Bloomington, Illinois Development News

Bloomington City Council Reviews BHCC Funding, Audit, and Financial Oversight

The Bloomington City Council Committee of the Whole discussed the funding and process of the Behavioral Health Coordinating Council (BHCC), including the intergovernmental agreement (IGA) signed in 2016, the allocation of sales tax funds, the creation of the Mental Health and Public Safety Funding Advisory Committee (FAC) in 2024, and the need for an audit to track finances. Council Member Montney presented information on the historical context, the roles of different committees, and addressed questions regarding fund utilization, measures of success, and the process for funding recommendations. The discussion also touched upon the significant accumulation of funds, with approximately $45 million from sales taxes transferred between 2016 and 2025. The audit, initiated in July, was expected to take two to three months after the services agreement was signed in January 2026. Discussions also involved the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (CJCC) and the Safe Cities Commission, with questions about potential funding coordination and shared sales tax dollars. Council Member Ward raised concerns about the lack of formal monitoring and evaluation processes and requested clarification on fund expenditures and future plans for the carry-forward balance. The City Manager provided an update on the paused amount of $838,000, which remains restricted pending council direction, and the current fund balance as of June 30th was $19.4 million. The conversation highlighted the distinct roles of the city, town, and county in managing these funds and the ongoing need for clarity and accountability.