The Bloomington City Council reviewed stable residential property values and progress on the Community Health and Wellness Center during its April 14 meeting, while also directing staff to begin searching for a permanent city manager.

City Assessor Tim Bolger reported that Bloomington's median home value reached $365,400 in 2025, representing continued stability in the housing market despite reduced sales activity due to higher interest rates. The assessment showed residential values contributing $110 million of the city's $145 million total growth, while commercial properties added $30 million despite declining office values.

"Values are fairly stable throughout the city," Bolger told the council, noting that while office sector challenges exist, Bloomington hasn't experienced the severe downtown market problems seen elsewhere. He emphasized that property tax relief programs remain available through refunds and senior deferral options.

The council received updates on the Community Health and Wellness Center project, which has been reduced from 136,000 to 103,000 square feet while maintaining core programming. Design team representatives Aaron Mullens and Tim Guyette presented schematic designs for the $101.8 million facility, scheduled to open in 2027. The project includes aquatics, fitness areas, gymnasiums, and multipurpose rooms, with sustainable features like geothermal heating and solar panels.

In personnel matters, the council completed its evaluation of interim city managers Elizabeth Tollman and Kathy Hardin, noting positive experiences with their leadership in team building, organizational culture, and cost savings. The council directed staff to engage a search firm by May 1 to begin recruiting a permanent city manager while retaining the current interim structure.