The Bloomington Chronicle - Recent changes [en]

Bloomington Sources of Facts

Chronically Dave — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 23:12:46 GMT

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	== Business, Development, and Economy ==		== Business, Development, and Economy ==
			IDEM environmental https://ecm.idem.in.gov/cs/idcplg?IdcService=GET_DOC_PAGE&Action=GetTemplatePage&Page=HOME_PAGE

	=== Building permits ===		=== Building permits ===

Bloomington Convention Center (formerly Monroe Convention Center)

Chronically Dave — Sun, 02 Aug 2026 11:11:56 GMT

2026

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	=== 2026 ===		=== 2026 ===

	* '''2026-07-15 Convention center host hotel.''' The Monroe County capital improvement board (CIB) unanimously selects Dora Hospitality to develop a 200-room full-service convention center hotel on CIB-owned land south of the Bloomington convention center, directs attorney Jim Whitlatch to negotiate a definitive agreement. That means the CIB is declining requests to delay its decision until the July 20 close of the redevelopment commission’s College Square offering. That dramatically diminishes prospects for a land swap that would preserve the Seminary Pointe housing and commercial block. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-15-commentary-from-Whikehart-on-Dora-host-hotel-proposal-analysis.pdf copy of prepared remarks]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-10-Dora-Louderback-email-to-CIB-host-hotel.pdf copy of follow-up email]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-14-Thomson-email-message-to-Monroe-County-Capital-improvement-board-requesting-delayed-selection-of-hotelier-Seminary-Pointe.pdf copy of mayor’s letter]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-10-Letter-to-RDC-from-Bloomington-City-Councilmembers-land-swap-Seminary-Pointe.pdf copy of city councilmembers’ letter]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/cib-selects-dora-for-bloomington-convention-center-hotel-declines-delay-for-potential-land-swap/ BSB coverage]]		* '''2026-07-20 College Square redevelopment proposals.''' Bloomington’s redevelopment commission opens competing proposals for the downtown College Square property. One is from Concord Hospitality, TWG Development, RATIO Design and Shiel Sexton for a roughly 160-room hotel and housing with below-market-rate units. The other is from Dora Hospitality and The Louderback Group for a 135-room boutique hotel, about 100 market-rate apartments and a pedestrian promenade. A the meeting when the bids are opened the RDC does not discloses whether either offer meets the $7.59 million minimum purchase price. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-04-20-College-Square-Offering-Sheet-Bloomington-RDC-redevelopment-commission.pdf copy of public offering]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-21-Condor-RDC-public-offering-bids-Bloomington-College-Square-Proposal.pdf copy of Concord team proposal]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-20-RDC-public-offerring-Dora-Hospitality-College-Square-Proposal.pdf copy of Dora Hospitality proposal]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/two-hotel-and-apartment-proposals-submitted-for-bloomingtons-college-square/ BSB coverage]]

			* '''2026-07-15 Convention center host hotel: Dora selected.''' The Monroe County capital improvement board (CIB) unanimously selects Dora Hospitality to develop a 200-room full-service convention center hotel on CIB-owned land south of the Bloomington convention center, directs attorney Jim Whitlatch to negotiate a definitive agreement. That means the CIB is declining requests to delay its decision until the July 20 close of the redevelopment commission’s College Square offering. That dramatically diminishes prospects for a land swap that would preserve the Seminary Pointe housing and commercial block. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-15-commentary-from-Whikehart-on-Dora-host-hotel-proposal-analysis.pdf copy of prepared remarks]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-10-Dora-Louderback-email-to-CIB-host-hotel.pdf copy of follow-up email]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-14-Thomson-email-message-to-Monroe-County-Capital-improvement-board-requesting-delayed-selection-of-hotelier-Seminary-Pointe.pdf copy of mayor’s letter]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-10-Letter-to-RDC-from-Bloomington-City-Councilmembers-land-swap-Seminary-Pointe.pdf copy of city councilmembers’ letter]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/cib-selects-dora-for-bloomington-convention-center-hotel-declines-delay-for-potential-land-swap/ BSB coverage]]

	* '''2026-07-14 Mayor requests delay in host-hotel selection.''' Bloomington mayor Kerry Thomson sends an email to the Monroe County capital improvement board (CIB), asking the CIB to delay its decision on a host hotelier (and related site location) at its meeting set for July 15, 2026 until after July 20, saying a six-day pause would not burden the project schedule and would bolster public confidence in the outcome. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-14-Thomson-email-message-to-Monroe-County-Capital-improvement-board-requesting-delayed-selection-of-hotelier-Seminary-Pointe.pdf copy of Thomson email message]]		* '''2026-07-14 Mayor requests delay in host-hotel selection.''' Bloomington mayor Kerry Thomson sends an email to the Monroe County capital improvement board (CIB), asking the CIB to delay its decision on a host hotelier (and related site location) at its meeting set for July 15, 2026 until after July 20, saying a six-day pause would not burden the project schedule and would bolster public confidence in the outcome. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-14-Thomson-email-message-to-Monroe-County-Capital-improvement-board-requesting-delayed-selection-of-hotelier-Seminary-Pointe.pdf copy of Thomson email message]]

Bloomington Sources of Facts

KeltonOConnell — Fri, 31 Jul 2026 20:06:07 GMT

Monroe County Public Library board materials

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	== Schools, Libraries, and Other Local Units ==		== Schools, Libraries, and Other Local Units ==

	=== MCCSC board materials ===		=== Monroe County Community School Corporation (MCCSC) board materials ===
			'''Source:''' [https://go.boarddocs.com/in/mccsc/Board.nsf/Public MCCSC BoardDocs]

	* '''Source:''' [LINK TO MCCSC BOARD DOCS]		'''Use for:''' School board information, meeting schedule, agendas, budgets, contracts, personnel reports, policies, facilities, and collective bargaining.
	* '''Use for:''' School board agendas, budgets, contracts, personnel reports, ~~policy changes, enrollment~~, facilities, and collective bargaining.
	* '''~~Notes~~ to ~~add~~:''~~' Include where attachments and full packets are located~~.		The MCCSC school board has one regular meeting each month, typically on the fourth Tuesday at 6 p.m. Meetings are typically at the MCCSC Co-Lab, 553 E Miller Dr, Bloomington, IN 47401, and live-streamed and archived on the district's [https://www.youtube.com/@monroecountycommunityschools/streams YouTube channel].

			Past meeting agendas are in the "Meetings" tab. MCCSC generally publishes agendas for its regular fourth-Tuesday-of-the-month meetings the Friday before. Agendas include documents that the board reviews, typically with files attached to individual agenda items. Often, some documents aren't made available to the public on Friday: personnel reports are usually published closer to the meeting than Friday, and PDF versions of district update presentations are usually published during or directly following the meeting.

			District policies, bylaws, and guidelines are in the "Policies" tab and can be searched via keyword.

			Moving between sections and pages in BoardDocs doesn't change the URL in the browser, so merely copying the browser URL to share a specific page won't work. Instead, use the share icon in the top right corner of the screen, then click the link icon to copy a direct link to that item.

			A general email address for all board members is [mailto:comments@mccsc.edu comments@mccsc.edu]. The bylaw regarding public comment at regular meetings is [https://go.boarddocs.com/in/mccsc/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=C7YQXB67C512 Bylaw 0167.3]. Guidelines for public comments can be found in this [https://mccsc.jotform.com/232113742831852 online form].

	=== R-BB school board materials ===		=== R-BB school board materials ===
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	* '''Notes to add:''' Include where agendas, minutes, and recordings are stored.		* '''Notes to add:''' Include where agendas, minutes, and recordings are stored.

	=== Monroe County Public Library ===		=== Monroe County Public Library board materials ===
			'''Source:''' [https://mcpl.info/library-trustees/board-trustees MCPL Board of Trustees Webpage]; [https://mcpl.info/library-trustees/meetings MCPL Upcoming Board Meetings]; [https://mcpl.info/library-trustees/minutes-archive MCPL Past Board Meetings]

			'''Use for:''' Library budgets, branches, capital projects, programs, statistics, and board decisions.

			The MCPL board generally meets on the third Wednesday of each month at 5:45 p.m. Meetings are typically in Meeting Room 1B/C, which is on the first floor of the Downtown Library, 303 E Kirkwood Avenue, Bloomington, IN 47408. Meetings are broadcasted and recorded by [https://catstv.net/government.php Community Access Television Services (CATS)].

	* '''Source:''' [~~LINK TO MCPL BOARD MATERIALS]~~		Board members can be reached using a [https://mcpl.info/boardemail contact form].
	* '''Use for:~~''' Library budgets, branches, capital projects, programs, statistics, and board decisions~~.
	* '''Notes to add:''' Include monthly statistics and annual reports.

	=== Township government ===		=== Township government ===

Monroe County Jail

Chronically Dave — Wed, 29 Jul 2026 17:23:03 GMT

2026

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	=== 2026 ===		=== 2026 ===

	* '''2026-07-22 Hopewell jail proposal.''' Monroe County commissioners Jody Madeira and Julie Thomas ask the Bloomington ~~City Council~~ to quickly support referring to the redevelopment commission a DLZ concept for a combined jail and justice center on Hopewell land north of 1st Street and west of Rogers Street. The request is conditioned on avoiding the ordinary review process that commissioners say would add at least nine months to the timeline. The council takes no action because the request is not on its agenda. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-22-handout-Monroe-County-Hopewell-commissioners-jail-site-Bloomington-city-council-meeting.pdf copy of handout]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-05-27-email-from-Kerry-Thomson-mayor-county-council-Monroe-County.pdf copy of mayor’s email]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-04-22-city-council-resolution-2026-07-in-support-of-county-council-effort-to-keep-jail-in-city-limits-north-park-Thomson.pdf copy of city council resolution]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/monroe-county-commissioners-re-float-hopewell-as-possible-new-jail-site-seek-citys-quick-support/ BSB coverage]]		* '''2026-07-28 Justice center sewage backup and bond scrutiny.''' The Monroe County Council takes no final action on a draft $5.56 million general-obligation bond project list, instead planning to rank proposals—including about $2 million for a justice center elevator and $500,000 for jail cameras. Officials consider further spending on the “dying” Charlotte T. Zietlow Justice Center after a bag of e-cigarettes flushed down a jail toilet causes a sewage backup and building closure. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-28-Council-Agenda-Packet-GO-Bond-Projects-OCR.pdf draft GO bond project list]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/sewage-backup-in-monroe-county-justice-center-spurs-scrutiny-of-future-spending-on-dying-building/ BSB coverage]]

			* '''2026-07-27 Piedmont-Smith opposes Hopewell as jail site.''' In a written statement, Bloomington city councilmember Isabel Piedmont-Smith tells Monroe County commissioners Julie Thomas and Jody Madeira that she cannot support their request to use the Hopewell site for a new jail and affiliated offices without full rezoning review. Piedmont-Smith cites the location's long-planned housing use, the Collaborative Justice Project Working Subcommittee’s 3–2 recommendation to renovate and expand the current jail site, and the council’s commitment to expedite rather than bypass city processes. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-27-Bloomington-city-council-Piedmont-Smith-Response-to-Commissioners-re-Jail-Site-at-Hopewell.pdf copy of Piedmont-Smith's statement]]

			* '''2026-07-24 Monroe County justice building closure.''' Monroe County announces that the justice building will close July 27 after an inmate-caused sewer-line blockage sends wastewater through office ceilings, prompting removal of damaged carpet and drywall and cleaning, sanitizing and drying of the building. [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/monroe-county-justice-building-closed-monday-july-27-due-to-plumbing-issue/ BSB coverage]]

			* '''2026-07-22 Hopewell jail proposal.''' Monroe County commissioners Jody Madeira and Julie Thomas ask the Bloomington city council to quickly support referring to the redevelopment commission a DLZ concept for a combined jail and justice center on Hopewell land north of 1st Street and west of Rogers Street. The request is conditioned on avoiding the ordinary review process that commissioners say would add at least nine months to the timeline. The council takes no action because the request is not on its agenda. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-22-handout-Monroe-County-Hopewell-commissioners-jail-site-Bloomington-city-council-meeting.pdf copy of handout]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-05-27-email-from-Kerry-Thomson-mayor-county-council-Monroe-County.pdf copy of mayor’s email]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-04-22-city-council-resolution-2026-07-in-support-of-county-council-effort-to-keep-jail-in-city-limits-north-park-Thomson.pdf copy of city council resolution]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/monroe-county-commissioners-re-float-hopewell-as-possible-new-jail-site-seek-citys-quick-support/ BSB coverage]]

	* '''2026-07-16 Jail-overcrowding emergency, outside counsel.''' Monroe County commissioners ratify an emergency resolution after removing Sheriff Ruben Marté’s specific 186-inmate functional-capacity benchmark, instead acknowledging generally that the jail exceeds its functional capacity. Commissioners also approve joint outside counsel for the commissioners and sheriff at discounted hourly rates of $225 for senior attorneys and $195 for associates. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-09-Increased-Trends-in-Jaily-Population-sheriff-jail-condition-report-Ruben-Marte-emergency.pdf copy of sheriff’s report]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-16-Clark-Johnson-Knight-representation-letter-jail-commissioners-sheriff.pdf copy of engagement letter]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/jail-capacity-figure-struck-from-resolution-by-monroe-county-commissioners/ BSB coverage]]		* '''2026-07-16 Jail-overcrowding emergency, outside counsel.''' Monroe County commissioners ratify an emergency resolution after removing Sheriff Ruben Marté’s specific 186-inmate functional-capacity benchmark, instead acknowledging generally that the jail exceeds its functional capacity. Commissioners also approve joint outside counsel for the commissioners and sheriff at discounted hourly rates of $225 for senior attorneys and $195 for associates. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-09-Increased-Trends-in-Jaily-Population-sheriff-jail-condition-report-Ruben-Marte-emergency.pdf copy of sheriff’s report]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-16-Clark-Johnson-Knight-representation-letter-jail-commissioners-sheriff.pdf copy of engagement letter]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/jail-capacity-figure-struck-from-resolution-by-monroe-county-commissioners/ BSB coverage]]

Bloomington Annexation

Chronically Dave — Sat, 25 Jul 2026 11:13:55 GMT

Latest

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	* '''2026-06-05 Trial on the merits: Annexation legal fees.''' Monroe Circuit Court special judge Nathan Nikirk hears 45 minutes of arguments on the remaining legal-fee question after Bloomington’s failed Areas 1A and 1B annexations, with outside counsel for the city, attorneys Stephen Unger and Andrew McNeil, arguing for a $37,500 statutory cap and remonstrators’ attorney William Beggs seeking $199,441.98 before Nikirk takes the matter under advisement and sets a July 8 deadline for proposed orders. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-06-05-annexation-Bloomington-attorney-fees-Amended-Petition-for-Attorney-Fees.pdf copy of amended fee request]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-06-05-Joint-Sitpulations-annexation-Bloomington-attorney-fees.pdf copy of joint stipulations]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/bloomington-argues-37-500-cap-on-legal-fees-in-annexation-loss-remonstrators-seek-200k/ ~~source article~~]]
			* '''2026-07-24 Trial on the merits: Annexation legal fees.''' Monroe County special judge Nathan Nikirk enters final judgment ordering Bloomington to pay $37,500 directly to Bunger & Robertson for representing residents who defeated the proposed annexation of Areas 1A and 1B. Nikirk rejects the remonstrators’ $199,441.98 request after finding that Indiana law imposes an unambiguous statutory cap. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-24-53C06-2203-PL-000509-Order-on-Annexation-fees.pdf copy of court ruling]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/judge-caps-bloomingtons-annexation-legal-fee-payment-at-37-500/ BSB coverage]]

			* '''2026-06-05 Trial on the merits: Annexation legal fees.''' Monroe Circuit Court special judge Nathan Nikirk hears 45 minutes of arguments on the remaining legal-fee question after Bloomington’s failed Areas 1A and 1B annexations, with outside counsel for the city, attorneys Stephen Unger and Andrew McNeil, arguing for a $37,500 statutory cap and remonstrators’ attorney William Beggs seeking $199,441.98 before Nikirk takes the matter under advisement and sets a July 8 deadline for proposed orders. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-06-05-annexation-Bloomington-attorney-fees-Amended-Petition-for-Attorney-Fees.pdf copy of amended fee request]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-06-05-Joint-Sitpulations-annexation-Bloomington-attorney-fees.pdf copy of joint stipulations]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/bloomington-argues-37-500-cap-on-legal-fees-in-annexation-loss-remonstrators-seek-200k/ BSB coverage]]
	* '''2026-02-10 Trial on the merits.''' Indiana Supreme Court declines to accept transfer of Bloomington’s appeal, leaving in place the Court of Appeals decision blocking annexation of Areas 1A and 1B. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-02-10-Order-denying-transfer-Area-1A-Area-1B-Transfer.pdf copy of order]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/supreme-court-refuses-to-hear-case-bloomingtons-annexation-defeat-in-two-areas-now-final/ BSB coverage]]		* '''2026-02-10 Trial on the merits.''' Indiana Supreme Court declines to accept transfer of Bloomington’s appeal, leaving in place the Court of Appeals decision blocking annexation of Areas 1A and 1B. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-02-10-Order-denying-transfer-Area-1A-Area-1B-Transfer.pdf copy of order]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/supreme-court-refuses-to-hear-case-bloomingtons-annexation-defeat-in-two-areas-now-final/ BSB coverage]]

Hopewell Neighborhood (IU Health hospital redevelopment project)

Chronically Dave — Thu, 23 Jul 2026 13:28:30 GMT

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	18-13 Project Review and Approval Form		18-13 Project Review and Approval Form
			[[Category:Topical History]]

Monroe County Jail

Chronically Dave — Thu, 23 Jul 2026 13:10:01 GMT

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	=== 2026 ===		=== 2026 ===

			* '''2026-07-22 Hopewell jail proposal.''' Monroe County commissioners Jody Madeira and Julie Thomas ask the Bloomington City Council to quickly support referring to the redevelopment commission a DLZ concept for a combined jail and justice center on Hopewell land north of 1st Street and west of Rogers Street. The request is conditioned on avoiding the ordinary review process that commissioners say would add at least nine months to the timeline. The council takes no action because the request is not on its agenda. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-22-handout-Monroe-County-Hopewell-commissioners-jail-site-Bloomington-city-council-meeting.pdf copy of handout]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-05-27-email-from-Kerry-Thomson-mayor-county-council-Monroe-County.pdf copy of mayor’s email]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-04-22-city-council-resolution-2026-07-in-support-of-county-council-effort-to-keep-jail-in-city-limits-north-park-Thomson.pdf copy of city council resolution]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/monroe-county-commissioners-re-float-hopewell-as-possible-new-jail-site-seek-citys-quick-support/ BSB coverage]]

	* '''2026-07-16 Jail-overcrowding emergency, outside counsel.''' Monroe County commissioners ratify an emergency resolution after removing Sheriff Ruben Marté’s specific 186-inmate functional-capacity benchmark, instead acknowledging generally that the jail exceeds its functional capacity. Commissioners also approve joint outside counsel for the commissioners and sheriff at discounted hourly rates of $225 for senior attorneys and $195 for associates. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-09-Increased-Trends-in-Jaily-Population-sheriff-jail-condition-report-Ruben-Marte-emergency.pdf copy of sheriff’s report]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-16-Clark-Johnson-Knight-representation-letter-jail-commissioners-sheriff.pdf copy of engagement letter]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/jail-capacity-figure-struck-from-resolution-by-monroe-county-commissioners/ BSB coverage]]		* '''2026-07-16 Jail-overcrowding emergency, outside counsel.''' Monroe County commissioners ratify an emergency resolution after removing Sheriff Ruben Marté’s specific 186-inmate functional-capacity benchmark, instead acknowledging generally that the jail exceeds its functional capacity. Commissioners also approve joint outside counsel for the commissioners and sheriff at discounted hourly rates of $225 for senior attorneys and $195 for associates. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-09-Increased-Trends-in-Jaily-Population-sheriff-jail-condition-report-Ruben-Marte-emergency.pdf copy of sheriff’s report]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-16-Clark-Johnson-Knight-representation-letter-jail-commissioners-sheriff.pdf copy of engagement letter]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/jail-capacity-figure-struck-from-resolution-by-monroe-county-commissioners/ BSB coverage]]
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	* '''2026-06-08 Litigation.''' Federal judge orders ''Richardson v. Monroe County Sheriff'' dismissed. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-06-08-Richardson-v-Monroe-County-Sheriff-Final-Order-Dismissing-Action-073111833190.pdf copy of court's order]]		* '''2026-06-08 Litigation.''' Federal judge orders ''Richardson v. Monroe County Sheriff'' dismissed. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-06-08-Richardson-v-Monroe-County-Sheriff-Final-Order-Dismissing-Action-073111833190.pdf copy of court's order]]
	* '''2026-05-27 Litigation.''' ACLU of Indiana attorney Ken Falk and Monroe County attorney David Schilling file a stipulated dismissal in ''Richardson v. Monroe County Sheriff'' after the county council’s May 26 North Park vote, ending the old action “with prejudice as to this action only” while leaving room for new jail-conditions litigation. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-05-27-Falk-jail-settlement-dismissal-North-Park-Monroe-County-073111795515.pdf copy of court filing]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/aclu-makes-swift-move-to-dismiss-monroe-county-jail-lawsuit-would-open-door-to-fresh-action-on-current-conditions/ BSB coverage]]		* '''2026-05-27 Litigation.''' ACLU of Indiana attorney Ken Falk and Monroe County attorney David Schilling file a stipulated dismissal in ''Richardson v. Monroe County Sheriff'' after the county council’s May 26 North Park vote, ending the old action “with prejudice as to this action only” while leaving room for new jail-conditions litigation. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-05-27-Falk-jail-settlement-dismissal-North-Park-Monroe-County-073111795515.pdf copy of court filing]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/aclu-makes-swift-move-to-dismiss-monroe-county-jail-lawsuit-would-open-door-to-fresh-action-on-current-conditions/ BSB coverage]]

			* '''2026-05-27 Thomson urges jail-site collaboration.''' Bloomington Mayor Kerry Thomson sends an email message to Monroe County councilors who voted against North Park that they were "brave." She says that North Park is not a fiscally responsible jail site, commits the city to expediting zoning administration for any site within Bloomington, and pledges to reconvene decision-makers to pursue a collaborative alternative. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-05-27-email-from-Kerry-Thomson-mayor-county-council-Monroe-County.pdf copy of email message]]

	* '''2026-05-26 Potential new location: North Park.''' The Monroe County council rejects the $11.375-million North Park purchase agreement for a new jail, first with a 1–6 failed approval vote and then with a 6–0 vote to deny after David Henry leaves the remote connection, leaving the county with no selected jail site ahead of the May 29 ACLU settlement deadline. Peter Iversen is the only county councilor to support the purchase agreement. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-05-26-joint-statement-jail-county-commissioners-iversen-asare-thomson-Responsible-Path-Forward.pdf copy of joint statement]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/north-park-dead-as-jail-site-after-monroe-county-council-repeats-clear-rejection-search-for-alternate-location-now-urgent/ BSB coverage]]		* '''2026-05-26 Potential new location: North Park.''' The Monroe County council rejects the $11.375-million North Park purchase agreement for a new jail, first with a 1–6 failed approval vote and then with a 6–0 vote to deny after David Henry leaves the remote connection, leaving the county with no selected jail site ahead of the May 29 ACLU settlement deadline. Peter Iversen is the only county councilor to support the purchase agreement. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-05-26-joint-statement-jail-county-commissioners-iversen-asare-thomson-Responsible-Path-Forward.pdf copy of joint statement]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/north-park-dead-as-jail-site-after-monroe-county-council-repeats-clear-rejection-search-for-alternate-location-now-urgent/ BSB coverage]]
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	* '''2026-04-28 Litigation.''' The county council votes 6–1, with Trent Deckard dissenting, to appropriate $30,000 for outside legal counsel while taking no action on a reviewed $135-million jail bond plan. [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/monroe-county-council-backs-30k-for-lawyers-questions-new-135m-jail-financing-plan/ BSB coverage]]		* '''2026-04-28 Litigation.''' The county council votes 6–1, with Trent Deckard dissenting, to appropriate $30,000 for outside legal counsel while taking no action on a reviewed $135-million jail bond plan. [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/monroe-county-council-backs-30k-for-lawyers-questions-new-135m-jail-financing-plan/ BSB coverage]]

			*'''2026-04-22 Jail location resolution.''' Bloomington Common Council Resolution 2026-07, co-sponsored by councilmembers Sydney Zulich, Courtney Daily and Isabel Piedmont-Smith, supports the Monroe County council’s refusal to fund the $11.375 million North Park property purchase and commits the city council to helping expedite zoning and permitting for a new jail within city limits near social services. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-04-22-city-council-resolution-2026-07-in-support-of-county-council-effort-to-keep-jail-in-city-limits-north-park-Thomson.pdf copy of resolution]]

	* '''2026-04-15 Litigation.''' After the court approved a settlement extension to May 29, residents urge councilors to reject North Park and commissioners issue a news release saying the extension conditions were imposed by the ACLU and not by commissioners. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-04-15-news-release-settlement-jail-Monroe-County-Jail-ACLU.pdf copy of news release]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-04-13-modified-settlement-agreement-Monroe-County-jail-North-Park-073111704804.pdf copy of court filing]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/pushback-from-public-county-council-on-north-park-jail-site-after-filing-for-settlement-extension/ BSB coverage]]		* '''2026-04-15 Litigation.''' After the court approved a settlement extension to May 29, residents urge councilors to reject North Park and commissioners issue a news release saying the extension conditions were imposed by the ACLU and not by commissioners. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-04-15-news-release-settlement-jail-Monroe-County-Jail-ACLU.pdf copy of news release]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-04-13-modified-settlement-agreement-Monroe-County-jail-North-Park-073111704804.pdf copy of court filing]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/pushback-from-public-county-council-on-north-park-jail-site-after-filing-for-settlement-extension/ BSB coverage]]

Kirkwood Avenue Closures

Chronically Dave — Thu, 23 Jul 2026 04:40:56 GMT

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	=== 2026 ===		=== 2026 ===
	* '''2026-06-22 Kirkwood closure veto.''' Bloomington mayor Kerry Thomson vetoes Ordinance 2026-12, passed 5–4 by the city council to close Kirkwood Avenue from Indiana Avenue to Walnut Street to cars from April to November, citing lack of public engagement, no fiscal-impact analysis and no funding plan; an override requires six votes at the council’s next regular or special meeting. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-06-22-Kirkwood-Veto-A-Letter-From-Mayor-Kerry-Thomson_Kirkwood-Ordinance-2026-12.pdf copy of letter]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-06-22-Bloomington-Kirkwood-mayor-Thomson-news-release-veto.pdf copy of news release]] [[https://bloomington.in.gov/onboard/meetingFiles/16960/download#page=204 copy of ordinance]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/bloomington-mayor-vetoes-carless-kirkwood-council-could-try-override-on-july-22/ BSB coverage]]

	*'''2026-06-10 Kirkwood Avenue seasonal closure.''' Bloomington City Council votes 5–4 to require the first five blocks of Kirkwood Avenue, from Indiana Avenue to Walnut Street, to close to vehicular traffic from April 1 to Nov. 15 each year starting in 2027, despite administration opposition. Mayor Kerry Thomson could either sign or veto the ordinance. [[https://bloomington.in.gov/onboard/meetingFiles/16960/download#page=205 copy of ordinance]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-06-03-carless-Kirkwood-administration-memo-Knapp-Kupersmith-Rice-Cibor.pdf copy of memo]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/bloomington-council-votes-5-4-to-codify-permanent-seasonal-kirkwood-closure/ BSB coverage]]		* '''2026-07-22 Kirkwood veto override fails.''' Bloomington’s city council votes 4–4 to override Mayor Kerry Thomson’s veto of Ordinance 2026-12. That falls two votes short of the six required and leaving defeated the proposed annual April 1–Nov. 15 motor-vehicle closure of five Kirkwood Avenue blocks. Isak Asare, Courtney Daily, Matt Flaherty and Kate Rosenbarger support the override. Isabel Piedmont-Smith, Dave Rollo, Andy Ruff and Hopi Stosberg oppose it. Sydney Zulich is absent. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-05-20-ORD-2026-12-city-council-Kirkwood-Closure.pdf copy of ordinance]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-06-22-Kirkwood-Veto-A-Letter-From-Mayor-Kerry-Thomson_Kirkwood-Ordinance-2026-12.pdf copy of veto letter]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/bloomington-council-falls-short-of-overriding-thomson-veto-of-seasonal-kirkwood-closure/ BSB coverage]]

			* '''2026-06-22 Kirkwood seasonal closure ordinance: Veto.''' Bloomington mayor Kerry Thomson vetoes Ordinance 2026-12, passed 5–4 by the city council to close Kirkwood Avenue from Indiana Avenue to Walnut Street to cars from April to November, citing lack of public engagement, no fiscal-impact analysis and no funding plan; an override requires six votes at the council’s next regular or special meeting. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-06-22-Kirkwood-Veto-A-Letter-From-Mayor-Kerry-Thomson_Kirkwood-Ordinance-2026-12.pdf copy of letter]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-06-22-Bloomington-Kirkwood-mayor-Thomson-news-release-veto.pdf copy of news release]] [[https://bloomington.in.gov/onboard/meetingFiles/16960/download#page=204 copy of ordinance]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/bloomington-mayor-vetoes-carless-kirkwood-council-could-try-override-on-july-22/ BSB coverage]]

			* '''2026-06-16 Kirkwood Avenue seasonal closure ordinance: Listening session.''' Bloomington Mayor Kerry Thomson holds a 90-minute public forum on the city council’s ordinance requiring Kirkwood Avenue from Indiana Avenue to Walnut Street to close to motor vehicles for seven months annually beginning in April 2027. She heard divided views on accessibility, costs, infrastructure and downtown vitality before her June 26 deadline to sign or veto the measure. [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/bloomington-mayor-hears-split-views-on-kirkwood-as-veto-deadline-looms/ BSB coverage]]

			*'''2026-06-10 Kirkwood Avenue seasonal closure ordinance: Passed.''' Bloomington City Council votes 5–4 to require the first five blocks of Kirkwood Avenue, from Indiana Avenue to Walnut Street, to close to vehicular traffic from April 1 to Nov. 15 each year starting in 2027, despite administration opposition. Mayor Kerry Thomson could either sign or veto the ordinance. [[https://bloomington.in.gov/onboard/meetingFiles/16960/download#page=205 copy of ordinance]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-06-03-carless-Kirkwood-administration-memo-Knapp-Kupersmith-Rice-Cibor.pdf copy of memo]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/bloomington-council-votes-5-4-to-codify-permanent-seasonal-kirkwood-closure/ BSB coverage]]

	* '''2026-06-09 Car-free Kirkwood transportation commission recommendation.''' Bloomington’s transportation commission votes 5–1, with John Connell dissenting, to reject staff findings and forward a positive recommendation on Kate Rosenbarger and Courtney Daily’s ordinance to close Kirkwood Avenue from Indiana Avenue to Walnut Street to car traffic from April through mid-November each year. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2019-07-08-City-of-Bloomington-2019-Transportation-Plan.pdf#page=68 copy of transportation plan]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-06-09-download-Bloomington-comprensive-plan-Accessiblity_update_-_Adopted_Final_2018__Updated_Res_13_11.pdf#page=74 copy of comprehensive plan]] [[https://library.municode.com/in/bloomington/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT2ADPE_CH2.02BOCO_2.02.100TRCO municipal code]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/bloomington-transportation-commission-backs-car-free-kirkwood-ordinance-despite-staff-findings/ BSB coverage]]		* '''2026-06-09 Car-free Kirkwood transportation commission recommendation.''' Bloomington’s transportation commission votes 5–1, with John Connell dissenting, to reject staff findings and forward a positive recommendation on Kate Rosenbarger and Courtney Daily’s ordinance to close Kirkwood Avenue from Indiana Avenue to Walnut Street to car traffic from April through mid-November each year. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2019-07-08-City-of-Bloomington-2019-Transportation-Plan.pdf#page=68 copy of transportation plan]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-06-09-download-Bloomington-comprensive-plan-Accessiblity_update_-_Adopted_Final_2018__Updated_Res_13_11.pdf#page=74 copy of comprehensive plan]] [[https://library.municode.com/in/bloomington/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT2ADPE_CH2.02BOCO_2.02.100TRCO municipal code]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/bloomington-transportation-commission-backs-car-free-kirkwood-ordinance-despite-staff-findings/ BSB coverage]]
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	* '''2025-04-01''' '''Street closure begins.''' Bollards are installed on Kirkwood Avenue for the 2025 outdoor dining program. The seasonal closure officially runs from April 4 through Nov. 10, closing sections from Indiana Avenue at Sample Gates to Walnut Street near the courthouse square. The 100 block has a western half-block closure; the 200 block remains open; the 300–500 blocks are fully closed to vehicles. [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/east-kirkwood-avenue/ BSB coverage]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/kirkwood-ave-indiana-ave/ BSB photo]]		* '''2025-04-01''' '''Street closure begins.''' Bollards are installed on Kirkwood Avenue for the 2025 outdoor dining program. The seasonal closure officially runs from April 4 through Nov. 10, closing sections from Indiana Avenue at Sample Gates to Walnut Street near the courthouse square. The 100 block has a western half-block closure; the 200 block remains open; the 300–500 blocks are fully closed to vehicles. [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/east-kirkwood-avenue/ BSB coverage]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/kirkwood-ave-indiana-ave/ BSB photo]]
	* '''2025-03-28''' Bloomington finalizes the 2025 geometry: west half of 100 block closed, 200 block open, and 300–500 blocks fully closed. [[https://bloomington.in.gov/news/2025/03/28/6204 Official city press release]]		* '''2025-03-28''' Bloomington finalizes the 2025 geometry: west half of 100 block closed, 200 block open, and 300–500 blocks fully closed. [[https://bloomington.in.gov/news/2025/03/28/6204 Official city press release]]
	* '''2025-01-22''' '''City council action.''' Bloomington city council unanimously approves Ordinance 2025-02, establishing the Outdoor Dining Program in the Downtown Corridor as an ongoing program. The ordinance closes Kirkwood Avenue to motor vehicle traffic annually from the 100 East through 500 East blocks, with the ESD department determining exact seasonal dates. The ordinance states the program "shall operate unless earlier terminated under Section 7" and authorizes the city engineer to permanently or temporarily suspend the program in cases of emergency, lack of participation, or impracticality. The ordinance is intended to give businesses multi-year certainty and a path toward a more pedestrian-oriented Kirkwood. Councilmembers Kate Rosenbarger and Isak Asare amend the original proposal to bring back the full street closure and to remove language that would have limited the program through 2028. [[https://~~bsquarebulletin~~.~~com~~/~~bloomington~~-~~may~~-~~walk~~-~~back~~-~~plan~~-to-~~keep~~-~~kirkwood~~-~~open-to-vehicle-traffic-after-city-council-backlash/ BSB coverage]] [[https://bloomington.in~~.~~gov/business/outdoor-dining~~ copy of ~~ordinance~~]]		* '''2025-01-22''' '''City council action.''' Bloomington city council unanimously approves Ordinance 2025-02, establishing the Outdoor Dining Program in the Downtown Corridor as an ongoing program. The ordinance closes Kirkwood Avenue to motor vehicle traffic annually from the 100 East through 500 East blocks, with the ESD department determining exact seasonal dates. The ordinance states the program "shall operate unless earlier terminated under Section 7" and authorizes the city engineer to permanently or temporarily suspend the program in cases of emergency, lack of participation, or impracticality. The ordinance is intended to give businesses multi-year certainty and a path toward a more pedestrian-oriented Kirkwood. Councilmembers Kate Rosenbarger and Isak Asare amend the original proposal to bring back the full street closure and to remove language that would have limited the program through 2028. [BSB coverage] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/Ord_2025-02-Kirkwood-Outdoor-Dining-Prgram.pdf copy of Ordinance 2025-02]]
	* '''2025-01-22''' Bloomington city council adopts amended Ordinance 2025-02, creating an annual standing Outdoor Dining Program and restoring the Kirkwood conversion element alongside parklets. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/Ord_2025-02-Kirkwood-Outdoor-Dining-Prgram.pdf copy of Ordinance 2025-02]]		* '''2025-01-22''' Bloomington city council adopts amended Ordinance 2025-02, creating an annual standing Outdoor Dining Program and restoring the Kirkwood conversion element alongside parklets. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/Ord_2025-02-Kirkwood-Outdoor-Dining-Prgram.pdf copy of Ordinance 2025-02]]
	=== 2024 ===		=== 2024 ===

Monroe County Jail

Chronically Dave — Thu, 16 Jul 2026 19:51:59 GMT

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	Monroe County's jail is located on the northwest corner of the intersection of 7th Street and College Avenue in downtown Bloomington. ~~As of June 9~~, 2026, a new jail ~~is planned to be built, but new litigation is expected~~ after a ~~judge on June 8, 2026 finally dismissed~~ a lawsuit ~~filed in 2008~~.		Monroe County's jail is located on the northwest corner of the intersection of 7th Street and College Avenue in downtown Bloomington. On July 10, 2026, new litigation over jail conditions was filed by the ACLU. That's after a settlement agreement from a 2008 lawsuit over jail conditions expired.

	~~'''Timeline: Monroe County Jail'''~~		=== 2026 ===

	~~===~~ 2026 ~~===~~		* '''2026-07-16 Jail-overcrowding emergency, outside counsel.''' Monroe County commissioners ratify an emergency resolution after removing Sheriff Ruben Marté’s specific 186-inmate functional-capacity benchmark, instead acknowledging generally that the jail exceeds its functional capacity. Commissioners also approve joint outside counsel for the commissioners and sheriff at discounted hourly rates of $225 for senior attorneys and $195 for associates. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-09-Increased-Trends-in-Jaily-Population-sheriff-jail-condition-report-Ruben-Marte-emergency.pdf copy of sheriff’s report]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-16-Clark-Johnson-Knight-representation-letter-jail-commissioners-sheriff.pdf copy of engagement letter]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/jail-capacity-figure-struck-from-resolution-by-monroe-county-commissioners/ BSB coverage]]

			* '''2026-07-13 Jail site recommendation.''' The Collaborative Justice Project Working Subcommittee votes 3–2 to recommend renovating the Monroe County jail and justice center at 7th Street and College Avenue and expanding into the county-owned Curry and Fiscus buildings as its top choice. The subcommittee unanimously names the Thomson property on South Rogers Street as its second choice, and forwards the recommendations for consideration by city and county elected officials. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-09-CJPWS-Collaborative-Justice-Project-Working-Subcommittee-20260709-Monroe-County-Jail-Site-Evaluation.pdf copy of site evaluation]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/renovation-plus-curry-plan-edges-out-thomson-site-for-jail-panels-recommendation/ BSB coverage]]

	* '''2026-07-10 New lawsuit: Alleged unconstitutional conditions at jail.''' The ACLU, on behalf of detainees Tayler Grubb and Joseph Marrero, files a proposed federal class action against the Monroe County council, Monroe County commissioners and sheriff Ruben Marté, alleging that overcrowding and deteriorating conditions violate constitutional rights of prisoners. The filing asks for class certification and a permanent injunction requiring constitutional conditions. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-10-Complaint-1-26-cv-01460-Grubb-Marrero-council-commissioners-sheriff-jail-lawsuit.pdf copy of complaint] ] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-10-1-26-cv-01460-paintiff-brief-in-support-certify-class-Monroe-County-jail-073111901327.pdf copy of brief in support of class certification]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/new-federal-lawsuit-alleges-unconstitutional-conditions-at-monroe-county-jail/ BSB coverage]]		* '''2026-07-10 New lawsuit: Alleged unconstitutional conditions at jail.''' The ACLU, on behalf of detainees Tayler Grubb and Joseph Marrero, files a proposed federal class action against the Monroe County council, Monroe County commissioners and sheriff Ruben Marté, alleging that overcrowding and deteriorating conditions violate constitutional rights of prisoners. The filing asks for class certification and a permanent injunction requiring constitutional conditions. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-10-Complaint-1-26-cv-01460-Grubb-Marrero-council-commissioners-sheriff-jail-lawsuit.pdf copy of complaint] ] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-10-1-26-cv-01460-paintiff-brief-in-support-certify-class-Monroe-County-jail-073111901327.pdf copy of brief in support of class certification]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/new-federal-lawsuit-alleges-unconstitutional-conditions-at-monroe-county-jail/ BSB coverage]]

Bloomington Convention Center (formerly Monroe Convention Center)

Chronically Dave — Wed, 15 Jul 2026 21:36:19 GMT

2026

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	=== '''Timeline: Bloomington Convention Center''' ===		=== '''Timeline: Bloomington Convention Center''' ===
	=== 2026 ===		=== 2026 ===

			* '''2026-07-15 Convention center host hotel.''' The Monroe County capital improvement board (CIB) unanimously selects Dora Hospitality to develop a 200-room full-service convention center hotel on CIB-owned land south of the Bloomington convention center, directs attorney Jim Whitlatch to negotiate a definitive agreement. That means the CIB is declining requests to delay its decision until the July 20 close of the redevelopment commission’s College Square offering. That dramatically diminishes prospects for a land swap that would preserve the Seminary Pointe housing and commercial block. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-15-commentary-from-Whikehart-on-Dora-host-hotel-proposal-analysis.pdf copy of prepared remarks]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-10-Dora-Louderback-email-to-CIB-host-hotel.pdf copy of follow-up email]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-14-Thomson-email-message-to-Monroe-County-Capital-improvement-board-requesting-delayed-selection-of-hotelier-Seminary-Pointe.pdf copy of mayor’s letter]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-10-Letter-to-RDC-from-Bloomington-City-Councilmembers-land-swap-Seminary-Pointe.pdf copy of city councilmembers’ letter]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/cib-selects-dora-for-bloomington-convention-center-hotel-declines-delay-for-potential-land-swap/ BSB coverage]]

			* '''2026-07-14 Mayor requests delay in host-hotel selection.''' Bloomington mayor Kerry Thomson sends an email to the Monroe County capital improvement board (CIB), asking the CIB to delay its decision on a host hotelier (and related site location) at its meeting set for July 15, 2026 until after July 20, saying a six-day pause would not burden the project schedule and would bolster public confidence in the outcome. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-14-Thomson-email-message-to-Monroe-County-Capital-improvement-board-requesting-delayed-selection-of-hotelier-Seminary-Pointe.pdf copy of Thomson email message]]

	* '''2026-07-10 Seminary Pointe land swap: Bloomington city council reacts to appraisal amount''' Bloomington city council president Isak Asare and councilmembers Isabel Piedmont-Smith, Dave Rollo, Andy Ruff and Hopi Stosberg urge the Bloomington redevelopment commission to approve exchanging the College Square property for Seminary Pointe after a First Appraisal Group valuation peegs Seminary Pointe’s four parcels at $7 million. That's roughly equal to College Square they say, and advocate for a land swapl, which they say will preserve 29 deeply affordable apartments near downtown services and transit. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-10-Letter-to-RDC-from-Bloomington-City-Councilmembers-land-swap-Seminary-Pointe.pdf .pdf file of letter]]		* '''2026-07-10 Seminary Pointe land swap: Bloomington city council reacts to appraisal amount''' Bloomington city council president Isak Asare and councilmembers Isabel Piedmont-Smith, Dave Rollo, Andy Ruff and Hopi Stosberg urge the Bloomington redevelopment commission to approve exchanging the College Square property for Seminary Pointe after a First Appraisal Group valuation peegs Seminary Pointe’s four parcels at $7 million. That's roughly equal to College Square they say, and advocate for a land swapl, which they say will preserve 29 deeply affordable apartments near downtown services and transit. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-10-Letter-to-RDC-from-Bloomington-City-Councilmembers-land-swap-Seminary-Pointe.pdf .pdf file of letter]]
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	* '''2025-12-01 RDC postpones land-donation resolution.''' The RDC delays action on a resolution that could make the roughly $7 million College Square property available for a host hotel at little or no cost, after councilmembers Isabel Piedmont-Smith, Hopi Stosberg and Andy Ruff speak against the approach. [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/bloomington-rdc-puts-off-resolution-on-donating-real-estate-land-for-host-hotel/ BSB coverage]]		* '''2025-12-01 RDC postpones land-donation resolution.''' The RDC delays action on a resolution that could make the roughly $7 million College Square property available for a host hotel at little or no cost, after councilmembers Isabel Piedmont-Smith, Hopi Stosberg and Andy Ruff speak against the approach. [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/bloomington-rdc-puts-off-resolution-on-donating-real-estate-land-for-host-hotel/ BSB coverage]]

			* '''2025-11-26 Host hotel land donation proposed.''' Bloomington’s redevelopment commission places a resolution on its Dec. 1 agenda proposing to make its roughly $7 million College Square property at Fourth Street and College Avenue available at no or nominal cost for a convention center host hotel, reversing the city’s previous reimbursement position and conflicting with the city council’s call for a minimum $6.895 million sale price. [[https://bloomington.in.gov/onboard/meetingFiles/15911/download#page=21 copy of resolution]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2024-05-06-Letter-from-City-Council-Members-to-Blomington-RDC.pdf copy of letter]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/bloomington-might-donate-7m-site-for-convention-center-host-hotel-after-year-long-stalemate/ BSB coverage]]

	* '''2025-11-19 Host-hotel no-deal scenario.''' The CIB discusses the possibility that Dora Hospitality and the RDC will not reach a College Square deal, while construction continues and CIB members consider whether to reduce hotel scope items such as a 3rd Street skywalk, rooftop bar and underground parking. [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/cib-braces-for-no-deal-scenario-with-preferred-hotelier-on-bloomington-convention-center/ BSB coverage]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2025-11-19-CIB-slide-deck-construction-update-.pdf copy of construction update]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/RFP-Monroe-Convention-Center-Hotel-Developer-CIB-6-28-24_FINAL-compressed.pdf copy of 2024 hotel RFP]]		* '''2025-11-19 Host-hotel no-deal scenario.''' The CIB discusses the possibility that Dora Hospitality and the RDC will not reach a College Square deal, while construction continues and CIB members consider whether to reduce hotel scope items such as a 3rd Street skywalk, rooftop bar and underground parking. [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/cib-braces-for-no-deal-scenario-with-preferred-hotelier-on-bloomington-convention-center/ BSB coverage]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2025-11-19-CIB-slide-deck-construction-update-.pdf copy of construction update]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/RFP-Monroe-Convention-Center-Hotel-Developer-CIB-6-28-24_FINAL-compressed.pdf copy of 2024 hotel RFP]]

Monroe County Jail

Chronically Dave — Tue, 14 Jul 2026 18:03:56 GMT

2026

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	=== 2026 ===		=== 2026 ===

	* '''2026-07-10 New lawsuit: Alleged unconstitutional conditions at jail.''' The ACLU, on behalf of detainees Tayler Grubb and Joseph Marrero, files a proposed federal class action against the Monroe County council, Monroe County commissioners and sheriff Ruben Marté, alleging that overcrowding and deteriorating conditions violate constitutional rights of prisoners. The filing asks for class certification and a permanent injunction requiring constitutional conditions. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-10-Complaint-1-26-cv-01460-Grubb-Marrero-council-commissioners-sheriff-jail-lawsuit.pdf copy of ~~court filing~~]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/new-federal-lawsuit-alleges-unconstitutional-conditions-at-monroe-county-jail/ BSB coverage]]		* '''2026-07-10 New lawsuit: Alleged unconstitutional conditions at jail.''' The ACLU, on behalf of detainees Tayler Grubb and Joseph Marrero, files a proposed federal class action against the Monroe County council, Monroe County commissioners and sheriff Ruben Marté, alleging that overcrowding and deteriorating conditions violate constitutional rights of prisoners. The filing asks for class certification and a permanent injunction requiring constitutional conditions. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-10-Complaint-1-26-cv-01460-Grubb-Marrero-council-commissioners-sheriff-jail-lawsuit.pdf copy of complaint] ] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-10-1-26-cv-01460-paintiff-brief-in-support-certify-class-Monroe-County-jail-073111901327.pdf copy of brief in support of class certification]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/new-federal-lawsuit-alleges-unconstitutional-conditions-at-monroe-county-jail/ BSB coverage]]

	* '''2026-07-09 Jail-site panel weighs Curry Building option.''' The Collaborative Justice Project Working Subcommittee hears public and member support for renovating the downtown justice center with expansion into the county-owned Curry Building. Members agree to rank five scenarios ahead of their July 13 meeting. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-09-CJPWS-Collaborative-Justice-Project-Working-Subcommittee-20260709-Monroe-County-Jail-Site-Evaluation.pdf copy of site evaluation briefing]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/support-heard-for-renovation-of-monroe-county-jail-with-added-space-using-curry-building/ BSB coverage]]		* '''2026-07-09 Jail-site panel weighs Curry Building option.''' The Collaborative Justice Project Working Subcommittee hears public and member support for renovating the downtown justice center with expansion into the county-owned Curry Building. Members agree to rank five scenarios ahead of their July 13 meeting. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-09-CJPWS-Collaborative-Justice-Project-Working-Subcommittee-20260709-Monroe-County-Jail-Site-Evaluation.pdf copy of site evaluation briefing]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/support-heard-for-renovation-of-monroe-county-jail-with-added-space-using-curry-building/ BSB coverage]]

Bloomington Convention Center (formerly Monroe Convention Center)

Chronically Dave — Sun, 12 Jul 2026 23:01:25 GMT

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	=== '''Timeline: Bloomington Convention Center''' ===		=== '''Timeline: Bloomington Convention Center''' ===
	=== 2026 ===		=== 2026 ===

			* '''2026-07-10 Seminary Pointe land swap: Bloomington city council reacts to appraisal amount''' Bloomington city council president Isak Asare and councilmembers Isabel Piedmont-Smith, Dave Rollo, Andy Ruff and Hopi Stosberg urge the Bloomington redevelopment commission to approve exchanging the College Square property for Seminary Pointe after a First Appraisal Group valuation peegs Seminary Pointe’s four parcels at $7 million. That's roughly equal to College Square they say, and advocate for a land swapl, which they say will preserve 29 deeply affordable apartments near downtown services and transit. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-10-Letter-to-RDC-from-Bloomington-City-Councilmembers-land-swap-Seminary-Pointe.pdf .pdf file of letter]]

			* '''2026-07-08 Host hotel proposals.''' Monroe County’s capital improvement board (CIB) hears competing proposals for development of the Seminary Pointe block as a host hotel—from Dora Hospitality and MHG Hotels. The proposals are for a 200-plus-room convention center host hotel projected to open in 2029, with major differences over parking and financing. The presentations are made against the backdrop of a possible Seminary Pointe–College Square land swap. The CIB is still looking at July 15 at the day when the full CIB will consider the recommendation of a hotel evaluation committee to choose a hotel developer. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-04-24-CIB-Monroe-Capital-Improvement-Board-Bloomington-Convention-Center-Hotel-Developer-RFP-04-24-26_FINAL.pdf copy of request for proposals]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-01-capital-improvement-board-Seminary-Pointe-host-hotelier-CIB-Slides-for-Hotel-RFP-interview-rec-after-initial-analysis.pdf copy of slide deck]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-06-email-exchange-Seminary-Pointe-RDC-CIB-host-hotel-land-swap.pdf copy of email exchange]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/dora-mhg-pitch-host-hotel-plans-for-bloomington-convention-center-land-swap-question-lingers/ BSB coverage]]

	* '''2026-07-06 Seminary Pointe land-swap campaign.''' At least 60 people rally at Bloomington city hall as Bloomington Homes for All urges the Bloomington redevelopment commission (RDC) and Monroe County capital improvement board (CIB) to negotiate a land swap that would move the proposed convention center host hotel to College Square and preserve Seminary Pointe’s 29 low-rent apartments and commercial spaces. The same day, Bloomington mayor Kerry Thomson’s administration issues a news release that essentially calls on the CIB to submit a proposal in the context of the RDC's public offering of College Square. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2024-02-21-Version-of-Capital-Improvement-Board-Interlocal-Agreement-Approved-by-Monroe-County-Commissioners-Feb-21-2024-Convention-Center.pdf copy of interlocal agreement]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-06-Seminary-Pointe-Kerry-Thomson-RDC-CIB-redevelopment-commission-capital-improvement-board-host-hotel.pdf copy of mayor's press release]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-06-Whikehart-statement-CIB-Seminary-Pointe-College-Square-Bloomington-mayor-Kerry-Thomson.pdf copy of CIB response]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-06-20-Seminary-Pointe-business-plan-Bloomington-Homes-for-All.pdf copy of Homes for All plan]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/housing-advocates-rally-at-bloomington-city-hall-as-two-key-public-bodies-trade-blame/ BSB coverage]]		* '''2026-07-06 Seminary Pointe land-swap campaign.''' At least 60 people rally at Bloomington city hall as Bloomington Homes for All urges the Bloomington redevelopment commission (RDC) and Monroe County capital improvement board (CIB) to negotiate a land swap that would move the proposed convention center host hotel to College Square and preserve Seminary Pointe’s 29 low-rent apartments and commercial spaces. The same day, Bloomington mayor Kerry Thomson’s administration issues a news release that essentially calls on the CIB to submit a proposal in the context of the RDC's public offering of College Square. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2024-02-21-Version-of-Capital-Improvement-Board-Interlocal-Agreement-Approved-by-Monroe-County-Commissioners-Feb-21-2024-Convention-Center.pdf copy of interlocal agreement]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-06-Seminary-Pointe-Kerry-Thomson-RDC-CIB-redevelopment-commission-capital-improvement-board-host-hotel.pdf copy of mayor's press release]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-06-Whikehart-statement-CIB-Seminary-Pointe-College-Square-Bloomington-mayor-Kerry-Thomson.pdf copy of CIB response]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-06-20-Seminary-Pointe-business-plan-Bloomington-Homes-for-All.pdf copy of Homes for All plan]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/housing-advocates-rally-at-bloomington-city-hall-as-two-key-public-bodies-trade-blame/ BSB coverage]]
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	* '''2025-12-15 RDC host-hotel resolution.''' The RDC adopts an amended Resolution 25-136 supporting a convention center host hotel on the College Square property, with John West dissenting, while staff indicate no Dora deal is ready for the CIB’s Dec. 17 deadline. [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/live-report-convention-center-host-hotel-hopewell-rezoning/ BSB live coverage]]		* '''2025-12-15 RDC host-hotel resolution.''' The RDC adopts an amended Resolution 25-136 supporting a convention center host hotel on the College Square property, with John West dissenting, while staff indicate no Dora deal is ready for the CIB’s Dec. 17 deadline. [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/live-report-convention-center-host-hotel-hopewell-rezoning/ BSB live coverage]]

	* '''2025-12-10 Council-RDC work session.''' City council members and RDC members discuss possible use of the College Square site for a host hotel, with several council members objecting to a no-cost or low-cost land transfer and pointing to a 2024 council letter seeking to recoup the roughly $6.9 million purchase cost. [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/as-convention-center-rises-bloomington-council-bristles-at-potential-host-hotel-land-donation/ BSB coverage]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2025-12-10-Packet-memo-on-host-hotel-convention-center-expansion.pdf copy of staff memo]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2025-12-10-Bloomington-redevelopment-commission-rdc-city-council-host-hotel.m4a copy of meeting audio]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2024-05-06-Letter-from-City-Council-Members-to-Blomington-RDC.pdf copy of 2024 council letter]]		* '''2025-12-10 Council-RDC work session.''' City council members and RDC members discuss possible use of the College Square site for a host hotel, with several council members objecting to a no-cost or low-cost land transfer and pointing to a 2024 council letter seeking to recoup the roughly $6.9 million purchase cost. [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/as-convention-center-rises-bloomington-council-bristles-at-potential-host-hotel-land-donation/ BSB coverage]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2025-12-10-Packet-memo-on-host-hotel-convention-center-expansion.pdf copy of staff memo]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2025-12-10-Bloomington-redevelopment-commission-rdc-city-council-host-hotel.m4a copy of meeting audio]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2024-05-06-Letter-from-City-Council-Members-to-Blomington-RDC.pdf copy of 2024 council letter]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2019-06-10-MCC-Final-Hunden-Hotel-Report-2019-06-10.pdf Hunden Hotel Report]]

	* '''2025-12-01 RDC postpones land-donation resolution.''' The RDC delays action on a resolution that could make the roughly $7 million College Square property available for a host hotel at little or no cost, after councilmembers Isabel Piedmont-Smith, Hopi Stosberg and Andy Ruff speak against the approach. [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/bloomington-rdc-puts-off-resolution-on-donating-real-estate-land-for-host-hotel/ BSB coverage]]		* '''2025-12-01 RDC postpones land-donation resolution.''' The RDC delays action on a resolution that could make the roughly $7 million College Square property available for a host hotel at little or no cost, after councilmembers Isabel Piedmont-Smith, Hopi Stosberg and Andy Ruff speak against the approach. [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/bloomington-rdc-puts-off-resolution-on-donating-real-estate-land-for-host-hotel/ BSB coverage]]

Monroe County Jail

Chronically Dave — Sat, 11 Jul 2026 16:19:43 GMT

2026

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	=== 2026 ===		=== 2026 ===

			* '''2026-07-10 New lawsuit: Alleged unconstitutional conditions at jail.''' The ACLU, on behalf of detainees Tayler Grubb and Joseph Marrero, files a proposed federal class action against the Monroe County council, Monroe County commissioners and sheriff Ruben Marté, alleging that overcrowding and deteriorating conditions violate constitutional rights of prisoners. The filing asks for class certification and a permanent injunction requiring constitutional conditions. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-10-Complaint-1-26-cv-01460-Grubb-Marrero-council-commissioners-sheriff-jail-lawsuit.pdf copy of court filing]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/new-federal-lawsuit-alleges-unconstitutional-conditions-at-monroe-county-jail/ BSB coverage]]

			* '''2026-07-09 Jail-site panel weighs Curry Building option.''' The Collaborative Justice Project Working Subcommittee hears public and member support for renovating the downtown justice center with expansion into the county-owned Curry Building. Members agree to rank five scenarios ahead of their July 13 meeting. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-09-CJPWS-Collaborative-Justice-Project-Working-Subcommittee-20260709-Monroe-County-Jail-Site-Evaluation.pdf copy of site evaluation briefing]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/support-heard-for-renovation-of-monroe-county-jail-with-added-space-using-curry-building/ BSB coverage]]

			* '''2026-07-09 Jail-overcrowding emergency.''' Monroe County commissioners vote 2–0 to declare a jail-overcrowding emergency and direct county lawyers to negotiate agreements with surrounding counties to house prisoners. That's after sheriff Ruben Marté reports a functional capacity of 186, recommends preparing to move 50 to 100 inmates. Estimated first-year housing and transport costs range between $2.94 million and $5.09 million. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-09-Increased-Trends-in-Jaily-Population-sheriff-jail-condition-report-Ruben-Marte-emergency.pdf copy of sheriff's report]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-09-Increased-Trends-in-Jaily-Population-sheriff-jail-condition-report-Ruben-Marte-emergency-Appendix-A.pdf copy of report appendix]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/monroe-county-declares-jail-overcrowding-emergency-sheriff-preps-to-move-up-to-100-inmates/ BSB coverage]]

			* '''2026-07-09 Jail site selection.''' Monroe County commissioners Jody Madeira and Julie Thomas unveil a dynamic map and site-evaluation grid and argue that time and at least 25 acres of space make North Park the only location meeting their requirements for a new jail and eventual co-location of justice offices, as the Collaborative Justice Project Working Subcommittee prepares a non-binding recommendation on sites inside Bloomington. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-09-commissioenrs-jail-Final-Justice-Center-site-comparison.xlsx copy of site-comparison spreadsheet]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-09-commissioners-jail-site-matrix-evaluation.pdf copy of site-evaluation matrix]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/monroe-county-commissioners-unveil-jail-site-map-scoring-grid-as-they-make-case-for-north-park/ BSB coverage]]

	* '''2026-07-06 Jail-site shortlist: 5 sites.''' The Collaborative Justice Project Working Subcommittee narrows 16 properties to five options for a new Monroe County jail: renovating the current facilities with the Curry Building: two Tapp Road-area sites: the Thomson property at 1620 S. Rogers St.; and the Fullerton Pike property at SR 37. The committee adopts 123,455 square feet from the Aug. 29, 2025 North Park design as its operational-adequacy benchmark ahead of a planned July 13 recommendation. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-06-jail-committee-evaluation-matrix-Collaborative-Justice-Project-Working-Subcommittee2.pdf copy of partially annotated evaluation matrix]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/monroe-county-jail-panel-narrows-options-inside-city-to-five-sites-ahead-of-final-meetings/ BSB coverage]]		* '''2026-07-06 Jail-site shortlist: 5 sites.''' The Collaborative Justice Project Working Subcommittee narrows 16 properties to five options for a new Monroe County jail: renovating the current facilities with the Curry Building: two Tapp Road-area sites: the Thomson property at 1620 S. Rogers St.; and the Fullerton Pike property at SR 37. The committee adopts 123,455 square feet from the Aug. 29, 2025 North Park design as its operational-adequacy benchmark ahead of a planned July 13 recommendation. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-06-jail-committee-evaluation-matrix-Collaborative-Justice-Project-Working-Subcommittee2.pdf copy of partially annotated evaluation matrix]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/monroe-county-jail-panel-narrows-options-inside-city-to-five-sites-ahead-of-final-meetings/ BSB coverage]]

Bloomington Convention Center (formerly Monroe Convention Center)

Chronically Dave — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 14:02:56 GMT

2026

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	=== '''Timeline: Bloomington Convention Center''' ===		=== '''Timeline: Bloomington Convention Center''' ===
	=== 2026 ===		=== 2026 ===

			* '''2026-07-06 Seminary Pointe land-swap campaign.''' At least 60 people rally at Bloomington city hall as Bloomington Homes for All urges the Bloomington redevelopment commission (RDC) and Monroe County capital improvement board (CIB) to negotiate a land swap that would move the proposed convention center host hotel to College Square and preserve Seminary Pointe’s 29 low-rent apartments and commercial spaces. The same day, Bloomington mayor Kerry Thomson’s administration issues a news release that essentially calls on the CIB to submit a proposal in the context of the RDC's public offering of College Square. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2024-02-21-Version-of-Capital-Improvement-Board-Interlocal-Agreement-Approved-by-Monroe-County-Commissioners-Feb-21-2024-Convention-Center.pdf copy of interlocal agreement]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-06-Seminary-Pointe-Kerry-Thomson-RDC-CIB-redevelopment-commission-capital-improvement-board-host-hotel.pdf copy of mayor's press release]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-06-Whikehart-statement-CIB-Seminary-Pointe-College-Square-Bloomington-mayor-Kerry-Thomson.pdf copy of CIB response]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-06-20-Seminary-Pointe-business-plan-Bloomington-Homes-for-All.pdf copy of Homes for All plan]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/housing-advocates-rally-at-bloomington-city-hall-as-two-key-public-bodies-trade-blame/ BSB coverage]]

	* '''2026-07-01 Convention center host hotel field narrowed.''' Monroe County’s capital improvement board (CIB) advances Dora Hospitality and MHG Hotels to be interviewed. They are the only two of five responses that meet RFP submission requirements for the Bloomington convention center host hotel at Seminary Pointe. Interviews are set for July 8, which keeps the CIB on track for July 15 final consideration. It further dims prospects for a College Square land swap. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-04-24-CIB-Monroe-Capital-Improvement-Board-Bloomington-Convention-Center-Hotel-Developer-RFP-04-24-26_FINAL.pdf copy of RFP]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-01-capital-improvement-board-Seminary-Pointe-host-hotelier-CIB-Slides-for-Hotel-RFP-interview-rec-after-initial-analysis.pdf copy of meeting slide deck]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/cib-narrows-bloomington-convention-center-host-hotel-field-to-dora-mhg/ BSB coverage]]		* '''2026-07-01 Convention center host hotel field narrowed.''' Monroe County’s capital improvement board (CIB) advances Dora Hospitality and MHG Hotels to be interviewed. They are the only two of five responses that meet RFP submission requirements for the Bloomington convention center host hotel at Seminary Pointe. Interviews are set for July 8, which keeps the CIB on track for July 15 final consideration. It further dims prospects for a College Square land swap. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-04-24-CIB-Monroe-Capital-Improvement-Board-Bloomington-Convention-Center-Hotel-Developer-RFP-04-24-26_FINAL.pdf copy of RFP]] [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-01-capital-improvement-board-Seminary-Pointe-host-hotelier-CIB-Slides-for-Hotel-RFP-interview-rec-after-initial-analysis.pdf copy of meeting slide deck]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/cib-narrows-bloomington-convention-center-host-hotel-field-to-dora-mhg/ BSB coverage]]

Monroe County Jail

Chronically Dave — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 13:03:03 GMT

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	=== 2026 ===		=== 2026 ===

			* '''2026-07-06 Jail-site shortlist: 5 sites.''' The Collaborative Justice Project Working Subcommittee narrows 16 properties to five options for a new Monroe County jail: renovating the current facilities with the Curry Building: two Tapp Road-area sites: the Thomson property at 1620 S. Rogers St.; and the Fullerton Pike property at SR 37. The committee adopts 123,455 square feet from the Aug. 29, 2025 North Park design as its operational-adequacy benchmark ahead of a planned July 13 recommendation. [[https://bloomdocs.org/wp-content/uploads/simple-file-list/2026-07-06-jail-committee-evaluation-matrix-Collaborative-Justice-Project-Working-Subcommittee2.pdf copy of partially annotated evaluation matrix]] [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/monroe-county-jail-panel-narrows-options-inside-city-to-five-sites-ahead-of-final-meetings/ BSB coverage]]

	* '''2026-07-02 Commissioners decline jail-site role.''' Monroe County commissioners take no action at their regular meeting to appoint a member to the Collaborative Justice Project Working Subcommittee and approve a letter of representation with Clark, Johnson & Knight, after which commissioners Jody Madeira and Julie Thomas confirm the board of commissioners will not formally participate in the jail-site committee, but Madeira will participate as a member of the public. [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/jail-site-panel-to-start-scoring-monroe-county-commissioners-decline-role/ BSB coverage]]		* '''2026-07-02 Commissioners decline jail-site role.''' Monroe County commissioners take no action at their regular meeting to appoint a member to the Collaborative Justice Project Working Subcommittee and approve a letter of representation with Clark, Johnson & Knight, after which commissioners Jody Madeira and Julie Thomas confirm the board of commissioners will not formally participate in the jail-site committee, but Madeira will participate as a member of the public. [[https://bsquarebulletin.com/jail-site-panel-to-start-scoring-monroe-county-commissioners-decline-role/ BSB coverage]]