Overview: During a recent Bloomington City Council meeting, the primary focus was on the 2026 preliminary tax levy and general fund budget, sparking public interest and concern over rising property taxes and their implications for residents. Corey Carlson presented an overview of the budget process, emphasizing the projected 9.44% increase in the tax levy, which is the highest allowable before finalizing the budget in December. This increase is primarily driven by the expiration of several funding sources, including the American Rescue Plan grant funding and two SAFER grants that support fire department personnel.