The Bloomington City Council has announced a forthcoming public hearing to deliberate on the imposition of fees for the removal of weeds, brush, and yard waste from properties that have fallen short of city cleanliness standards. This hearing, scheduled for September 9, offers residents the opportunity to voice their objections to the proposed assessments, which originate from Chapter 10, Article VI of the City Code, authorized by Minn. Stat.§ 429.101 subd. 1(a)(2), as reported by Bloomington City's official website. Those with fines at risk of being added to their property taxes have until the hearing date to settle said fines with the Bloomington Finance Department, thus avoiding additional penalties.
The city's actions stem from an ongoing initiative to ensure neighborhood aesthetics and safety by controlling overgrown vegetation. An assessment roll, which itemizes the properties along with the corresponding removal charges, is available for public inspection at the Bloomington Civic Plaza, according to the City of Bloomington. In accordance with city policy, property owners who wish to contest the amount of their assessment must submit a written objection to the City Clerk before the hearing, or directly present their case to the Mayor during said event.
For residents looking to participate or observe the proceedings, the September 9th hearing will be accessible either in-person at the Council Chambers or electronically in compliance with Minnesota state law. Citizens can watch the session live via BTV on Comcast channels 859 or 14, online platforms, or the City's YouTube channel. Moreover, public testimony is encouraged and can be provided at the venue, by phone utilizing a designated access code and password, or in advance via voicemail or email to the council secretary.
Additional queries regarding assessment rights and other relevant concerns can be answered by the Accounts Receivable Division of the Finance Department, as per the notice obtained by the City's website.
