The council devoted significant time to the concept of “Missing Middle” housing, which includes options such as triplexes, fourplexes, detached townhomes, cottage courts, and multiplexes. These housing types are seen as critical for providing affordable and diverse living options for a wide range of residents, including those living alone or in childless families. The city representative highlighted that approximately 33% of households in Bloomington consist of single residents, while another 30% are families without children.

The council discussed the potential zoning changes required to accommodate these housing types. Current zoning regulations, which often favor single-family homes, pose challenges to developing diverse housing. The council considered proposals to permit these housing types in various districts, including R-3 and R-4, with discussions on whether to allow them in R-1 zoning as well. Setbacks, density thresholds, and parking requirements were key points of discussion, as the council seeks to balance neighborhood compatibility with the need for increased housing density.

Triplexes and fourplexes were proposed for R3 and R4 districts, with reduced setbacks to increase the availability of lots. Multiplexes, defined as five to six units, would also be accommodated in these districts, maintaining similar reduced setbacks and parking standards. Cottage courts, a novel concept, would feature units oriented towards a shared courtyard, offering a community-focused living arrangement.

The council members debated the implications of these proposals, particularly the integration of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) within new developments. The potential for conditional use permits in R1 zones was also discussed, allowing for triplexes and fourplexes under specific conditions. This approach aims to provide flexibility for developers while maintaining neighborhood integrity.

In addition to housing discussions, the council reviewed financial strategies, particularly regarding the city’s reserve funds. The finance department presented a reserve study, emphasizing the importance of maintaining adequate reserves to weather economic downturns and natural disasters. Using Monte Carlo simulation, the study projected the city’s financial health over the next decade.

Utility rates were another focal point, with discussions on the stormwater and solid waste budgets. The stormwater fund holds a healthy reserve, negating the need for rate increases in 2026, despite a proposed $450,000 boost for capital projects. The solid waste program proposed a new rate structure to encourage sustainable waste management. This structure includes a 6% rate reduction for small service options and a 30% cut for every-other-week garbage collection, incentivizing residents to downsize their garbage cart sizes. Households with large carts will face a 38% rate increase, promoting waste reduction and recycling.

These adjustments reflect the council’s focus on financial prudence and environmental sustainability.

The council meeting also addressed staffing changes and budget priorities across various departments. A notable decision was the elimination of a 0.5 full-time equivalent position in the assessing team, attributed to ongoing turnover and a slowdown in development. The Parks and Recreation Department outlined its budget, highlighting increases in staffing costs and maintenance needs, particularly for facilities like the Bloomington Ice Garden.