WFHB Bloomington Community Radio
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The Bloomington City Council unanimously approved the city’s 2019 budget last week, despite concerns over several controversial elements.
Contained in the budget is an $800 thousand payment on a proposed $10 million Parks Bicentennial Bond. Council member Isabel Piedmont Smith took issue with the line item, saying the city had more pressing needs than creating more trails and greenways.
In explaining the proposed bond, Deputy Mayor Mick Renneisen said it was an investment in the city’s future quality of life.
The Herald Times reports the bond would increase property taxes by three percent per one-hundred dollars of assessed value.
The city council has yet to approve the Parks Bicentennial Bond; the bond must first be approved by the Bloomington Park Board.
Council member Steve Volan spoke in support of creating an after-hours ambassador. Given his district lies in the heart of the city, he said he was tired of being the de facto liaison.
The city’s 2019 budget includes a two percent raise for city employees. It creates or changes 14 new jobs in total, at a cost of $1.4 million to taxpayers.
