Bloomington, Indiana, is partnering with Palo Alto, California, to hold a virtual town hall on October 13, 2024, aimed at tackling the pressing issues of housing affordability and access. As outlined in a 2018 report from the National Low Income Housing Coalition, Bloomington has the highest housing costs in Indiana, mirroring the long-standing challenges faced by Palo Alto. The town hall is part of the Sibling Cities USA initiative, which connects communities grappling with similar concerns. Attendees can expect discussions on innovative programs and strategies developed by both cities to ensure housing equity. Mayor Kerry Thomson will lead a delegation from Bloomington to Palo Alto, showcasing the importance of this sister city relationship.

Community members are invited to register in advance to participate actively in the discussion and share their insights. This event underscores the urgency of addressing homelessness and housing needs, with both cities committed to finding viable solutions. By connecting citizens and local leaders, the town hall aims to foster collaboration and inspire actionable change regarding housing policies.