Bloomington City Council Adopts 2026 Budget Amid Transparency Concerns
The Bloomington City Council adopted the city's $163 million 2026 budget in a 7-2 vote.
The main topic of discussion was the council's relationship with the mayor's administration, with two council members and two public attendees expressing "lacking trust" in Mayor Kerry Thomson's administration.
Budget Breakdown
City Controller Jessica McClellan stated that the total budget is supported by an increase in general fund revenue from property taxes, which rose from $54 million in 2024 to $55.6 million in 2025.
- Property taxes from the Parks and Recreation fund were moved to the general fund, contributing to the increase.
- As of January 1, 2025, Bloomington holds about $249 million in outstanding debt obligations.
- However, this number does not include interest rates, which would bring the total to approximately $414 million in outstanding debt.
No trust
Author's summary: Bloomington adopts 2026 budget amid transparency concerns.