The Bloomington City Council approved $91.6 million in bond sales Monday to fund the Community Health and Wellness Center while rejecting proposed franchise fee increases and voting down a controversial sidewalk plowing reduction plan.

The council unanimously approved two bond series: $63.5 million in sales tax revenue bonds and $28.1 million in general obligation bonds. Chief Financial Officer Laurie Economy Scholer reported strong market response with 15 bidders for one series, calling it "a record for the city." The bonds received favorable interest rates of 4.21% and 3.92% respectively, both lower than anticipated.

Council members voted 7-0 to maintain current franchise fee rates for both Xcel Energy and CenterPoint Energy, directing staff to return in spring 2026 with future fee analysis. The fees currently generate $8.2 million annually for road maintenance and infrastructure projects. One resident criticized the fees as representing 10-15% of typical property tax bills, calling them "a huge burden."

The council also received updates on the $37.2 million Ice Garden renovation, which remains on schedule for an October 1 opening. Deputy Parks Director Via Hughes showcased construction progress including completed ice rink floors, new ammonia cooling systems, and expanded locker facilities.

In the evening's most contentious debate, the council rejected a staff proposal to reduce residential sidewalk plowing services. The plan would have focused city crews on high-traffic areas while requiring residents to clear neighborhood sidewalks. Staff cited safety concerns for operators working 12-hour shifts and estimated $100,000 in annual savings, but council members expressed concerns about community impact and enforcement challenges.