TDS officials temporarily shut down a terminal at the Central Illinois Regional Airport on Nov. 3 after a suspicious package was found.  After a few hours, the package was determined to not pose a threat to safety. (Photo courtesy of CIRA)

McLean County

Local protesters take to streets after Trump victory

Protesters in Bloomington and Normal joined scores of like-minded persons in other cities across the U.S. in the days following Donald Trump’s victory over Hillary Clinton in this year’s presidential race. Demonstrations began occurring Wednesday afternoon, Nov. 9, in downtown Bloomington and on the Illinois State University campus in Normal.

Many of the protesters denounced Trump’s policy proposals on immigration and LGBT rights throughout the campaign season. Concerns over race relations also were aired. Police were on scene at both demonstrations, which spanned multiple days.      

After suspicious package threat, airport reopens

After locating what was deemed a “suspicious package,” TSA officials within the Central Illinois Regional Airport reopened a terminal. The item of concern, which was discovered in an X-ray machine about 10:40 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 3, was eventually found not to be a threat a few hours later.

The airport was evacuated, and all employees and passengers were told to wait in a parking area that was deemed a safe distance from the facility. The Secretary of State’s Explosive Ordinance Disposal Squad was among the agencies called in for assistance. The squad did not consider the package a threat, and the airport was reopened that afternoon.  

County’s wind farm policy back on the review table

Changes could be coming to McLean County’s wind farm policy, after a county board panel revived the issue. The County Board’s Zoning Board of Appeals on Tuesday, Nov. 1, recommended proceeding with a number of changes to an existing county ordinance.

The revisions touch on wind turbines’ noise levels, heights and decommission plans. The county board will delve further into the issue later this month and could make a recommendation. The county board mulled changing the ordinance in July, but ultimately postponed making a decision because of transparency concerns.

Bloomington

‘Dangerous intersection’ in the city could be tweaked  

After being deemed a “dangerous intersection” by Bloomington public works officials, the crossway between Washington Street and Euclid Avenue could be overhauled in the near future. One of the challenges, according to city officials, is the intersection’s proximity to Brown Street, which reportedly has caused navigation-related challenges.

Remedies under review include installing traffic signs and creating a roundabout. Residents will have an opportunity to discuss the issue at a public meeting, set for Tuesday, Nov. 15, at city hall.  

BCPA adds three new shows to 2016-17 lineup  

Amid its 10th anniversary celebration, the Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts has added three new shows for the 2016-17 season. A rendition of “A Christmas Carol” has been slated for 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 18.

A parody of a popular comedy is the focal point of “One Woman: Sex and the City,” set for 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 23. The musical performance, “The Young Irelanders” will occur on the eve of St. Patrick’s Day, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 16. For information on the shows, including ticket costs, visit www.artsblooming.org or call (309) 434-2777.

Normal

Town receives grant for two ‘insect hotels’

After receiving a grant from power company Ameren Illinois, plans are in motion for two insect hotels within Normal. The grants total $2,500 and are linked to the town being recognized as a progressive city. The hotels serve as pollinator habitats for various hotels.

Mayor Chris Koos said one of the hotel structures is planned for the Refuge Food Forest; the other will be installed within Illinois State University’s Horticulture Center. Ameren issues grants annually, recognizing communities for efforts toward energy efficiency, conservation, sustainability and improving residents’ quality of life.

Police increasing number of traffic warnings, citations

The number of warnings and citations issued by Normal Police officers has increased in recent years, statistics reveal. Police Chief Rick Bleichner said the year-over-year increases, which were notched in 2014 and 2015, are the outgrowth of an increased effort to have officers interact more regularly with the public. The town’s department policy encourages officers to have at least two contacts with the public for each shift.

Town’s Vision 2040 Plan unveiled to public

Vision 2040, a long-range document that has been in the works for several years, was officially unveiled at Normal’s Town Council meeting Monday, Nov. 7. The 38-page document, created by a task force of 25 residents, touches on such issues as the local economy, multiculturalism, lifelong learning opportunities and community engagement. The full document can be viewed on the town’s website, www.normal.org.

–McLean County News Briefs–