Good morning, Bloomington.

McLean County voters approved a 1% school sales tax by roughly 2,000 votes in Bloomington with totals of 17,415 to 15,427 and the tax will take effect July 1 on retail purchases, prepared food and gasoline while excluding groceries, prescription drugs and services.

School leaders say the revenue will fund repairs and help avoid future borrowing costs while a complaint of alleged election interference by school districts is being investigated by the county sheriff (state agencies have not taken further action).

Former Illinois House Rep. Dan Brady came out ahead in a three-way race for mayor of Bloomington—officials will soon certify the results so he can take office.

Voters in McLean County approved a 1% sales tax on Tuesday to fund school facility improvements, mental health services and school resource officers.

With 17,415 votes in favor and 15,427 against—one third of the revenue is expected to reduce property taxes for five years and will be distributed to schools based on enrollment.

Election officials said that on Tuesday, April 1, local voters in McLean County cast ballots in a consolidated election with overall turnout as low as 20—despite strong civic duty shown at polling places like The Den at Fox Creek.

Officials noted that Normal saw higher turnout around 35—40 while other parts of the county brought the average down, and no major voting problems were reported.

Bloomington City Council will welcome a new member next month as Abby Scott beat Roger Bedeker 58% to 42% in Ward 9 while incumbent Jenna Kearns kept her seat in Ward 1 after beating Ben Zimmerman 57% to 43%.

Scott, a data scientist at State Farm who replaces Tom Crumpler, said she will use data analysis to improve city efficiency and Kearns said housing remains a top priority.

Abby Scott won the Ward 9 City Council seat on Tuesday (1393 votes while Roger Bedeker got 1009 votes).

Incumbent Tom Crumpler did not run for re-election.

The Phil Collins Experience

7:00–8:30 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $25.00+ — Experience the hits of Phil Collins performed live by an acclaimed tribute band.

Loudernow Concert

8 PM — The Castle Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an exciting night of live music at The Castle Theatre.

Million Dollar Time Machine

7-9 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $59.00+ — Experience the ultimate time travel show with legendary musical acts emerging live on stage.

Zoso - A Tribute to Led Zeppelin

7-10 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $24.00+ — Experience the ultimate tribute to Led Zeppelin with a captivating performance of classic hits and stunning visuals.

Study of the Gospel of Mark

7:45-8:45 p.m. — Bloomington Public Library — Free entry — Read and discuss Mark's Gospel while exploring fundamental Christian beliefs and values.

Biscuits n Gravy Band Live Performance

7-10 p.m. — THE STATION SALOON — Entry details not provided — Enjoy a night of classic rock and groovy tunes in the heart of Central Illinois.

20 Over 60 Awards

4:30-6 p.m. — Rob Dob's Restaurant & Bar — Celebration of community leaders over 60 — Honoring impactful contributions by older adults in the community.

DEWALT Days 2025

12 AM — Blain's Farm & Fleet — Free entry — Explore DEWALT tools and get expert advice during this special event.