This is the WFHB Local News for September 30th, 2021.

Later in the program, we have a new edition of Prescription for Healthcare - a monthly podcast collaboration between WFHB and Medicare for All - Indiana. More in the bottom half of tonight’s show.

Also coming up in the next half hour, on Tuesday, Beacon Inc. hosted a memorial vigil for people experiencing homelessness who have lost their lives in the last year. More in today’s headlines.

But first, your Statehouse Roundup:

Last week on September 23rd, State Representative Carey Hamilton made a statement regarding the new redistricting maps that were brought forward earlier this month. Representative Hamilton advised members of the House to vote against the proposed maps as Hamilton stated, “These maps are among the most gerrymandered in the history of our nation and if signed into law will disenfranchise Hoosier voters: urban, rural, Republicans and Democrats, alike.” Hamilton proposed that the redistricting maps that were presented should be fully discarded, and the process should be restarted.

This month, there have been a few updates to the Monroe County Annexation Plan. Earlier this month, the Bloomington City Council voted and approved area 1A to be annexed into the city of Bloomington. Members of the City Council that voted against the annexation were Dave Rollo, Ron Smith, and Susan Sandberg. Rollo commented in his statement that the reason he voted against the annexation was due to its involuntary implementation. Rollo further went on to point out how the recently annexed area is home to many elderly residents with low income. “It could have been a voluntary process, it could have been recorded, it could have included more engagement, and it could have happened at a time post-pandemic.

A sentiment, by which, was also brought up by other residents who were also concerned about the financial ramifications of the annexation. Since then, the City Council has voted for 7 of the 8 areas to be annexed.

Board of Park Commissioners Discuss Trail Project at Lake Griffy Lake

(Photo courtesy of former WFHB  Correspondent Alex Dederer).

At the Bloomington Board of Park Commissioners meeting on September 28th the board approved a contract with E&B Paving for the Griffy Lake Loop Trail Project and Accessible Fishing Pier construction.

Operations and Development Division Director Tim Street announced the Griffy Lake Loop Project’s final design, and explained what the project intends to accomplish.

Bloomington Resident Greg Alexander, made a public comment pointing out that the Bicentennial Bond approved funding for a section of the project that, due to budget reasons, the official design does not include anymore.

Director Paula Mcdevitt responded to the comment, reassuring the board that the design changes have been approved, and explained why the changes were made.

The construction contract was approved unanimously. The next meeting will be held on October 19th.

Beacon Inc. Hosts a Memorial Vigil for People Experiencing Homelessness

On Tuesday at the Monroe County Courthouse, local anti-poverty organization Beacon Incorporated hosted the 18th annual memorial vigil for community members who have passed away this year while experiencing homelessness.

Organizers say the vigil was a part of a national movement to protest the tragedy of homelessness and memorialize the lives lost.

Carney Strange,