By Howard Packowitz

BLOOMINGTON – Bloomington Alderman Diana Hauman, who announced Monday she’s not running for re-election next year, says elected leaders don’t respect each other.

Speaking with Sam Wood on WJBC’s Afternoon Report, Hauman declined to blame any one person or particular event for the council’s dysfunction. However, Hauman is frustrated at her inability to make the council work together as a cohesive unit.

“It’s not all my responsibility, but I did feel with my background in organizational development and leadership development, (and) teamwork, that I would have more of a positive impact on helping us with a common vision,” Hauman said.

Hauman’s announcement came only a week after criticizing the process that led to the selection of Decatur City Manager Tim Gleason to manage Bloomington’s city government. Hauman supported Gleason’s appointment, but said the selection process was not effective and she believed the council didn’t work as a team.

Hauman has represented Ward 8, which covers parts of Bloomington’s east and southeast sides, since Mayor Tari Renner appointed her in September 2014. She was elected to a full term the following year, and ran for mayor against Renner in 2017.

Hauman advised the next Ward 8 alderman to have thick skin.

“Listen to the people whose opinions and advice you respect, and try to let some of the naysayers, thank them for the input, but try not to let the naysayers get you down,” she said.

Hauman ruled out a future run for mayor and hopes the council will work on economic development during her final months in office.

Howard Packowitz can be reached at [email protected]