Bloomington Economic Development Commission, March 17, 2026

The Bloomington Economic Development Commission met on March 17, 2026, to discuss various topics related to economic development and community engagement. Key procurement-related discussions included the potential use of property tax abatements as incentives to stimulate investment and business retention in blighted areas such as Seminary Square and Hopewell. The commission considered the impact of reduced assessed property values on tax revenues and the need for clear local criteria and state code compliance for abatements, focusing on affordable housing and job creation. They also discussed the importance of retaining key businesses like Kroger to support neighborhoods. Additionally, the commission reviewed new state legislation (SB89) related to alcohol permits and the need for establishing local policies and priorities for issuing such permits as economic development tools. Staff updates included ongoing efforts to improve business permitting processes and outreach to support local businesses, as well as collaboration with the Monroe County Community School Corporation (MCCSC) on workforce development initiatives involving student job placement requirements. No formal votes on procurement actions were recorded, but the commission identified several areas for future agenda items and potential policy development to enhance economic incentives and streamline business support.