By Adam Studzinski

BLOOMINGTON – Bloomington aldermen voted 7-2 Monday night to terminate the Metro Zone agreement with Normal.

The deal, which has existed since 1986, allowed the two to share tax revenue on the west side.

Aldermen Diana Hauman and Jim Fruin voted against the proposal.

“I’m uncomfortable with the idea we’re dissolving this without having something to take its place,” Hauman said.

Fruin said it’s critical for the two communities to work together.

“I just don’t want to give up,” said Fruin. “I hope that Normal will be receptive to furthering discussion, but I think it’s critical for a larger regional purpose.”

Bloomington Mayor Tari Renner said the deal was no long in the best interest of the city’s taxpayers. He explained since the agreement was first signed Bloomington has received about $5 million and Normal has received $12 million.

Normal Mayor Chris Koos said the vote wasn’t a surprise. He added there’s no doubt this move has eroded some trust.

“Bloomington has said that once they dissolve this agreement they would look forward to new ways to cooperate with the Town of Normal, never once offering what that might be,” Koos said.

Alderman Kevin Lower called this a business-type decision. He said to properly represent citizens they need to be sure there are “benefits as well as expenses on both sides.”

Also Monday, Bloomington took a look at next fiscal year’s budget, which is proposed at $213.8 million dollars. That’s a 3 percent increase over last year.

Adam Studzinski can be reached at [email protected].