment Role For Unpaid Civil Penalties And Fines (Item 4.7)
Moved by Councilmember Lowman [1:52] · Seconded by Councilmember Dallessandro [1:52]
Following the public hearing, the Council adopted the resolution to include the unpaid civil penalties and fines, including the specific case of Amendola Darcy's oversized trailer violation, in the assessment roll.
Opportunity Housing Ordinance Update (Item 5.1)
Moved by N/A · Seconded by N/A
City Manager highlighted Bloomington's leadership in affordable housing, stating the Opportunity Housing Ordinance has resulted in 639 units, meeting 82% of the 2030 goal. Kenny Niemeyer, Housing Development Specialist, provided details on HUD income limits, noting rent maximums for 80% AMI remained stable year-over-year. He also mentioned that all 11 projects approved under OHO have utilized parking stall reductions.
Notable Quotes (19)
The City Of Bloomington Is Committed To Ensuring That Those In Need Have Access To Services By Health Care Providers Trained In Best Practices To Reduce Suicide Risk And To Reducing The Stigma Associated Using Behavioral Health Treatment Or Losing A Loved One To Suicide.
This Work To Bring Awareness And Lessen The Stigma Around Suicide Is So Important. Suicide Prevention Starts With Recognizing Warning Signs And Taking Them Seriously. However, Talking To Someone About These Signs And Symptoms Can Feel Extremely Difficult If You'Re Unsure Whether Someone Is Suicidal. The Best Way To Find Out Is To Ask If You'Re Unsure. Asking Them Doesn'T Cause Them To Be More Suicidal. It Just Shows That You Care.
I Just Think It'S My Opinion Is It Might Be Beneficial To Wait And Just Do You Know Take A Look At The Entire Community Who Wants To Do That. I Assume There Will Be Potentially Other Openings There And Strongly This Individual To Apply But That'S My Understanding Of The Situation And Just Kind Of My Thoughts Initially On That
I Just Want For That Just Heard My Comments On The Previous One. This Is The Process Because These Are Youth Members And It Has To Do With The School Year. So This Is Our Normal Process Just So That People Think There'S A Different Way We'Re Handling This.
Thank You Mayor And Thank You To The Bloomington Community For Their Generosity I'D Like To Recognize We Receive Donations From Individuals Businesses For Over $10,000 For Summer Flat. That'S Fantastic So Thank You For That. It'S Something I'Ve Been Asking For That We Keep Taking A Look At Ways To Generate Revenues On Some Of These Events And So That Was Great To See
Police And Fire Are About 6 Million Of The Total $9.25 Million And So That'S 65% That'S Two Thirds Basically. And As I As I Recall I Think Two Years Ago I Think Police And Fire When We Were Talking About The The Increase I Think The Police And Fire Were 80% Of The Increase And I Believe Last Year It Was Also In The Sixties.
Most People Are Not Tuning Into Our Budget Discussions And Hearing From Us Directly But For The Ones Who Are Today Just A Reminder That We Started Down This Road A Couple Of Years Ago With The Commitment To Transition To A Full Time Hybrid Fire Department That Would Ultimately Have Somewhere In The Neighborhood Of 75 Full Time Firefighters And 60 To 75 Part Time Firefighters And Have Been On A Significant Staffing Upswing Since That Time
I Don't Think That The I Don't Think That There's A Guarantee. Correct Me If I'm Wrong That That Any Of Those Numbers That Reduce The The Levy By 3.5 Million Are The Numbers We Have To Use Either To Reduce The Thing Like In Other Words, Would You Mind Moving It To That Screen Just A Second If You Don't Mind. Sorry Guys. I Apologize. It Called Perfect. Yeah, Thanks. Yeah, The Reductions That Make There. Yeah. So This Is Approaches Lower The Levy Rate And I Think What You're Saying That You Wanted To Do Was To Adjust The Staffing From 8 To 6 Or Whatever. I Totally Understand But Like I Look At This Three And A Half Million And I Say They've Gone Through It At A Very High Level. There's Some Places There's Some Areas In The Budget That We Could Choose To Cut. I Don't Feel Like By Passing A 7.5% Levy Tonight Or Some Number Higher Or Lower Or Making Them Choose Things Explicitly And Maybe I Don't Have That Correct. Mr. Mayor But There We Can Still Have The Argument About Whether Or Not We Want Them To Keep The $565,000 In There For The The Fire Department And Find That $565,000 Elsewhere Through Cuts Or Other Expenditure, You Know, Deletions Or Reductions Without Changing Whether Or Not It It It's A 3.5 $3.5 Million Levy Reduction, Correct.
I Appreciate That Because That's Exactly What I'm Trying To Keep Down At The Table Ever Every And Saying The Same Thing Maybe One Of These Years I'll I'll Get It And It Will Be Up To 20% But We Will Get It. Professional Services I See That That Is What's It Involved With That We're Cutting Out Of That.
This Isn't The City Being. This Is This Is The City Enforcing Ordinance, Enforcing Code , Enforcing What We Expect Out Of Our Our Neighbors And Our Neighborhoods And Our Community In Terms Of Whether It'S Public Nuisance Or Trees Or Or Weeds And So On. And So I Think That's Important To That's Important To State That This Is Not This Is Not A Punitive Kind Of Thing.
One Of My Concerns Is Just Who Is Taking Advantage Of This Program And And What Who'S Being Assisted By The Program And Want To Get Some Data About That And I Don'T Necessarily Need To Cover It Now But Maybe In Future Years We Can Come Back In And Talk About That
This Is New This First Year We'Ve Done This Where We Have Either A Three Year Or Five Year Levy Depending On What The Cost Of The Tree Removal Was Council Want To Provide That Opportunity Recognizing That Cost For The Service Has Increased Substantially In Recent Years And You Know But Providing Least A Little Bit Of Financial Flexibility For People Who Are In The Situation
I Worry About This One More Than Anything Because We Eat These Costs If We Don'T Get This Paid Back And That When We Say It When I Say We Eat This Cost I Mean That People Pay Via Their Taxes Costs That Are That These Folks Incurred That For Whatever Reason They'Re Paying
Councilmember This Isn'T A Matter Of Eating Be This The City Does Not These Costs Because Of The Assessment This Is Coming Through The Property Tax Dollars So I Mean It'S They Didn'T Pay It Up Front They Were Billed Monthly Or Bi Monthly. However It Works They Didn'T Pay It Upfront But Ultimately The Costs That They'Ve Incurred In Full Is Paid Through Their Taxes Assuming They Pay Those Too
I'M Here To Ask This Is Ridiculous To Find A $350 With A Fixed Income We Can Barely We Can'T Meet Our Ends Meet Either You Know, We Have All These Kind Of Bills We Just Pay $500 For The Wire And Garbage, You Know? I Mean And We Have Other Expense And We Are Using Trailer Is Not That We Are Packing This Trailer Outside Our House To Make You Guys Enjoy You Know It Is Purpose Of It So I'M Asking You Know To Where This Fee Hundred And $50 Or Do Something Else
There Have Been Two Agreements And There There'S A Trailer As Was Mentioned That Has Come Back A Couple Of Times As Was Referenced In The Testimony There Has Been No Contact As Was Explained To Me With Environmental Health To Request More Time. And So The Hearing Officer Concluded That The Requirements Of The Violation Have Been Met And Is Recommending That The Assessmente Made.
I Haven'T Heard Anything This Evening That Would Dissuade Me From Making That Same Conclusion Because I Think That If We As A Council Want To Do That. I Think We'Ve Got To Be Able To At Least I Would Want To Be Able To Clearly State What It Is That Reason Why We Are Not Going To Follow What's Been Laid Out There And. I Think That's Important Not Only You Know For This Situation But It's A Signal To All Of Our Residents In Terms Of How We Make Our Decisions About How We Follow Our Policies.
Since This Ordinance Has Been In Place 639 Units Of Affordable Housing Have Been Produced Here In Bloomington And This Gets To 82% Of The Goal For 2030 Affordable Housing For The Community. So It'S A Really Big Accomplish And Just Four Or Five Years.
Of Note For 2024 There Was No Change To The Median Income Below 80%. And What That Means For Our Program Is There Is No Change To The Rent Maximums That Property Owners Can Set. So That Significant This Year We Were Seeing Increases In Previous Years But From 23 To 24 There Was No Change.
Ordinances & Resolutions (12)
Official declaration recognizing September as Suicide Prevention Month and Sept 8-14 as Suicide Prevention Week.
Preliminary resolution adopting the maximum property tax amount to be collected in 2025.
Preliminary resolution adopting the city's main operating budget for 2025.
Document listing properties with outstanding public nuisance abatement costs to be assessed on property taxes.
Document listing properties with outstanding tree removal costs for a three-year assessment period.
Document listing properties with outstanding tree removal costs for a five-year assessment period.
Document listing properties with outstanding weed and brush removal costs to be assessed.
Document listing properties with outstanding utility bills to be assessed on property taxes.
Document listing properties with outstanding civil fines for property violations to be assessed.
City ordinance guiding the production of affordable housing, subject of an annual implementation report.
Strategic document guiding investments in city parks over a 10-15 year period.
Federal grant sought by the Fire Department for staffing and equipment funding.