The City of Bloomington is inviting residents to provide feedback on the 2026 budget and property tax levy through public hearings and online input, according to a recent city update.

Residents can share their thoughts on city services funding at public hearings scheduled for Nov. 24 and Dec. 8 at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Civic Plaza, or provide feedback online through Dec. 8 at blm.mn/budgetfeedback. The budget funds essential city services including police, fire, public works, and parks and recreation.

In response to federal government shutdown concerns, the Bloomington City Council allocated $250,000 in Strategic Priorities funding on Oct. 27 for emergency food assistance grants to nonprofit organizations. The action addresses potential disruptions to SNAP and Minnesota Family Investment Program benefits that serve nearly 8,000 Bloomington residents. Police and fire departments are also collecting food donations at sites throughout the city.

The city is also considering changes to garbage collection rates for 2026. Proposed updates would maintain the pay-as-you-throw system while potentially increasing price differences between cart sizes, making smaller carts less expensive. A new every-other-week pickup option may be offered for households with the smallest carts. The City Council is expected to consider adoption after a Nov. 17 public hearing.

In recent election results, Bloomington voters elected Danielle Robertson to the at-large seat, Dwayne Lowman to represent District 1, and Shawn Nelson to represent District 2. Each will serve four-year terms beginning in January 2026.