This is the WFHB Local News for Monday, March 15th, 2021.

Later in the program, we have the latest edition of A Few Minutes with the Mayor - our weekly segment where we ask Bloomington Mayor John Hamilton listener-posed questions on community issues. More coming up in today’s feature report.

Also coming up in the next half hour, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced a cleanup plan for the Martinsville Superfund Site at Pike and Mulberry Streets. More in today’s headlines.

But first, your local news brief:

(Photo by Kurt Spitler of the Hoosier Network).

Indiana University basketball coach Archie Miller has made the news twice in the past week. The first time was when IU football coach Tom Allen got a raise to an almost five million dollar yearly salary, surpassing Archie Miller’s three and a half million a year. Archie Miller again made the news this morning, after Indiana University fired him. His firing comes after a disappointing season’s finish.

Last week the City of Bloomington announced that it would provide $12,000 one-time mortgage down payments and a vehicle ownership subsidy for Bloomington Police officers. Chief Diekhoff described the measure as a way to, “Attract and retain the best possible candidates for our department is our goal.” Critics of the program have voiced disappointment, noting that the City consistently allocates more funds to the police department over issues like homelessness and social services.

In state news, Indiana teachers are now eligible to get the Covid-19 vaccine. After months of lobbying by statehouse Democrats and state teachers unions, it was only after Biden’s presidential executive order on vaccinating teachers, that Indiana assented. Starting today, teachers and staff in pre-K through high school, at childcare centers, and in Head Start and Early Start programs can schedule vaccine appointments. While College level instructors are not yet eligible, licensed childcare providers, classroom aides, bus drivers, janitors, counselors, administration staff, cafeteria workers, and substitute teachers may all make vaccination appointments as well.

Photo courtesy of the Indianapolis Star.

All Hoosiers 50 years old and older are currently eligible to sign up to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

Bloomington COVID-19 Press Conference

Monroe County Health Administrator Penny Caudill announced that any childcare and education workers can receive a COVID-19 vaccination at any clinic during their March twelfth COVID-19 press conference. She reminded the community of the Centers for Disease Control and Preventions definition of fully vaccinated individuals.

Caudill mentioned CDC guidance for fully vaccinated people concerns only small gatherings. She stated vaccinated individuals in public spaces must still maintain a six-foot distance and wear a mask.

Caudill stated vaccinated individuals would have to quarantine if determined a close contact but should still monitor for symptoms. Indiana University Health South Central Region Brian Shockney said IU Health has given about 20 percent of Indiana Vaccinations.

Caudill mentioned Monroe County saw a moderate increase of COVID-19 community spread. IU Vice President for Engagement Kirk White stated the IU vaccination clinic will open on March 29th.

Monroe County Board of Public Health 

The Monroe County Board of Health debated COVID-19 regulations concerning guests at communal living facilities. Monroe County Health Administrator Penny Caudill stated the current regulation.

House Director Bill Kershner requested the board allow fifteen guests outside of the communal living building. Board member Ashley Cranor stated she would not want to see more than fifteen people outdoors together including house residents.