Bloomington Board Backs New Co-Living Ordinance to Address Housing Affordability

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Bloomington Housing and Redevelopment Authority Board approved a letter of support for a new co-living ordinance aimed at offering more affordable housing options. The ordinance, which has been under development for nearly a year, introduces a set of regulations and definitions to facilitate co-living arrangements, targeting individuals at or below 30% of the Area Median Income (AMI).

Edina School Board Celebrates State Champs and Approves Key Budget Revisions

Overview: At the recent Edina School Board meeting, the board celebrated the Edina High School boys swim and dive team for their 2025 state championship victory and approved revisions to the fiscal year 2025 budget, highlighting a strong financial position and strategic planning for future challenges.

Bloomington City Council Advances Rezoning for Rainbow Midwest Amid Community and Business Discussions

Overview: The Bloomington City Council meeting on March 31, 2025, centered around a significant zoning change for Rainbow Midwest, a local business seeking to adapt its operational model. The council voted unanimously to amend the Comprehensive Plan and rezone the property on West 80th Street from industrial to commercial (B-2), facilitating the business’s continued operation and expansion. This rezoning marks a strategic shift in land use planning, focusing on accommodating community-oriented businesses and balancing industrial and commercial interests.

Bloomington Planning Commission Examines Sign Code Amendments and Office-to-Residential Conversions

Overview: The Bloomington Planning Commission meeting on March 27, 2025, was largely devoted to reviewing proposed amendments to the city’s sign code and discussing strategies for converting vacant office spaces into residential units. Key discussions revolved around the sign code’s one-year review, focusing on amendments to improve clarity and introduce new sign types, as well as strategies for office conversions amid rising vacancy rates.

Bloomington’s Hatch Program Seeks $100,000 Boost to Support Local Entrepreneurs

Overview: The Bloomington Port Authority Commission meeting focused heavily on the Hatch Bloomington program, a business initiative designed to bolster local entrepreneurship by providing financial and strategic support to small businesses. The commission deliberated on budget adjustments, with a proposal to allocate up to $90,000 for the program, reflecting its importance in fostering economic growth and attracting entrepreneurs to the city.