State’s SB89 yields two three‑way alcohol permits for Bloomington; city must set local criteria

Staff reported that Indiana Senate Bill 89 (SB89) was approved and allocated two additional three‑way alcohol permits for Bloomington. Jane Coopersmith said the permits are intended as an economic development tool and noted there are additional administrative steps before the permits can be activated locally.

Coopersmith said the permits cost "$40,000 each" and that the city will need to determine qualification criteria and enter commitment agreements with recipients. She described uncertainty about whether permit fees would be refunded if a recipient failed to meet commitments and said the city may rely on the Alcohol and Tobacco Commission to enforce compliance and revert the permits to the state if commitments are not met.

A commissioner said they intend to draft local legislation to set criteria and governance for these permits so the process is clear, transparent and includes public input. Staff and commissioners commented the topic will require public education because prior discussions generated public concern.

No formal action was taken by the EDC at this meeting; staff flagged that the EDC’s role will likely be advisory and that staff will return with recommendations on criteria and governance.