Bloomington creates transportation commission

Posted on June 13, 2017
Bloomington City Hall
(WJBC file photo)

By Howard Packowitz

BLOOMINGTON- Bloomington Mayor Tari Renner will soon nominate the seven charter members of a new commission which will advise the city council on transportation issues.

The council created the advisory panel Monday night despite objections from Alderwoman Diana Hauman, who said a citizens’ committee isn’t needed because city staffers with technical expertise should be making recommendations.

Alderwoman Amelia Buragas said the commission will help facilitate increased public involvement on key transportation issues. “This is a step in the right direction to help us, especially as we deal with some of these bigger policy issues.” Buragas said. “We have a lot of issues to take on.”

Alderman David Sage voted for creating the panel, but was worried political appointees might make decisions impacting citizens’ safety. “I think inevitably, in short order we could see some overreach.” Sage said. “Political appointees could be impacting public safety.”

Three of the seven members are supposed to have a demonstrated interest or experience in regional public transportation, accessibility for the disabled, or bicycle transportation.

Howard Packowitz can be reached at [email protected]

 

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