Another housing development proposal shot down by Monroe County Commissioners
Last week, Monroe County Commissioners ignored the recommendations of their own Planning Department, and rejected the proposed development of 44 acres on Bloomington’s Southside. A 125 housing development off of Victor Pike, adjacent to the Clear Creek walking trail was proposed by Donnie Adkins and Kevin Schmidt, to build middle-income homes during a shortfall of available housing. It should be noted that although the hearing included testimony from local real estate agent experts, one Commissioner denied the existence of the housing shortage because a contact of hers found a home on the site Zillow for $135,000.
Commissioners cited protentional addition of flooding and the way the area may look in 20 years as their rationale for rejecting this proposal. This is the third rejection this year of a proposed housing project on Bloomington’s Southside.
Bloomington South student taken to Juvenile Detention over firearm
This past Thursday, an unnamed 14 year-old student at Bloomington High School South brought a gun to school. Although the weapon was never used in a threatening manner, school staff were able to take possession of the gun and refer the matter to the Bloomington Police Department, who in turn, referred the case to Juvenile Detention for the charge of possessing a firearm on school property. School Principal Mark Fletcher emailed parents, alerting them to the situation.
Attorney General Todd Rokita warns Hoosiers to beware of purchasing flood-damaged vehicles
Attorney General Todd Rokita is warning Hoosier consumers to watch out for flood-damaged vehicles when shopping for used cars. As a result of the recent Hurricane Ida, tens of thousands of vehicles were likely submerged by flooding. Prior to Hurricane Ida, there were already almost a half million flood-damaged vehicles on U.S. roads. That number is now likely to increase significantly. Flood damage to a vehicle is often catastrophic, and even if the most obvious damage is repaired, the vehicle can suffer long-lasting effects. Besides cosmetic and engine damage, floods can short out a vehicle’s electrical system and compromise safety features such as airbags and anti-lock brakes. Floods also can cause mold and mildew infestation that can result in health issues for passengers long after a vehicle was submerged.
If a vehicle is flood damaged, its title should be branded as “salvage” or “flood damage,” and such a title brand must be disclosed in writing to a purchasing consumer. However, some flood-damaged vehicles lack such a title brand due to fraudulent activity. Such unbranded vehicles will be moved to states throughout the country, including Indiana, and sold to unsuspecting consumers. With the current shortage of used car inventory, unscrupulous sellers will likely be even more aggressive in pushing flood-damaged vehicles onto the market. To reduce the risk of unknowingly purchasing a flood-damaged vehicle, consumers should follow these steps prior to making a transaction:
- Ask the dealer to provide a vehicle history report. If the dealer refuses to provide such a report, purchase one yourself. Consumers can obtain a vehicle history report from a variety of sources, such as Carfax, Autocheck, the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System, or the National Insurance Crime Bureau.
- Check the vehicle’s history report to see if there are any reported title brands on the vehicle, such as “salvage,” “rebuilt,” “junk” or “flood damage.” Also note on the report the state or geographic area where the vehicle was last titled or registered to determine if the vehicle was recently located in an area affected by flooding.
- Ask to see the vehicle’s title, or a copy of the title, and check to see if the title includes any title brands, including “salvage,” “rebuilt,” “junk” or “flood damage.”
- Inspect the vehicle closely for any signs of flood damage by checking to ensure all electronic components, including the heat and air conditioning, are operational. Check for any signs of mud or rust anywhere on or in the vehicle, including the engine compartment. Check for discolored or mildewed carpeting. Note whether the vehicle has any odd smells. Be suspicious of a vehicle that smells like mildew. The aroma of heavy disinfectants and cleaners may also be an indicator that someone has tried to mask a mold or odor problem.
- Take the vehicle for a test drive
- Have an independent mechanic of your choosing inspect the vehicle prior to purchase. Specifically ask the mechanic to check for any signs of flood damage.
If a consumer suspects a recently purchased vehicle was flood-damaged, and such damage was not disclosed prior to sale, the consumer should file a consumer complaint at www.in.gov/attorneygeneral.
Bloomington Recycling pick-up resumes
Starting today, City of Bloomington sanitation customers can expect recycling pickup to resume, along with solid waste/trash pickup, on their usual collection day. If recycling items exceed the capacity of the City recycling bin, customers may set out extra items in other containers. Recycling placed in plastic bags will not be collected. The Sanitation Division of the Department of Public Works paused regular recycling pickup last week due to a COVID-19-related staffing shortage. The Sanitation Division collected solid waste/trash and yard waste last week, as well as the occasional recycling bins brought to the curb. To learn about your pickup day, what can be recycled, and the latest updates, enter your address at this link. Contact Sanitation at 812-349-3443 for more information or with questions.