City officials want to remove County Residents Against Annexation, Inc. as a party in the case against annexation of Areas 1A and 1B on Bloomington’s southwest side.
The case is scheduled for a five-day bench trial April 29 th.
The city argues that only property owners within the annexation area have standing in remonstrance proceedings and the CRAA doesn’t have evidence of direct membership or interest in the areas.
The challenge specifically mentions CRAA president Margaret Clements who doesn’t own land in Area 1A or 1B and is not a remonstrator.
Pushing City Limits: Bloomington Annexation Coverage
Clements says they’re a codified recognized IRS 501 C3 public charity representing the most diverse grassroots movement the county has ever seen.
“It is ridiculous to assume that each individual over thousands of people would be able to do this on their own, so it required some organization, some communication, some information, some education, and some representation,” Clements said.
Objections by the CRAA to dismiss the city’s motion include claims of untimeliness, associational standing and interpretations of statutes.
A hearing is set for Monday at 8 a.m. with Lawrence Circuit Court Judge Nathan Nikirk presiding.
