Bloomington residents, get ready to make your voices heard! The Bloomington City Council is gearing up for a public hearing on May 6, to discuss potential updates to the city's landscaping laws. This change, if passed, would align local codes with Minnesota's recently adopted statute on managed natural landscapes. It's all about keeping those laws fresh, accurate, and eco-friendly.

For those with a stake in how the community embraces its greenery, the Council Chambers doors at 1800 West Old Shakopee Road will swing open at 6:30 p.m., welcoming public opinions. Can't show up in person? No sweat, the city's got you covered with broadcasts on BTV, available on Comcast channels 859 or 14, and streamed online for anyone with an internet connection. If you like your public process with a side of convenience, these options are prime.

But maybe you're the type who likes to lend their two cents directly – Bloomington has a line open for that. You'll secure your virtual soapbox by dialing 1-415-655-0001 on the meeting day and punching in the yet-to-be-announced access code and password. Press *3, and you’ll be in the queue to share your thoughts. Just hold tight until they call you up by the digits of your phone number to talk turkey.

Planning ahead is always a solid move, and the city thinks so, too. Leave a voicemail or shoot an email to the council secretary by 2 p.m. on the hearing date, and your input will join the public record. Just remember, throw in your contact details and whether you'll pop by or call in during the live meeting. It's that simple, that direct. A full copy of the proposed ordinance is ripe for the picking online or at the City Clerk's Office during regular hours, for those who fancy a bit of pre-meeting homework.

Got burning questions or itching to toss in your two cents before the crowd? Environmental Health Manager Lynn Moore is the go-to person, reachable at [email protected] or by phone. A proper chat or a well-crafted email, and you could nudge the city's green thumb just where it needs to go. This is local governance in action, folks, and every voice counts in painting the future of Bloomington's natural canvas.

For more information on how to participate or to view the meeting agenda and documents, you're just a click away at the City of Bloomington's official website. Mark those calendars, Bloomington, and let's see which way the wind will blow on this environmental update.