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Bloomington's scramble to pay $75M tab means fee, tax hikes
By M.K. Guetersloh
mkguetersloh@pantagraph.com
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BLOOMINGTON -- Taking out the trash and buying a six-pack of beer in Bloomington already costs more than it did two weeks ago.

Soon, washing dishes and taking showers may too, as could new clothes and concerts at the U.S. Cellular Coliseum. All in an effort to stave off a $3 million budget shortfall.

For years, a strong economy generated the tax money the city needed to add services and programs with little need for those types of fee hikes. Now a slowing economy, pension and Coliseum expenses, and a drop in tax revenues has changed that, leaving city officials scrambling to pay the $75 million general fund tab that kicks in May 1.

In addition to several expected tax and fee hikes, they’ve also agreed to carve $1.5 million from the city budget and plan to shave $1 million more.

That combination will eventually solve the current problem, but may also be a harbinger of things to come. Mayor Steve Stockton already has warned that more fee hikes are likely.

“It has been the policy of past councils to put additional strain onto the general fund and not raise rates,” Stockton said. “No doubt we will need to talk about this.”

Debate expected to continue

In recent months, the shortfall and how to solve it has generated considerable debate among city officials and the larger community.

Unexpected costs for the police and fire pensions, the Coliseum and flat-lined sales tax revenue are blamed for the budget shortfall this year. That has sparked a debate on cutting services and raising fees, but also on how the city has spent its money. Many aldermen say they are concerned with the large expenses such as the emergency dispatch center, the Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts and the Coliseum that have added staff, but smaller perks and costs have raised eyebrows, too.

The $1.5 million in cuts approved by the council include travel, staff awards dinner, postage and savings in insurance premiums.

Last month, council members agreed in principle to hike the city sales tax from 7.5 percent to 7.75 percent to generate roughly $2.5 million in annual revenue. Most of that money, $1.9 million annually, will be earmarked to pay the construction bonds used to build the Coliseum.

In addition, council members approved a hike in the city’s package liquor tax from 2 to 4 percent, generating an additional $300,000 a year. They also raised the monthly garbage fee from $5 to $7 per household, adding $600,000 to the city’s coffers.

Aldermen won’t receive specifics from City Manager Tom Hamilton on the additional $1 million in needed cuts until March. Talk includes cutting seasonal staff, computer equipment maintenance and park programs.

Programs studied

The council also is expected to discuss other areas where it could save money over the long term, including garbage. Nearly $6 million annually is spent for trash collection, bulk waste pickup and curbside recycling.

Right now, 18 people work on six, three-person crews to collect garbage, but other cities use one-person trucks.

“We should be looking at the latest techniques and equipment so we can plan for the best, most efficient system for the city,” said Ward 4 Alderman Judy Stearns.

But Michael Jefferson, a regional representative for American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Local 699, said one-person trucks may not result in the savings some think.

“One person can’t cover that much ground as quickly as a three-person truck,” said Jefferson.

In addition, the up-front cost of buying new trucks can be a major expense, Jefferson added, noting the $260,000 trucks are nearly twice as costly as current city vehicles.

Employee cuts?

More study also is needed on an early retirement program for senior employees that some think should be considered.

Ward 3 Alderman Kevin Huette and Ward 9 Alderman Jim Fruin are skeptical any program would save the city money — especially if an employee would have to be replaced, as in the case of department administrators.

Hamilton does not have estimates on how much might be saved. In the meantime, the city has a hiring freeze in the wake of the budget debate and nine positions remain unfilled.

But the loss of employees does not sit well with Ward 6 Alderman Karen Schmidt, who said fewer employees will eventually hurt city services.

“If there were people lollygagging around, I’d be asking a lot more questions about our staffing levels,” Schmidt said.

The Coliseum problem

But the U.S. Cellular Coliseum remains the elephant in the room.

The city must find a way to pay down the downtown facility’s $29.5 million bond debt because, despite a projected operating profit of more than $700,000 for the fiscal year ending April 30, the number of events has not generated enough revenue to do so since it opened nearly two years ago.

In its first year, the Coliseum cost the city an unexpected $2.5 million; this year’s costs are pegged at $1.6 million. In October, an audit of the Coliseum’s financial records concluded the bonds should be accounted separately from operations and the Coliseum’s management has repeatedly maintained its 10-year contract with the city does not require it to pay for the bonds.

As to the current shortfall, an additional ticket fee will be studied. But the mayor estimated a $1 tax would generate only about $400,000 annually, or about 20 percent of the bond payment.

That reality, and the need to rebuild reserves, now means a sales tax hike is likely this summer. A majority of council members support the raise — the first in eight years. A final vote could come at tonight’s council meeting.

The reserve fund, which helps cover bills and emergencies, is about $4.6 million — about $3 million short of what financial experts recommend. The council will consider raising the reserve minimum to 15 percent of its budget at its meeting Monday.

But Huette said the city shouldn’t be given “a new pot of gold” to solve its problems.

“I have been vehemently opposed to the sales tax (increase) because once that money comes in, that tax will never be reduced,” he said.

But there is a grudging agreement that something must be done, and few other options would raise the necessary amount of revenue.

More costs to come

But even more sales tax revenue won’t solve all the city’s budget woes.

The mayor warned that long-term plans for a $25 million-plus regional water project and a $3 million deficit in the city’s sewer fund may mean more fee hikes before too long.

After droughts in the 1980s, city officials decided they needed another water source in addition to Lake Bloomington and Evergreen Lake. A proposal would use the Mahomet Aquifer as the source, but no funding has been set aside to finance the project.

Water Department Director Craig Cummings said a plan presented last year would hike water rates 7 percent, about $3 per month, for several years to begin saving for the project. But costs have already increased since then.

The city also is studying how to solve a $3 million sewer fund deficit. The minimum rate, less than $3 per month, hasn’t been raised since 1996. City officials aren’t sure how much of a hike would be needed to cover the shortfall.

Sewer rates haven’t been increased in more than a decade. For now, the general fund is covering the deficit. The minimum rate of $2.72 per month hasn’t been raised since May 1996. At this time, there are no estimates on how much rates could be increased.

“This council will have to decide: Do we address this or do we let someone else deal with the sewer fund?” Stockton said.



Taxes and fees



The city of Bloomington will likely use a combination of $2.5 million in budget cuts, $600,000 in annual fee hikes and $3 million in tax increases to cover a $3 million gap in its general fund and annual payments toward the $29.5 million in bonds for the U.S. Cellular Coliseum.

Approved:

-- $1.5 million in cuts to areas including seasonal personnel, Miller Park Zoo hours, insurance premiums, and travel and training budgets.

-- $2 monthly bump to garbage fees, from $5 to $7, expected to generate an extra $600,000.

-- 2 percent increase in the city’s package liquor tax will likely generate $300,000.

Pending:

-- $1 million more in cuts expected to come before the City Council in March.

-- A sales tax increase from 7.5 percent to 7.75 percent likely will be voted on today. Passage would generate about $2.5 million in new annual revenue.

-- Raises to water and sewer rates will be studied. Money is needed to fund the creation of a second water supply for the city and pay for a $3 million deficit in the sewer fund.

-- A possible ticket fee at the Coliseum also will be studied.

Take a look
Mario Davis, left, and William Arthur Hosea III pick up garbage on Ballyford in Bloomington as Julian Sigler drives the truck Tuesday morning. (The Pantagraph/LORI ANN COOK) (February 5, 2007)
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Reader comments on this story - 177 total

Note: All views and opinions expressed in reader comments are solely those of the individual submitting the comment, and not those of the Pantagraph or its staff.

To: the wealthy wrote on Feb 25, 2008 2:27 PM:

" I believe we were all given the same option to vote on the collesium. If you didn't exercise your right then shame on you. The council voted for the collesium AGAINST the popular vote and guess who they were elected by? You. Don't complain about not being able to have a voice, you did. "

you should double your garbage wrote on Feb 25, 2008 12:28 PM:

" rates. 7 dollars a month? wake up most people pay much more .and not raise sales tax its your dome you pay for it. we people that used to drive to bloomington to shop will stop. in a nutshell Pay for your own mistakes don't expect everyone else to pay for your fiscal iresponibility "

BOYCOTT + IMPEACH wrote on Feb 24, 2008 1:14 PM:

" IMPEACH the MAYOR AND his council,Then BOYCOTT the Coliseum and ALL city events..................


This will end the Mayors gang of thieves and eliminate Judys hockey team.
Then we can afford cops to police all the crack heads and chicago imports...... "

the wealthy wrote on Feb 21, 2008 10:23 AM:

" of bloomington voted on the colliseum being built the average family who does not make enough money to have all of their bills jacked up to cover all of these costs had not a say in whether or not it was built yet we are all effected by the debt it now holds....let the wealthy builders pay the debt, they will be the ones benefiting from the ;profit when it does well, will they send all of the residents checks when the colliseum finally makes money?? no i don't think so...let's just keep making the rich richer and the poor poorer. "

To: To relieved wrote on Feb 20, 2008 9:48 AM:

" Your numbers are what others have been commenting about - first of all the 2M credibility gap there - that is what pays for RIMCO to continue to stumble and waste taxpayers money while paying a part-time CEO over 100k to fail. Then there is the 3M that is "used" for the City insurance - some goes to the bank in Indianapolis, some goes to buy insurance premiums, and some pays commissions on those premiums - how much commission might an agent make on 2M worth of insurance? Why is this bought through agency? Why not from open markets? The "old boy" network is alive and well! Follow the money, the trail is fresh and will not dry up w/o the council and city bureaucrats begin publicly called to change. "

shoppinelsewhere wrote on Feb 20, 2008 8:14 AM:

" to all the people who are going to shop in a different town. gas is $3.00/gallon and your going out of town to save .25% in sales tax. "

Freedom wrote on Feb 19, 2008 6:59 PM:

" K.l you must be living in a cave! Bush has been very nice to corporations and over 3 million manufacturing jobs have left in the last 7 years. The goverment has almost doubled in size under bush and the entitlement programs have gotten larger. Sure we have lower taxes but have you seen the debt or deficit lately????Who do you think is going to pay for all that? You are probably one of the republicans that think The Federal Reserve is part of our goverment. Quit watching Fox news and educate yourself so you won't look so silly . "

K.L. wrote on Feb 19, 2008 10:07 AM:

" If you think things are bad on our local level...just wait and see what happens if Obama or Clinton become president. You ain't see nothin' yet if you think taxes are high now. The Judydome will seem like the least of our worries! You can add a minimum of 15% to your tax bill and watch it go down the drain. Cry about the war in Iraq all you want, but no matter how much they promise that the troops will come home, they won't, and they KNOW that now! As they tax corporations more heavily, jobs will be eliminated. Who do you think keeps you employed??? The corporations! Better be nice to them or you're out on your behind! If you're mad about the corporate big shots making bank, just remember, that guy was smart enough to make your company extrememly profitable, which keeps you employed! Take away his profits and he'll take away your jobs! Simple economics. And as for national health care...have you EVER seen anything the government took over get BETTER? Vote republican and keep government small! "

cappy wrote on Feb 19, 2008 1:45 AM:

" The Pantagraph needs to interview Judy and see what her solution is to her problem! That would be interesting. Only a few more years here and then we are out of this town. Bloomington is going down the drain. You need to close the Coliseum and cut your losses now. By the way, the garbage pickup service is terrible - cans and garbage all over the place after pickup. "

Interesting wrote on Feb 18, 2008 1:31 PM:

" I find it a bit ironic and interesting that many Bloomington residents were down-shouting Normal residents b/c of the recent vote to raise taxes in regards to Unit #5. Where were they when the Coliseum was going up?

Either way, taxes, at the root, are simply un-American. "

re: Ducky wrote on Feb 18, 2008 1:08 PM:

" Seriously,you think the solution is to single out the management level employees of the company that is basiccally keeping Bloomington Normal alive? B-N would be a ghost town without State Farm so you want to punish them for that? I guess whatever needs done for the good of the people, eh komrade?

p.s. I do not nor will I ever work for SF "

To: To relieved wrote on Feb 17, 2008 11:34 AM:

" It's 5M not 3M.. The people of Bloomington need to investigate CIRPA/RIMCO and the CEO. You will find all your money without getting a tax hike! It's very sad how they can keep getting this kind of money yet turn you down when you get injured on the job OR run over a pot hole and tear your vehicle up. "

Ducky wrote on Feb 16, 2008 9:22 AM:

" Hey, I've got an idea. How's about all executive level down to MG4 level employeess at State Farm get taxed 20% on their bonus to pay for this boondoggle, sure it might be targeting a group of people, but they are targeting all lower level and tenured State Farm employees by depressing their salaries in the name of expense mgmt. Which in turn affects the local economy. "

To:sam wrote on Feb 15, 2008 8:11 AM:

" good luck, I take it you never go to DOWNtown abnormal, with all the new buildings going up. Must be blind. "

To: How about this thought wrote on Feb 14, 2008 10:06 PM:

" Well how about this..Why can't you people actually put your trash in garbage bags? Wow, I know that was hard to think of on your own. Do you know how many nasty people just throw their trash in their yard or in a garbage can without the bag? Do you realize how back-breaking it is? Do you even care? Probably not because you are too busy sitting on your comfy chair at state farm wearing your designer yuppie jeans. "

To My question wrote on Feb 14, 2008 10:03 PM:

" How hard was it for you to bend over, pick it up and put it in a garbage bag? Make a compost pile in your back yard and put it in there. It is good for the environment. "

way wrote on Feb 14, 2008 6:32 PM:

" too much "

CITY WORKER wrote on Feb 14, 2008 6:31 PM:

" Let me just say that judy stearns has NO clue as to what goes on. She votes against everything just to get attention. She says one thing...and then totally does another. All I have to say is to start getting your $100 bills ready all those who live in her area...cause she is going to start fining people who set bulk waste before monday night. Ha...come on money for the "judy done". Ever notice that the ladies named judy do NO good for the city?! "

What does... wrote on Feb 14, 2008 10:52 AM:

" Karen Schmidt know about people "lollygagging around"? First, what a stupid comment from someone who is supposed to help us out of the mess that she and her peers have created. The term has no meaning that I am aware of. Second, I believe she works in Champaign so when exactly does she have time to drive around town and see what the city employees are doing? She needs to be replaced. "

Anchor wrote on Feb 13, 2008 3:56 PM:

" Seems like a lot to pay for a glorified used car lot. "

sam wrote on Feb 13, 2008 6:27 AM:

" glad I live in Normal now, my money will go a little further! "

Truth wrote on Feb 13, 2008 5:24 AM:

" Where do you people think the money for all this stuff you ask for, demand, and whine about comes from? Someone has to foot the bill for all the social feel good programs. Someone has to pay the tab for the all hand outs. Someone has to up the money to persuade businesses people whine about to set up in the 'city'. Do you think the city has some sort of money tree, or can just print more money? The politicians have to pander to the residents to get the votes, because that is all the people seem to remember. It is the residents that have brought this upon themselves by acting like spoiled children. "

Lauren wrote on Feb 12, 2008 7:08 PM:

" Here's a thought...Maybe the Coliseum wouldn't be such a money pit if they brought in some for real acts? This is a college town...meaning there are alot of people in their 20's, and frankly we really don't care about REO Speedwagon or what have you...Try booking some acts like Tool, or Avenged Sevenfold, just as examples...appeal to the demographic...Now we get to pay even more for everything when we can barely afford anything in this town as it is... "

westsider wrote on Feb 12, 2008 8:24 AM:

" not to mention big oil co.heartland,unit 5 , now the judy dome. you people cry about everything but do nothing and these people know that. so as they keep taking your money work a little harder and longer to make ends meet. it would shook me if a group of cry babies would get together and fight this but we all know your to busy working paying for those new cars and big houses = more taxes .one other thing they all know is that all the crying will go away in a few weeks and things will be back to normal then they will pat each other on the back and like big oil, heartland and unit 5 will say ,SEE I TOLD YOU IT WOULD WORK. "

My Question Is... wrote on Feb 12, 2008 6:55 AM:

" How much more is it going to cost me to have the city pick up only the garbage they feel like picking up? I still have a pumpkin from Oct.31 sitting on the curb that must big really heavy for them to pick up because they picked up the other three pumpkins, but this one still remains and if they drop something might as well forget about it getting in the truck until next week, because it is just to much to bend over and pick it up. "

NOW, wrote on Feb 12, 2008 12:25 AM:

" arent we all just so glad our votes were ignored to begin with? about where our ideas are right now, also. Ignored. what a wonderful government we have here! "

to:go down oakland wrote on Feb 11, 2008 10:37 PM:

" have you ever done what those garbage men do??? i didn`t think so. its looks real easy until you have to do it. its very hard on the body. it hurts the back,the knees the feet. one man doing that job you called easy almost died a few years ago after being hit in the head with a 2 x 4. its also one of the most dangerous jobs you can do. next time you open your mouth.........know what your talking about. you must be one of those guys that has never done a real job. "

to @@@@ wrote on Feb 11, 2008 9:42 PM:

" Sure, let's under-train firefighters, and not decrease response time in certain areas of the city. That will go over really well.... You can't just remove that sort of funding. "

c.a.t.s. wrote on Feb 11, 2008 9:08 PM:

" its offical theres a NEW JUDY TAX. TOM YOUR A FREAKIN LIAR!!!!!!! just to pay for the money pit... what a place i live in... "

@@@@ wrote on Feb 11, 2008 8:00 PM:

" Does the Fire Department really need a new station way out on six points rd.???? And do they also need a new training tower ??????? This sounds like this can save the city money?????? "

IDEA wrote on Feb 11, 2008 7:59 PM:

" Lets rent out the judy dome to the county for extra jail space???????? And how about making the convicts do street repair??????? And lets start making the heads of the departments go back and really do the jobs they are hired to do????? "

To To Relieved wrote on Feb 11, 2008 7:20 PM:

" I echo your comments about Stockton being in the know about RIMCO. Last I checked, both Stockton and Hamilton and perhaps at least one alderperson were on the CIRPA and RIMCO boards. Judy was on it when she was mayor. Take a look at the city meeting minutes posted on the city website. Conflict of interest perhaps? I hear that the self proclaimed CEO (pd in excess of $100K, including lodging when he's in town) lives in Indy and that is where the funds are held. Not even at a local bank. Good luck getting at the financials. They are supposedly not for profit according to their website, but have been paid over $3M per year for quite some time according to the CIRPA line in the financials. "

How about this thought? wrote on Feb 11, 2008 6:10 PM:

" If we are paying the garbage men for a full days work, why don't we get it? I realize they usually start early, but they also get to leave early once they are done with routes. Why don't we find other things for them to do until they complete the number of hours that they are supposed to work? I.E. if they are done in 5 hours but are getting paid for 8 hours, why can't they find something to do for those 3 hours that we are paying them? Our maybe if they took a little more time they could put the garbage cans make a little more orderly instead of tossing them and breaking them? Or maybe they could help out with other odd jobs? Just a thought. And another thing: why is it that Hamilton has no idea on costs, estimates on savings, etc? Is that NOT his job? Does he not have proposals to the council members, mayor, etc? Come on. "

Where was? wrote on Feb 11, 2008 6:01 PM:

" Where was the Pantagraph when the 1.7M dispatch cluster was going down? oh thats right... they were report errr.. I mean slanting against Metcom and holding the dispatchers responsible... not the petty bickering between agencies... So... which way are you slanting today? "

What about HR? wrote on Feb 11, 2008 5:21 PM:

" What about Emily Bell making 115,000 a year. She is 'giving' lessons on wrapping presents and making bows. Isn't she generous to 'give' using our taxpayers $? What about the 2nd attorney that they hired for the City of Blm? Was there an ad in the paper or did he get hired because they were friends? Is the tax assessor the same with the City employees houses as every one elses? Do they pay their fair share? How many potholes are on their streets? Kudos to the Pantagraph for writing all of this in the paper! I look forward to hearing responses from the 'elite' City employees! Since when does the Police need a Ford Expedition? 50,000 plus terrible on gas mileage. The City 'elite' are so used to their cushy jobs that they couldn't live on the median wage in BN. Compare their wages to other jobs in McLean, DeWitt and Tazewell counties. "

to TC & Coliseum wrote on Feb 11, 2008 5:20 PM:

" I agree with you both. The current mayor & council inherited the expenses from the prior mayor & council. Lets give them credit for being willing to deal with the problems. After all it is not like they are being paid huge salaries to put up with all the abuse they receive from us the bloggers. Where was the Pantagraph when all the spending in the millions was being done? But they look now at a $26 expense? Get a life and let the people do the work needed to solve the problem. "

AJ wrote on Feb 11, 2008 5:06 PM:

" I think we should explore what is involved in defaulting on the JudyDome bonds. If they were sold as special project bonds and not general revenue bonds, we may be able to pull it off with minimal impact to the city's financial ratings. Send some jinglemail to the investors and be done with it. See to it that Hamilton, et al, are terminated and hopefully their professional liability insurance is paid up when the investors come with lawsuit. Clearly there were misrepresentations in the origination process. "

The Rooster wrote on Feb 11, 2008 4:50 PM:

" comes home to roost. What do you expect people. Employers keep moving jobs offshore and manufacturing jobs too. Those left employed have to pick up the tab. Trust me this isn't the only community facing these problems. Thank the politician's you elected. Only when you get your head on straight and quit voting for special interest are we ever going to get this country back on track. Jobs and diversity of jobs keep communities growing and in the black. Let's hear the hurray for the B/N government leaders for giving us low paying service jobs in our local economy. "

Your little town is not NYC! wrote on Feb 11, 2008 4:20 PM:

" Were I live is irrelevant, because I never claimed where I lived to be just like NYC. Bloomington 67,900 vs NYC 18,876,457. Smoking Nazi's points were that if a town like NYC can impose a ban, then so can Blooming. The two are so very similar, right? I am sorry but banking on SF's employees to buy tickets to the dome was a terrible decision. You have nothing to offer anyone outside your village, all the while you were pretending that your corn town was like NYC. Don't get mad at me, its just time for you to pay up. I have some beach front property for sale over at lake Bloomington, Its just like living in Florida... really it is... Really... "

Pay more elsewhere wrote on Feb 11, 2008 4:17 PM:

" I have done buisness with companies that are located in other cities and states, taxes tend to run between 8 and 8.25%. It seems at 7.75 we are getting a bit of a bargin. "

CS wrote on Feb 11, 2008 3:42 PM:

" Everyone ignores the obvious. You can't keep increasing the taxes/fees on the society. Eventually, you will get to a level that is unsustainable. A government can't operate if they have no tax revenue. A society won't exist if taxes/fees are 100% of what we make. There is a sustainable point in the middle somewhere. We need to find that and KEEP IT THERE. If that means we don't all get what we want, then too bad. Maybe the city should have had a little forsight and saved some of that money from the good times to use in the bad times. It seems every public organization (cities, states, school districts, etc) feel like they have to spend every thing they get every year. For some reason, they feel like it is o.k. to spend more when they get more, but they don't seem to feel like it is o.k. to spend less when they get less. "

CS wrote on Feb 11, 2008 3:34 PM:

" Everyone ignores the obvious. You can't keep increasing the taxes/fees on the society. Eventually, you will get to a level that is unsustainable. A government can't operate if they have no tax revenue. A society won't exist if taxes/fees are 100% of what we make. There is a sustainable point in the middle somewhere. We need to find that and KEEP IT THERE. If that means we don't all get what we want, then too bad. Maybe the city should have had a little forsight and saved some of that money from the good times to use in the bad times. It seems every public organization (cities, states, school districts, etc) feel like they have to spend every thing they get every year. For some reason, they feel like it is o.k. to spend more when they get more, but they don't seem to feel like it is o.k. to spend less when they get less. "

Solutions anyone? wrote on Feb 11, 2008 3:33 PM:

" I read this postings and am curious what solutions the posters have to resolve the budget problems. If you fire Hamilton, he will be replaced with someone else with a comparable salary. If you sell the Arena, it may not cover the total bond debt, therefore, we will still be paying for it. You can continue to crucify the Current Council for the Past Council's mistakes. I would like the City and/or the Pantagraph to do a poll to determine what types of Services the Citizens of Bloomington would like to see cut and post the results both online and in the newspaper. Perhaps it is time we as Citizens stopped being a part of the problem and provided some viable solutions. "

Farkel wrote on Feb 11, 2008 3:22 PM:

" This story and the one about the mom renting toys gave me an idea: The city could rent some of its toys. I know I'd pay $20 to drive the Zamboni sometime, and who among us wouldn't pay $10 to turn on the siren and get green lights, all the way to Krispy Kreme! "

Just an idea wrote on Feb 11, 2008 3:20 PM:

" I think they should tax the heck out of the new developments, they are the one's that are draining the water supply, using services but not spending their money in town. They buy houses they really can't afford, complain when there's a budget shortfall and yet do nothing to help area businesses. Also, I haven't really looked lately but aren't most of those developers NOT from B'ton/Nrm? I also think that the PD could generate more money by actually giving tickets to some of the grevious lawbreakers behind the wheels. I confess to being a little lead footed sometimes but when everyone is leadfooted and likes to run lights???? "

RE: Everyone is harmed wrote on Feb 11, 2008 2:43 PM:

" You have hit the nail on the head. The people of B-N are pretentious without bounds. They feel they are 'city' dwellers, thus demand everything real cities have. Politicians, to get elected, have to pander to this mentality. The result is an expanding town without the revenue to support it. The majority of residents of B-N do not realize that it is a service town, serving the university and the surrounding farming communities. It is not a center of culture and development. It is a shopping center for those marginally above the poverty line. Those with real money go to real cities to spend it. "

Everyone is harmed wrote on Feb 11, 2008 2:19 PM:

" Has anyone looked at what indirect consequences are. Braden Auditorium has been harmed by the BCPA, we have an arena built just for basketball at ISU, but the Coliseum has to buy a Basketball court to get the Globetrotters in harming ISU.

At some point Braden will have to be shuttered, BCPA will shut down, tha Coliseum will never make money and ISU will have fees imposed on its students forever to pay for their Arena.

We are overbuilt in BN and competing against ourselves, not very smart from a quality of living standpoint. "

responsible wrote on Feb 11, 2008 2:14 PM:

" I still say charge us what it costs. If our garbage collection costs $20 a month, I'll gladly pay it. I don't see why those of us who can, don't. An exemption for those on fixed incomes, and those with hardships, is not out of the question, but it would certainly offset some of the costs. If the water costs $5/household to provide, charge us that. In the grand scheme of things, for most budgets, that just means one less night out at McDonald's a month. For those who would have trouble, make exceptions. "

Thanks Pantagraph wrote on Feb 11, 2008 1:54 PM:

" For once the Pantagraph is giving us some facts. Thanks and keep it up. How about a comparison of salaries of Bloomington City Officials and city officials in other central IL towns? And some investigation of RIMCO? Also lack of police on the streets? And how about those crime statistics that are unavailable by Ward? I can't tell you how many times at Council meetings when it comes to finances you hear the words "I don't have those number with me but I will be glad to get them for you." Help us Pantagraph. We can't get honesty without this type of investigative reporting. "

SOOOOO glad.... wrote on Feb 11, 2008 1:52 PM:

" I moved from Bloomington!! "

This is crazy! wrote on Feb 11, 2008 1:42 PM:

" About ten years ago I remember being at a city council work session with one of the topics automated garbage. From what I can remember Tom Hamilton was in favor of automated garbage but the numbers didn't compare with the current garbage collection method,the city council rejected this idea. The Pantagraph did a story on automated garbage, where is the data? One of the big problems was the garbage crews also salt/plow snow, pickup bulky waste,leaf pickup ect. There crews are not only used for garbage pickup. If the job force is reduced and with the city growth who will pickup my bulky waste and salt my street ? The cost for automated garbage ie containers trucks and maintanece was very high. Please take a close study of automated garbage before the city goes further in debt. "

a reader wrote on Feb 11, 2008 1:34 PM:

" wake up people.... our leaders, on our behalf, knowing what is better for us than we do... got us the coliseum... the least we can do is gladly and without griping, pay more in taxes and fees for it... to show our appreciation for what they have done "

Perfect wrote on Feb 11, 2008 1:24 PM:

" Let's tax the booze we need to drink to forget we live in this utopia, and increase the pressure that the lower class is already feeling from increased costs in food, gas, etc.

How bad does it have to get before the people say 'enough'. I think that guy in Missouri had the right answer... "

you could double your wrote on Feb 11, 2008 1:21 PM:

" new garbage fee and still be substantially cheaper than I pay for bi-monthly pick up "

To Garbage wrote on Feb 11, 2008 1:17 PM:

" I hear ya!!! People, you have to attend the council meeting tonight! Make your voices heard, because it doesn't count on the Paragraph forum. Bring the fees in line with the costs of the service. Why subsidize a crazy curbside pickup service! WE have had deluxe service for nothing! Either raise the fee or cut the service! "

LeRoy Resident wrote on Feb 11, 2008 1:13 PM:

" And to think, many believe LeRoy has problems. As we can all see, these problems exist everywhere - small cities, medium sized cites, and large ones - and it even goes further to the state level and to the federal level. None of the decisions are easy regardless of level. I don't envy anyone of the people who do have to make the decisions and take on the wrath the public conjures up for each decision. Hopefully each decision is the right one, but we all know mistakes are made. Also, hopefully the decisions are well thought out and have good info to base the decision on. In many cases, the decisions are made to help a community to grow and become a better place to live ... and they do encounter bumps in the road - it is part of the growing process. Voice your opinions, but do respect the one's who do make the final decision. We all need to work together to make things better and keep your mind open to change. "

ToYour little town is not NYC! wrote on Feb 11, 2008 12:51 PM:

" So where do you live then? I doubt anywhere like NYC. No I don't think the people of Bloomington/Normal feel they live in a major hub city. I do business in BN and live in city just outside of chicago. I do know the population size rivals most subburbs and like most cities over 100,000 in downstate Illinois, they depend on themselves, not like the cities up here with Chicago as the close neighbor, thus they need to have the arenas, theaters, arts, etc. Wake up a get a clue, lots of cities that are metropolitan operate like this. "

To Garbage wrote on Feb 11, 2008 12:51 PM:

" I hear ya!!! People, you have to attend the council meeting tonight! Make your voices heard, because it doesn't count on the Paragraph forum. Bring the fees in line with the costs of the service. Why subsidize a crazy curbside pickup service! WE have had deluxe service for nothing! Either raise the fee or cut the service! "

Average Bloomington Resident wrote on Feb 11, 2008 12:49 PM:

" .25% sales tax increase = holocaust. "

Reality Check responds wrote on Feb 11, 2008 12:37 PM:

" to the person who responded to me... you have a point. I had not considered the difference in wages between Chi and BN. I should have thought of that. In my case, I am fortunate that I will make the same no matter where in IL I choose to live. Your point is valid and I appreciate your comments. "

country boy wrote on Feb 11, 2008 12:04 PM:

" ah, life in the country is grand! "

To: To Relieved wrote on Feb 11, 2008 11:54 AM:

" Quite Right that Mr. Stockton should wake up. Being an insurance man himself, a reasonable person might suspect that the Mayor would have quite an interest in this RIMCO organization. As Mayor, what are his obligations/opportunities to oversee this investment on the City's behalf? Or is he ashamed of RIMCO and their tactics and that leads to looking the other way? "

Garbage..... wrote on Feb 11, 2008 11:51 AM:

" It is all a bunch of garbage that they are trying to feed everyone. Monthly charges of $7 for garbage and $3 for sewer?? What a bargain for homeowners in Bloomington! Get a quote for private garbage collection and you would see that paying $15 a month would be a steal. And not raising the sewer fee for over 10 years?? That is just insane. All fees should be looked at every 5 years at the most to see if they are inline with the costs. "

To Go Down Oakland wrote on Feb 11, 2008 11:46 AM:

" The people working on Oakland, East of Gridley are not City Employees. Perhaps we should get our facts straight lest we post erroneous information. "

city budget should be like home budget wrote on Feb 11, 2008 11:40 AM:

" when money runs short, you cut back spending...but of course they are spending our money "

RE:re: Yes Raise Ticket Prices wrote on Feb 11, 2008 11:36 AM:

" get a lot of tickets do you? I agree with the outragous "squad" cars they have. What is even more funny is little towns like El Paso having them. The police chief there isn't even a commissioned officer, never went to PTI. He was grandfathered in and believe me it shows. What every town.city Government needs to do is provide police and fire. Let private citizens worry abot their entertainment. Blm and NMl are corn country no matter how some want to deny it. The best thing SF can do is get out of ton and go where they will be appreciated.All I can saw about folks in BLM. is it sucks to be you now pay up. "

OGS Many of Us wrote on Feb 11, 2008 11:34 AM:

" Have better ideas, but fail as they may,,,the government won't listen to us! They love the power too much! "

Hey Twin cities, wrote on Feb 11, 2008 11:32 AM:

" why don't you start the ball rolling on another ban that would cost you even more tax revenue? Enjoy and reap what you sow!!!!!!!!!! "

re Your little town is not NYC! wrote on Feb 11, 2008 11:31 AM:

" I agree. Way too many in this town try to 'pretend' they are in a city. It doesn't work. That why no down town business, crazy housing cost, they keep building more over priced condo's down town when they can fill the ones already there. Chain this and Chain that. People need to wake up and grow up. "

Darn Judy Tax wrote on Feb 11, 2008 11:30 AM:

" Thats what it is ......
Stupid coliseum............................................. "

Your little town is not NYC! wrote on Feb 11, 2008 11:14 AM:

" One of the smoking Nazi's arguments for the smoking ban was: They banned smoking in NYC and NYC is doing just fine, so why not Bloomington. I don't want to get into the debate if the ban was good or bad for NYC, but what I want to point out that these people believe that the population of a few million is comparable to thousands. Its not! And now they are going to pay for it! Bloomington is a little farm village that grew because of an insurance company in the middle of some corn field. There is no tourism. There is no vacationing. There is no reason for anyone to stop and spend their money. A coliseum and arts center in the middle of nowhere??? Great idea! Heck, they have them in NYC... I am sure the they will do fabulous in cornfield town. The only people left to pay the bills are the residents!!! Have fun! "

Taxed to death wrote on Feb 11, 2008 11:05 AM:

" I haven't read all the messages on this board but I get the message that we are all at our wits ends paying, paying and paying. I have reached a point between federal, state, social security, property, gas and sales taxes I can't pay anymore. How does a little person like me say "stop it"? I hope the city council is reading this blog if not someone should sent it to all of them. "

DUN TA DA!!!!! wrote on Feb 11, 2008 11:05 AM:

" I LIKE TUHTLES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! "

to Bloomington resident wrote on Feb 11, 2008 11:04 AM:

" You are wrong. There are private companies that give their employess these types of perks. Verizon for instance gives their employees vehicles to take home and drive. Then again maybe that's why our phone bills are so high. Maybe I'll switch to another company. "

BHS 2 State '08 ! wrote on Feb 11, 2008 11:03 AM:

" Fire Tom Hamilton ! Save some money ! "

Jeff wrote on Feb 11, 2008 10:58 AM:

" If they would just ticket SFers for driving everywhere in the left lane and under the speed limit we would have plenty of money to cover the BPD and BFD. "

re: Yes Raise Ticket Prices wrote on Feb 11, 2008 10:40 AM:

" I’m ok with them cutting some of the police force. They act more like Roman tax collectors than they do law enforcement anyways. I don’t know why every time I drive in this town I see some cop driving a $75,000 SUV ‘squad car.’ They might as well put some chrome rims and hydraulics on those things. Or maybe we shouldn’t have paid a cop who’s sitting in jail on rape charges for over a year. "

ask the bradys wrote on Feb 11, 2008 10:28 AM:

" about the state mandated pension increases, particularly as a result of the fire lobby in Springfield. They supported it, we pay for it. "

Meh to hometown boy wrote on Feb 11, 2008 10:27 AM:

" Yeah, I left a lot of the ballot blank. I'm not voting for a Republican, even if they are the only choice. "

state of IL wrote on Feb 11, 2008 10:24 AM:

" The state of Il did the same thing. You get incompetent people in office and now we pay the price thru 400 new ways for them to extract money from the towns people. I say we shave salaries from all the city officials. "

To: Reality Check wrote on Feb 11, 2008 10:21 AM:

" On average, workers in Bloomington make approx. $10 less per hour than people in the Chicago area. I know in my line of work I could be making $20-30 more in Chi-town, but the cost of living index is higher in Chicago, so it averages out to be close to the same. Everyone who is calling us whinners doesn't live here and make our wages. If they did, they would understand. We have a crumbling infrastructure and many homes and jobs are already on the chopping block. We really only have 5-6 major employers in this town and nearly all of them have cut jobs in the last several years. So yes, we have a right to complain. My property tax was over 5% of my take home income for last year. Prices for taxes is an irrelavent measure of cost, percent of income is a fairer comparison. "

U hrd it hre wrote on Feb 11, 2008 10:16 AM:

" Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely "

to bloomington wrote on Feb 11, 2008 10:12 AM:

" The sales tax is 8 percent in Peoria, still less than the proposed 7.75 percent "

..::mizer::.. wrote on Feb 11, 2008 10:08 AM:

" I no longer live in Bloomington, and refuse to buy groceries there as well. I save around 30 dollars a week shopping in Lincoln. The prices and taxes are lower. This town/state is a crooked joke. "

If sale tax revenue has flat-lined wrote on Feb 11, 2008 10:06 AM:

" What do you think raising it will do? Sales tax is collected on people's ability to purchase things and it we have a "flat-lined sales tax", that means people are not purchasing things like they have in the past. Raising the tax will simply increase that trend. "

Truth wrote on Feb 11, 2008 10:02 AM:

" The politicians have went out of their way to give the populace what the populace wants. More parks, more services, better road, more of this and better of that. The problem is that is populace thinks government has some money tree somewhere that can be harvested all the time. Not to mention the majority of the populace just wants things without thinking about it. The result is a bloated government, decreased taxes, increased overhead, and a financial gap. It is the ignorance of the populace that causes things like this, and I for one hope the populace gets taxed like their is no tomorrow. It is the only way they will learn. "

Yes Raise Ticket Prices wrote on Feb 11, 2008 10:00 AM:

" to both the Collesium and the Center of Performing Arts, that way when I use it, I pay for it. Raise the price of garbage fees, I use it, so I'll pay for it. Don't cut police, fire or critical infrastructure. "

FYI to:I personally stand to benefit wrote on Feb 11, 2008 9:54 AM:

" There is no tax benefit to getting married unless one person isn't working. Married deductions are the same a singles...times 2 for the 2 people being taxed on 1 form. Benefits only come when you have children. "

To Who Cares wrote on Feb 11, 2008 9:53 AM:

" The council and mayor do not have a car to take home but I hear that they get a new lap top when they go on the council. If they do hope they don't these to by on Ebay when they raise our taxes. "

hometown boy wrote on Feb 11, 2008 9:49 AM:

" Boy I can't believe it last week during the primaries, their was only one party that was represented on every office on the ballot,[REPUBLICANS] You folks would vote for Attilla the Hun, as long ashe was republican and now the party of fiscal responsibility wants to keep raising taxes well all I can sat is. hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahhaha!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! "

Tax Increases wrote on Feb 11, 2008 9:49 AM:

" I would agree with some of these tax increases if all of the city department heads including the city manageer were fired to give us a fresh start. All of these dipartment heads are hand picked by the good old boys at city hall and are making too much for what we get from them in respect to managing our tax dollars. "

TO: SHOP ELSEWHERE wrote on Feb 11, 2008 9:47 AM:

" Let's see, you will drive to shop in Pontiac because of a .25% increase in sales tax? Do you even know how much a year that is for you? Here's an example, if you SPEND $20,000 it would be $50 more in tax. You probably make a little more than $20,000 so I know you don't spend that much wich in turn you will spend more on gas than the increase will create for you. RUN FOR OFFICE know it all! "

Firefighter pensions wrote on Feb 11, 2008 9:47 AM:

" I'm uncertain what the writer was referring to when he mentioned "Unexpected costs for the police and fire pensions." The city deferred paying their portion of the pensions for about 10 years and knew that the deferment was ending and they would need to come up with the amount they owed. The firefighters all paid their portion every pay period; the city opted to use money that should have been put into the pension fund for other things. Employees in almost any organization have some form of retirement fund that is jointly funded by employer and employee. Would you want your employer to defer paying into your account for 10 years? "

bloomington wrote on Feb 11, 2008 9:12 AM:

" i do not live in bloomington but yet iam still paying for the judy dome every time i go to that town i feel it isnt fair that the sales tax in that town run by crooks get by with this i will o longer be shoping in bloomington because of there strong arm tactics looks like peoria has won out here east peoria wal mart here i come
"

Kill the Pensions wrote on Feb 11, 2008 9:09 AM:

" Pensions are a thing of socialist governments. As a Generation Xer I have been told that retirement is not a gurantee. Why are we guranteeing a fixed income to people, even when the economy can't support it. Pensions of Government will kill the economy over the next 20 years if something isn't done soon with all the boomers retiring. The economy isn't strong enough to support these pensions. Convert the pensions to Cash Value and let the people manage their own money. I would like to see some of these people on pensions live off on a 401k like they expect me to when I retire. "

Reality Check wrote on Feb 11, 2008 9:08 AM:

" I currently live in Chicago metro, but I cover a territory that includes the northern half of Illinois. As a result, I will soon be moving and can live anywhere from I-72 north. I could live in CU, Peoria, BN, Springfield, Kankakee, Galesburg, Rockford, Quad Cities, or stay here in Chicagoland. You folks can grumble all you want about BN, but I've spent time all over central and northern IL and BN is as good as it gets. Your housing prices are very reasonable (compared to the Chicago suburbs), your crime rates are not bad, and the location is convenient to IND-ORD-STL. That's why I'll most likely move to BN and I don't think I'll regret it. To read the comments posted on pantagraph.com, you'd think BN was worse than Moscow under the Communists. To this outsider, BN looks pretty good. "

more burden on the consumer wrote on Feb 11, 2008 9:02 AM:

" is coming. I really don't think government uses long range planning - and it has been told that time and again. "Let the consumer beware" you and me - with the economic downturn expected to snowball into a recession and not ease up for 2 to 3 years according to many analysts, the burden of increased property taxes for newer and better (not essential) school buildings; the burden of increasing city fees and taxes; and the approaching burden of increased state fees for license plates and other state taxes; and who knows what is looming to bail out the failing federal structure - will surely mean a bit more hardship on you and me. Problem is - with higher gas prices and on other commodities - we have tightened our belts as average consumers - now the government wants to pay for it's problems (some mistakes) by cutting another notch in our belt and choking us off - and therefore spend less and make it even worse down the road. "

Bloomington Sucks wrote on Feb 11, 2008 8:35 AM:

" Has anyone questioned where the city of Bloomington has put the money that Joe's Towing gave them for their contract? Maybe people should start questioning what the city does with all the money they pull in each day for the cars they impound or tow. Does the city realize that there are some people who know just how much they make off of this every day? It's not a small amount. Ask around and I am sure people who have had to get their cars released from Joe's can tell you just how much they have to fork out to the city before they get into their pockets to pay Joe's. Makes you think..... "

Tea Party anyone? wrote on Feb 11, 2008 8:30 AM:

" People need to take a look and see just exactly how much of what they earn is going towards taxes. Our founding fathers are rolling over in their graves! 45-50% of what you earn goes to the government now. "

Meh wrote on Feb 11, 2008 8:27 AM:

" At these tax rates and assuming that one doesn't have a super-stable, high paying job like at SF, it would be better to move to Will County. Their taxes and Real Estate costs aren't any higher and you'd have access to the Chicago job market, public transportation, and entertainment besides Clifford and washed up rock bands.

Part of the reason I moved here was because my dollar went further and I'd have money for the occasional trip to Chicago for entertainment. That's no longer the case. "

To Relieved wrote on Feb 11, 2008 8:24 AM:

" You are so very right on. If the amount of premiums paid to CIRPA/RIMCO were reviewed or audited (last count, wasn't the city paying in the ballpark of $3M for about $1M in actual insurance coverage, with additional funds parked in investments), I'm sure a reasonable person could pierce the veil of a city slush fund. Plus, most of that money is carted off to Indy...Stockton, wake up! "

Contact wrote on Feb 11, 2008 8:21 AM:

" Your ward Alderman tell them No to tax, fee increases of any kind. Combine resources. Close down what you cannot pay for. Do not cut services. Put Emergency dispatch, back with Metcom. Close A.Center. Sell off the dozens of small parks,that no one goes to, and not pay for mowing etc. Stop the building at Miller Park. Start managing resources. Admit making mistakes in adding what you cannot pay for. When the pocket is empty, don't ask for more money. "

seesr wrote on Feb 11, 2008 8:10 AM:

" Talking of cutting services. Why not just have the overcrowded jail residents doing some of the work instead. I am sure they would appreciate the fresh air and the possibilty of getting hurt. That way they could sue the county to pay for their own legal fees. "

the looming train wreck wrote on Feb 11, 2008 8:06 AM:

" The City of Bloomington, at least, is losing its appeal as a place to live. We may indeed be blaming the Coliseum too much for all these shortfalls (pratfalls), but what bothers me is the escalating nature of the crisis and the apparent inability of the City Council to manage it. Who do we have who is even close to an expert in city finances? Aren't most of these folks ordinary business people and residents? What are their qualifications for handling this mess? "

Bloomington Resident wrote on Feb 11, 2008 7:45 AM:

" No private business would ever be run like this. A real business with 400 employees could never afford the salaries these people are paid, the take home cars and free insurance and benefits. A real business wouldn't build things it couldn't afford, nor take the risks of unknown revenues. Government does so because it has unlimited power to raise revenues - more taxes whenever they want. Start running the city like a business and we won't be in this kind of mess. "

Go down on Oakland~~ wrote on Feb 11, 2008 7:40 AM:

" and watch the workers. Ha Ha I just watched 4 workers, each one going and getting 1 pylon each to put in a stack. Ha Ha Four to do the work of one. Ha ha I can't believe it took 4 people to get about 8 pylons. Now this is a waste of money. Go ahead Bloomington raise those taxes, we have to pay these 3 workers to drag pylons. Ha Ha Just think how much money they are getting to drag them too. Garbage trucks could get by with two workers also. One to drive, one to put the garbage on the truck. Or would that be too hard on their precious bodies? It's called work. "

WHO CARES- wrote on Feb 11, 2008 7:34 AM:

" Bloomington has always been a city that had to have the best of everything. Their police officers and firefighters the highest paid people around. I wish they could get paid on what they really do because they would be paid alot less. Bloomington's better than thou attitudes have finally caught up with them. They get what they deserve. Wasting money and having the best equipment and the best of everything doesn't equal higher quality service from employees. You have a police chief who makes $125.000 who deserves no more than $60.000. I don't feel sorry for Bloomington for their problems. I'm supprised the mayor and council don't have take home cars yet. "

Re:nerd wrote on Feb 11, 2008 7:27 AM:

" you crack me up..... "

I personally stand to benefit wrote on Feb 11, 2008 7:25 AM:

" from same-sex marriage when it passes someday. If it doesn't pass then my second preference is to be charged a reduced rate of tax, and be given a retroactive rebate. If I receive a second-class set of rights & freedoms and am denied the same as YOU, then it stands to reason that I should pay less for my dumbed-down freedom benefits. We could call it the "Back-of-the-Bus Tax-Rate". Give me equality or reduce my tax rate. "

To: To: annex into Normal wrote on Feb 11, 2008 7:21 AM:

" Where do you get your "facts"? AS a Bloomington resident, it appears to me that Normal is taking a much more financially responsible route to its Uptown redevelopment. The 2 hotels to which you are referring....they won't own. And as far as the old Holiday Inn is concerned, would you rather have an abandoned, deteriorating hotel at your north entrance. And Normal is not facing a $3 million budget shortfall forcing a 1/4% sales tax increase. Also, Normal's services, including snow removal, are clearly more effective than are ours in Bloomington. You should quite criticizing your community and feel fortunate that you don't live in Blm. "

Has anyone~~ wrote on Feb 11, 2008 6:59 AM:

" looked while traveling our fair city, at the city workers? One man will be working diligently and the other 4-5 are just standing around. Seriously if it only takes one man to do the job, what are the rest for? Oh yeah, to spend our money!!! How about all the pot holes in this town, getting hard to dodge them anymore. Mr.Hamilton you are an insult to this town!! I don't know who hired you, but they should fire you!! Did your salary go down to help compensate? Did any salary go down? That gulping gut swallowing monstrosity downtown should be sold and that would be money saved. This town has went to hell in a handbasket!! If it weren't for my kids I'd be out of here!!! This budget is far higher than any large city around. Where is the industry to help compensate for the extra? Oh that's right your buddy Bush sent them overseas to help them out. Even my grandkids know how to save money, which is more than you know how!! "

Woodford Pundit wrote on Feb 11, 2008 6:49 AM:

" The "elephant" in every Illinos municipality is the mandated pension funding levels. Nobody wants to talk about it. It has come about because of the lobbies in Springfield and, of course, Springfield won't fund the mandates. These mandates need to go away and localities need to take back the control of police, fire, etc. pensions. "

Still fed up! wrote on Feb 11, 2008 6:38 AM:

" This is all well and good...but Tom Hamilton still has not cut any waste at all from the budget. And then there is RIMCO. I know a Bloominton police officer on workmans comp and guess what? He does not get a check from RIMCO; but from the city of Bloomington...let me guess, RIMCO disburses an amount of money in his name to another account...that ends up in someone elses hands? "

economics 101 wrote on Feb 11, 2008 5:52 AM:

" Okay, Einsteins..... how about letting the free market work on its own and put into place a wage/salary freeze. yeah, some of you may think that low morale will occur and employees will do less work/less quality work if a freeze were put inot place but then there are thousands around here who would do a better job for less. those employees with low morale should get fired and the city should hire committed workers. the county should do the same. look around you. the least productive people are those who have a secure job with government. "

Suggestion Box wrote on Feb 11, 2008 5:17 AM:

" Maybe we should charge ten cents for every person who uses the toilet at the Law and Justice center. "

FltBrokeII wrote on Feb 11, 2008 5:07 AM:

" The New Mayor is trying to drive people away from Bloomington also. Doesn't anybody in Bloomington realize that the resturant taxes in Bloomington are higher than Chicagos now. Now the new Mayor wants raise utilities (such as water and garbage) also the city tax. But the City of Bloomington can always find money to buy condemned properties. "

007 wrote on Feb 11, 2008 4:13 AM:

" Legalize marijuana and tax the heck outta it and I bet the city could build an new Judy Dome a year with the tax generated from the sales of it. But what the heck continue to strugle to pay for everything raise the taxxes way higher than where they are as you are in this pittifull state and deserve no less for voting for the idiots whom are in charge of this ignorant city....
I know of several companys whom were paying taxes that the city forced out of business and guess what those company's were never replaced by new businesses and equates to a loss of tax revenue and is of no surprise to me as I moved five years ago to get away from this stuck up no good for nothing town.....
Oh dont forget the non-smokers can pay for it as they will be there to support your companys that are now suffering due to the smoking ban.... tax non-smokers for the loss of tax dollars thats it..... "

OGS 40 Years wrote on Feb 11, 2008 3:22 AM:

" Retailers have reported that January 2008 was the slowest in 40 years. Wal-Mart reports that people are using their gift cards to buy food rather than the usual post holiday buying of ipods and dvds and such. No matter what these bozos do to raise fees and taxes now, it isn't gonna help much because the economic roller coaster ride is just about to take off folks,,,so sit down, buckle up, and hold on! Hiliary, Obama, McCain, or Huckleberry are not the answer to our national woes which we are/will feel here at home. Get out of the war (Ron Paul foreign policy), and a sound monetary policy (Ron Paul) is our only hope of 2008 Presidential candidates to lead us away from the status quo of bankrupting America. Repeal NAFTA and give us back our jobs NOW, before it is too late! "

geez... wrote on Feb 11, 2008 2:50 AM:

" just bought 3 acres out in the country and am going to give the keys to my house back to the bank. bloomington sucks! "

thanks to... wrote on Feb 11, 2008 1:36 AM:

" Bloominton and Unit 5 for spending MY hard earned money for me....Jerks!! "

Gr8t idea wrote on Feb 11, 2008 1:30 AM:

" I'm sure raising colesum tickets is going to have bloominton rolling n the $$$$ especially since no one hardly purchases tickets now! "

Bloomington wrote on Feb 11, 2008 12:17 AM:

" Bloomington doesn't like to tax and spend........it likes to SPEND and TAX!!!!! "

Chuck wrote on Feb 11, 2008 12:04 AM:

" How about a $0.25 luxury tax on a premium cup of coffee. Since you already spend $3.00 for that $0.15 cup of coffee, another quarter shouldn't be a big deal. Maybe you could even get Starbucks to kick in another quarter in matching funds as a "good community" gesture. They could advertise "Starbucks...building our communities together" and laugh all the way to the bank. "

T wrote on Feb 10, 2008 11:41 PM:

" Everyone likes to cmplain about the Colisuem, it is big bucks, and we see reports how things are going there......we also put big bucks into the P. Arts building, do we ever see a return on that money? "

i agree w/ 1st poster. wrote on Feb 10, 2008 11:32 PM:

" i am moving. this town sucks. "

FYI wrote on Feb 10, 2008 11:26 PM:

" It would be smarter for the city to add a $4-5 fee per ticket instead, as that does make quite a dent in the bonds(1.6M) and keeps the costs on those using the services of the Coliseum. We've got 10 years to deal with the current people running it...if they do a good job building business(so they make more bond-free money), then we can demand a fair percentage in the next contract...reguardless of who's running it. "

Angry Btown wrote on Feb 10, 2008 11:13 PM:

" Do you know we has a 'cop' that gets paid to just hang out at the city parks all night ? After the Peolo disaster , maybe we should take a hard look at ALOT of city employees. Huge salaries , sketchy 'jobs' ... people taking cars home that use them 'occasionally' ( What does that mean ? once a month ?) West side crime ( again thank you Judy , Hundman and Brady for shipping section 8 folks down here for your own profit / guess who got rich off the move ? ) When are people gonna wake up and demand some answers and accountability ? "

to Cut Employees wrote on Feb 10, 2008 11:05 PM:

" You must be a Republican with your knee-jerk Union bashing. Did the Unions push the Judy? Did the Unions push the performing arts center? Did the Unions push the new dispatch center? No. Lay the blame where it belongs, with the elected officials. "

To: annex into Normal wrote on Feb 10, 2008 10:39 PM:

" Normal's spending is under control? Our town council is borrowing and spending tens of millions on uptown, two hotels, shopping centers and maybe even a baseball stadium. We are at the stage that Blm mayor Markowitz was at about five years ago. I hear that Normal's debt per person went from zero to more than Blm's in just a few years. If you don't count students, its even worse. I think we will eventually welcome the help from Blm taxpayers, so come on over! At least your current Blm council has stopped doing all the big projects and seems to be investing in roads and paramedic service instead. "

to normal resident wrote on Feb 10, 2008 10:39 PM:

" That's easy for a Normal resident to say - they wouldn't have to pay for the $100 per car. We already pay for a use tax on the cars we purchase don't you think that is enough? How about decreasing Tom Hamilton's salary? He doesn't do anything anyways. "

ben dover wrote on Feb 10, 2008 10:36 PM:

" Maybe we could support the judydome with a has-been entertainer tax. "

To Normal Resident wrote on Feb 10, 2008 10:32 PM:

" Anyone on the board who approves an income tax will be voted out of office, that's something that I have no doubt about. "

nerd ferguson wrote on Feb 10, 2008 10:31 PM:

" with the sudden upsurge in blue jeans sales, maybe a jeans tax could replace the old outdated khakis tax? "

TC wrote on Feb 10, 2008 10:31 PM:

" Well, Judy's spending spree was fun for her, but not so much fun for those who must now pay the bills for all those projects. It's not just the coliseum, folks, but the arts center, government center, dispatch center and several others. Everybody on the council who voted for the coliseum is now gone, resigned or not re-elected, so its up to the current mayor and aldermen to figure this out. Not much fun there. I like the search for budget cuts but don't want to see any city services cut. I don't see how all these bills can be paid without some new taxes, but I hope they stay away from property taxes. "

Done here wrote on Feb 10, 2008 10:28 PM:

" We were planning to sell our current home and look for something else this year anyway. Now when we look, we will look outside of B-N in one of the smaller communities. The commute will be worth the money and aggravation saved by getting out of this town. There are suburbs of Chicago that pay less sales tax than we do now, and that's before the proposed tax hike. Family in the suburbs do not pay a city tax, but they do pay for vehicle stickers. I'd pay for a vehicle sticker before I'd pay for city tax on top of the state and federal taxes, property taxes and sales tax. Oh, and even though we live in Bloomington, we are in the Unit 5 school system, so we get a nice increase in property taxes to pay for something we didn't vote for and which we didn't want. All the tax and fee increases here in the last year are just bogus. We'll be doing most of our shopping elsewhere from now on. "

Coliseum wrote on Feb 10, 2008 10:26 PM:

" For most of the voters, I don't think the "unexpected" costs were really unexpected at all. I think most of us knew the thing would cost us big time. "

to MEH: wrote on Feb 10, 2008 10:25 PM:

" I agree....send JUDY the tab. How that woman can sleep at night is beyond me. I don't even live in Bloomington, but do shop there, or should I say, USED to shop there. Your sales tax increase is ridiculous, and I refuse to pay it. If I'm going to pay that kind of sales tax, I may as well go North, and at least enjoy the day. People can't dig any deeper in their pockets, cause they are already empty. Fire that Hamilton guy to start with. I'm sure glad I don't live there, and will NOT even come there any more. In fact, I plan to cancel the Pantagraph tomorrow, so I won't see the ads. "

To $$$ wrote on Feb 10, 2008 10:21 PM:

" What are you talking about? The mayor cannot forgive anything, the council must do that with a vote. The mayor doesn't even have a vote in the matter except in case of a tie. Also, the city never had a mortgage on the Front and Center Building. It was merely pledged for a security bo