Bloomington could open more sites to adult businesses

Officials in Bloomington say a proposal that would open up more property in the area to adult businesses is aimed at protecting the city against lawsuits.

Only about eight acres in Bloomington, accounting for less than 1 percent of the city, are available to adult bookstores, movie theaters, novelty stores and similar businesses, The Herald-Times of Bloomington reported.

Current city ordinances prevent sexually oriented businesses from opening within 500 feet of churches, schools, day care centers, parks, large shopping centers and cemeteries. Changes endorsed by the city's plan commission would remove cemeteries and large shopping centers from the list.

City official James Roach said the proposal would get the city in line with Supreme Court rulings by allowing adult businesses in about 4 percent of Bloomington. The City Council must still review the proposal.