By Andy Dahn
BLOOMINGTON – Residents gathered at a town hall meeting Tuesday night to voice their displeasure and concern with the state of Bloomington’s government.
The meeting generated discussion about the city’s budget deficit, plans of downtown redevelopment and proposed limits on the public comment portion of city council meetings. Resident Monica Matts said tax increases continue to take a toll on the community’s working class citizens.
“There are a lot of people that barely make their ends meet,” Matts said. “I feel guilty that we can raise taxes on this and that and still talk about building a new hotel.”
Council members are currently discussing limiting public comment to 15 minutes and requiring residents to speak strictly about agenda items.
“If we lose our voice, government is going to be in charge,” said one citizen. “It’s simple, we cannot lose that right. That’s why it’s the First Amendment.”
Dawn Nowlin of Heyworth said more power belongs to citizens when it comes to decision making.
“I want to see the people pushing for what they want,” Nowlin said. “Not somebody like David Hales telling everyone what he wants out of this city. I want to see the council do what the people want.”
Resident Sue Feldkamp echoed those thoughts.
“I can’t afford to pay for hotels and I can’t afford to pay for things we don’t need,” said Feldkamp. “Every penny counts. I want my money going where the people want it. I’d like to see the streets being fixed and I’d like my tax money to go where we want it to go.”
John Brant said progress starts with positive dialogue.
“I think we can accomplish many things in improving our community and further development with suggestion and support,” Brant said. “That does a lot more good than personal insults.”
The meeting was organized and hosted by Alderman Kevin Lower. City Manager David Hales and council members Amelia Buragas and Jim Fruin were also on hand to hear from the public.
Andy Dahn can be reached at andy.dahn@cumulus.com.
