Danielle Robertson (at-large, newly elected), Dwayne Loman (District 1, re-elected to a fifth term), and Shawn Nelson (District 2, re-elected) were sworn in by acting city clerk Matt Brillard. Council member Dalisandro was absent from the meeting.
Mayor read a proclamation designating Jan. 19, 2026 as MLK Day in Bloomington. Bloomington Black Employee Network members spoke, highlighting a Jan. 20 National Day of Racial Healing event co-hosted with several metro cities and counties, held in-person at the Black Box Theater from 6–7:30 p.m.
Council adopted the 2026 planning commission work plan (23 projects, ~4,065 staff hours), with major focus shifting to the 2050 Comprehensive Plan update. Council Member Nelson argued any continued off-airport parking should use structured parking rather than surface lots to preserve redevelopment value and tax revenue; other members asked about early public engagement and an ongoing equity review of the zoning code.
Council approved the First Amendment to the agreement with VEP (a business/economic development partner). Council Member Nelson recused himself citing his separate board seat with VEP, and Council Member Rivas voted against; the motion passed 4-1 with one abstention.
To balance workload across the three transportation corridor commissions (Hwy 169, I-35W, I-494) tied to Dalisandro's district, council appointed Robertson as the city's I-35W Solutions Alliance representative and Nelson as alternate, with Loman stepping down from that seat.
After both Council Member Rivas and newly sworn Council Member Robertson expressed interest in the HRA board seat, council appointed Robertson (motion by Carter, second by Nelson-leaning discussion), with a divided vote. Rivas argued the process was inconsistent with past practice favoring seniority/experience, and Carter said her support for Robertson was tied to Robertson's past votes and comments about HRA funding, not disrespect for differing views.
Council Member Loman asked whether the city has a contingency plan for a potential federal government shutdown at the end of January, citing risks to childcare and housing assistance for residents. City Manager Zack Walker said staff is monitoring the situation and will bring more information back to council; the mayor suggested regular federal-update briefings going forward.
Following the HRA vote, Council Member Rivas called for the council to formalize written criteria for board/commission appointments (seniority vs. qualifications) to avoid appearing inconsistent or politically biased to the public, citing resident texts and emails about the decision. Carter clarified her opposition to Rivas was based on his stated approach to HRA funding, not disrespect, prompting a lengthy exchange on housing policy and use of public funds.
