“A public meeting this week attracted a small but vocal group opposed to using public funding for ... a convention center in downtown Bloomington. An argument against such funding is that it would be used for the benefit of just a few businesses and individuals.
“We disagree. ... A healthy downtown has benefits far beyond the businesses located there. It symbolizes the vitality of a community, helping attract new economic growth and cultural opportunities while strengthening existing business, industry and quality of life.”
H-T editorial, Feb. 16, 1989
Since that was published, an innkeepers tax has supported the convention and visitors bureau and the convention center at Third and College. The center now needs to be expanded to be competitive for larger and more profitable meetings.
Twenty-four years ago, a food and beverage tax was also on the table as a means of funding that center. It wasn’t needed then; it is now, if Bloomington and Monroe County are going to optimize their attractive and lucrative convention and tourism sector.
This week, a vocal group opposed the tax during a public meeting. Many other people supported it in previous meetings. Members of the Monroe County Council are scheduled to vote on the tax Sept. 10.
Those who live outside of Bloomington wonder what benefit they will get from the expanded convention center. Our answer is the same as in 1989. Bloomington is the center of this county’s economy, and the added strength brought by increased convention business would not stop at the city limits.
...
We know this: Those living on a very limited income have choices about where to buy food. Those who choose the convenience of a restaurant or fully prepared foods in a deli would pay an extra nickel or dime over the $5 or $10 they would pay for groceries. That’s their choice, and it’s not onerous.
