Government Bodies :

Bloomington, Minnesota is governed by a seven member part-time City Council. Members include the mayor and six Council members, four of whom are elected from districts and two who are elected at-large. Members are elected to four year terms, except during redistricting when all district council members have a two year term. Elections are non-partisan.

· Fire Protection: Bloomington has one of the largest volunteer fire departments in the country with 150 firefighters. They provide fire protection that has resulted in a Class 3 fire rating. The department operates six fire stations and utilizes the latest in fire fighting equipment. The department has a total of 30 fire fighting vehicles including pumpers, hook and ladder and specialty units (one vehicle compact enough to navigate the Mall of America's parking ramps), all of which are equipped with Opticom System equipment, which automatically switches traffic signals to expedite emergency runs. The average response time is four minutes.

· Police Protection: Public safety is protected by Bloomington's 110 officer police force. The officers have very sophisticated squad cars which help aid them in their round-the-clock patrol. Each squad car contains a computer-assisted dispatching center that contains a computerized records system, mobile digital terminals, which allow officers direct access to warrant information and state motor vehicle and drivers license records, and Opticom System equipment, which automatically switches traffic signals. The police force is also supported by three canine teams, a fully equipped bomb squad, and highly trained SWAT team.
Human Services: Bloomington Human Services helps to improve the lives of residents by identifying needs and problems. They provide services that are accessible to youth, families, older adults and people with disabilities.

· Health Service: Bloomington Public Health (BPH) promotes practices and behaviors to help you stay healthy. Its range of services and programs is far-reaching, providing health care for all ages. If you live or work in Bloomington, Edina or Richfield, you can benefit from our community health services.