Dear Habitat Supporters, 

We are reaching out to express our concern about the escalating public safety issues affecting the Osage Place neighborhood. Yesterday’s events demonstrated that the situation has reached a point where immediate community awareness and action are necessary. While Habitat’s mission is building safe, affordable housing, that mission cannot be fulfilled without ensuring the safety of our staff, volunteers, homeowners, neighbors, and partners. 

In 2021, Habitat began constructing homes along South Bernard Drive in the Osage Place neighborhood. As we built more homes on the northern side of the property, we became increasingly aware of the encampment located on the County’s Thomson property. For years, we encountered no significant issues with the people living in the encampment. However, that has changed as its population has grown. 

On Wednesday, August 5, 2026, Habitat staff and volunteers were working on a home in Osage Place when gunshots were fired in close proximity to the construction site. Shortly afterward, four individuals came from the Thomson property (County property) onto Cherokee Drive (City property), where a physical altercation occurred. Habitat staff determined the situation posed an immediate safety risk, called 911, and sheltered inside the home under construction. 

The Bloomington Police Department responded to the call but was unable to locate the individuals involved. The responding officer stated that they had returned to the Thomson property, which is outside the Bloomington Police Department’s jurisdiction. The officer then contacted the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, which dispatched deputies to the Thomson property. 

We recognize that this is a unique situation, as the Thomson property is a county jurisdiction surrounded by city land. This creates challenges for officers and deputies responding to 911 calls when activity moves between jurisdictions. However, local officials are aware of reports of illegal activity, threats, and other public safety concerns associated with the encampment, as well as the potential risks to residents of both the city and the county. 

The problems at the encampment, and their effects on surrounding neighborhoods, have reached a critical turning point. Residents of Osage Place regularly report vehicle break-ins, gunshots, screaming, and other illegal or unsafe activity associated with the Thomson encampment. We encourage homeowners to remain vigilant and report incidents that occur near Osage Place. Habitat has been in communication with both city and county officials to encourage cooperation between law enforcement agencies. 

Local government officials are aware of the encampment’s increasing size and the public safety concerns reported in the area. An eviction notice has been posted on the Thomson property with a deadline of September 1, 2026, for individuals living in the encampment to leave. We anticipate increased tensions as the deadline approaches. At the same time, community response initiatives are being put in place to address homelessness and support those living on the Thomson property. 

At Habitat for Humanity, we believe everyone deserves a safe, affordable place to call home. We recognize that many people experiencing homelessness are not responsible for criminal activity, and we remain committed to supporting compassionate, long-term solutions that connect people with stable housing, mental health resources, and support services. Our concerns are centered on documented public safety issues affecting the Osage Place neighborhood. We believe communities are strongest when they prioritize both the safety of residents and the dignity and well-being of those in need. 

At the same time, we believe equal attention must be given to protecting nearby neighborhoods and those working and living adjacent to the property. We are asking for your support to help create an environment where residents can remain secure in their homes, and our staff and volunteers can continue building with confidence. 

We believe the magnitude of this issue calls for a coordinated and comprehensive response. We encourage you to contact City and County elected officials and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office to express your support for increased public safety efforts in and around the Thomson property. Ask local leaders to prioritize a stronger law enforcement presence, encourage collaboration between City and County agencies, and take proactive steps to address public safety concerns before the September 1 deadline. By speaking up, you can help ensure that Osage Place remains a safe neighborhood for residents, volunteers, staff, and everyone who calls this community home. 

 

Elected Officials Contact Information:  

Mayor Kerry Thomson 

Bloomington Common Council  

Monroe County Board of Commissioners  

Monroe County Council  

Monroe County Sheriff’s Office