BLOOMINGTON — Tensions are mounting at the Monroe County-owned Thomson property off South Rogers Street following a second report of gunfire in just one week. The recent violence at the site—commonly known as “Powerline Camp”—has prompted calls from local leadership and business groups to clear the homeless encampment ahead of its scheduled Sept. 1 deadline.
The encampment, currently home to roughly 40 residents, sits near the developing Osage Place neighborhood and RCA Park. On Wednesday, August 12, law enforcement responded to reports of shots fired, ultimately discovering 21 spent 9mm shell casings and one unspent round near the site. The incident follows an August 5 altercation nearby where witnesses reported hearing four gunshots. No injuries or armed suspects were located in either instance.
In the wake of the gunfire, both the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce and Bloomington Mayor Kerry Thomson urged county leaders to accelerate the closure and step up law enforcement presence to protect neighboring areas.
However, Monroe County officials maintain that the Sept. 1 timeline remains in place for now, emphasizing that an immediate shutdown is delayed by logistical needs and the development of a long-term strategy.
Chief Deputy Phil Parker of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office explained that clearing the camp early is ineffective without a clear post-encampment plan to prevent residents from simply returning. The sheriff’s office expects to submit a final management plan to county commissioners by today, Monday, Aug. 17. Once submitted, Sheriff Ruben Marté supports discussions to potentially move the deadline forward.
In the meantime, County Commissioner Julie Thomas noted that while service providers continue working with camp residents, law enforcement retains the authority to act sooner if an emergency arises.
Logistics and Cleanup Preparedness
- Site Cleanup: Commissioners approved a contract worth up to $70,000 with Bio-One NW Indianapolis to handle the physical clearing of the property. Workers will sort personal valuables from trash, while hazardous items like needles will follow strict disposal protocols, and any weapons or drugs found will be turned over to the sheriff’s office.
- Long-Term Monitoring: To prevent reoccupation, the county is considering a draft $150,000 bond request to purchase surveillance cameras and drones for security monitoring.
