By Adam Studzinski

BLOOMINGTON – The City of Bloomington is considering backing out of the Metro Zone agreement with the Town of Normal.

The deal was created in 1986 as a way to help drive economic activity. It allows for the sharing of tax revenue on the west side of the two communities.

Bloomington Mayor Tari Renner doesn’t believe the agreement is in the interest of Bloomington taxpayers anymore.

“That doesn’t mean that, of course, can’t work on something to replace it. I think, absolutely, we need a fresh approach that’s more consistent with the BN Advantage initiative,” Renner said.

Renner added over the 30 year history of the deal, Bloomington has received about $5 million and Normal has received $12 million. Bloomington will vote on unilaterally terminating the deal at its City Council meeting next week.

Normal Mayor Chris Koos said in a statement he is puzzled by the decision, adding the partnership has been a good one.

“In the history of our two communities, the  Metro  Zone  agreement  has  clearly  been  one  of  the  most  enduring  and successful partnerships between the two municipalities,” Koos said.

Koos added the move is “disconcerting.”

Normal City Manager Mark Peterson said the city moving to unilaterally end the deal isn’t how this should be done.

“It clearly was not envisioned by the original council that adopted this agreement to terminate unilaterally,” said Peterson. “It was clearly by mutual agreement.”

Renner said their legal advice indicates either party can back out, since the deal has no end date.

Adam Studzinski can be reached at [email protected].