Local Budgets: Bloomington City Council debated its proposed 2027 civil budget, including a 2.7% cost-of-living pay bump for city employees and higher property tax levies, with five members voting against recommending the ordinance ahead of a final Oct. 7 session. Overnight Shopping: Kroger is testing 24-hour service at select Indiana stores, including Bloomington’s College Mall location, as the company rolls out a small pilot after many retailers cut back hours during the pandemic. Statehouse & Pensions: Sen. Daryl Schmitt touted Indiana’s plan to pay down the pre-1996 teacher retirement fund nearly a decade early, aiming for a final payment in fiscal 2028. Federal Disaster Aid: FEMA added Pike, Cass and Putnam counties to Indiana’s major disaster declaration, expanding access to Individual Assistance for storm and flooding impacts. Energy Grid Funding: Indiana is set to receive $175 million from the federal government to boost transfer capacity at a key “choke point” between regional electric grid operators. Workforce Development: Gov. Braun announced Power Up Indiana funding to raise wages and expand training for family services workers, including childcare and counseling roles. Surveillance Debate: A Florida Republican introduced the FLAFO Act to require warrants before federal agencies use automated license plate reader data, citing misuse concerns that have surfaced in Indiana and elsewhere. Sports & Culture: Indiana’s college football spotlight turns to Northwestern at Indiana, while local fans also weighed the latest WNBA controversy around trans eligibility and the Fever-Lynx matchup.