03-08-10 Public Works & Property Vacation

Home Browse Search

Public Works and Property Vacation Committee 2010 South Bend Common Council The March 8, 2010 meeting of the Public Works and Property Vacation Committee of the South Bend Common Council was called to order by its Chairperson, Council Member David Varner at 4:22 p.m. in the Council's Informal Meeting Room. Persons in attendance included Council Members Rouse, Kirsits, Oliver J. Davis, Varner, White, Dieter, LaFountain, and Puzzello, Rita Kopola, Phil Byrd, Don Inks, Jeff Parrott of the South Bend Tribune, and Kathleen Cekanski-Farrand, Council Attorney. Dr. Varner noted that the Committee members include Council Members Henry Davis, Jr., Tom LaFountain, Timothy Rouse and himself; and that a quorum of the Committee was present. Bill No. 7-10 Request to Vacate a portion of Allen's Alley Dr. Varner noted that a request has been received from the Petitioner to continue Bill No. 07-10 until the March 22, 2010 meeting (copies attached). Council Member Rouse made a motion, seconded by Council Member LaFountain that Bill No. 07-10 be recommended to be continued until March 22, 2010 at the request of the Petitioner. The motion passed. Bill No 12-10 Request to Vacate a portion of the First North/South Alley East of LaPorte Avenue Dr. Varner called for a presentation on Bill No. 12-10 which is a request to vacate the first north/south alley east of LaPorte Avenue along Colfax Avenue to the first east/west alley for a distance of 198 feet and a width of 8 feet. Phil Byrd, Executive Director of South Bend Heritage Foundation (SBHF), stated that SBHF owns and operates the historic Dunbar Corners Apartments which are located to the west of the alley in question. Part of those apartments are 7" over the property line and into the alley. The proposed vacation would address this. He also provided a map. In response to questions from Dr. Varner, Mr. Byrd stated that it is their intent to split the eight feet (8') in half. He added that the house would stay and would be remodeled. The vacation is needed to correct the defect found in the survey for a proper title. Dr. Varner voiced continuing concern in light of being contacted by individuals. He requested that the petitioner put their intent and use commitments in writing. Dr. Varner suggested that the Bill be continued so that everyone is properly informed.