Laserfiche WebLink
REGULAR MEETING AUGUST 8, 2011 <br /> <br /> <br /> <br />development within LaSalle Square, the City Redevelopment Commission agreed to <br />purchase and donate property to this project. In addition to property owned by Faith <br />Apostolic Church, they are picking up the former Fernando’s Restaurant, which is the <br />subject of the rezoning. He stated that they believe this will allow the development to fit <br />better on the site, and allow for the street improvement at LaSalle Square in conjunction <br />with this development. It will include Bonds Avenue into this square as well as <br />improvements to the north/south drive running west of the proposed development, in <br />addition to the utility easement. He stated that they appreciate the importance of this <br />project and recognize it as a way to kick start additional private development in LaSalle <br />Square in accordance with the LaSalle Square Plan and City Plan. He stated that the City <br />is making a substantial investment in land acquisition and road improvement. <br /> <br />Mr. Lance Swank, Sterling Group, 3900 Edison Lakes Parkway, Mishawaka, Indiana, <br />advised that they have been working on this project for quite some time. He stated that <br />they have received their financing earlier this year and realized that with the construction <br />of new roads, new right-of-way is needed. He stated that to pick up some additional <br />needed space they needed to acquire the former Fernando’s Restaurant. It will create an <br />“L” shape and allow more open space and better fit. Mr. Swank advised that this is an <br />estimated 7.3 million dollar investment. It is seventy-two senior units with all the <br />amenities, beauty salon, computer work stations, community rooms and patio areas <br />outside in the open space. He stated that this project will be a nice addition to the LaSalle <br />Square Area. <br /> <br />Ms. Margo DeMotte, Representative, Memorial Hospital, South Bend, Indiana, stated <br />that they having been working a long time on this project and she believers that it will <br />help LaSalle Square survive, thrive and help get retail back into the area. She stated that <br />they are seeking federal grants that President Obama is sponsoring. She stated that with <br />the help of the Urban Garden Market they would like to see a grocery store along with a <br />pharmacy locate in the area. Ms. DeMotte stated that this project will allow for 72 <br />seniors to live independently and continue to enjoy their golden years. <br /> <br />This being the time heretofore set for the Public Hearing on the above bill, proponents <br />and opponents were given an opportunity to be heard. <br /> <br />Ms. Linda Wolfson, 809 Park Avenue, South Bend, Indiana, advised that she is a member <br />of the LaSalle Square Steering Committee and a member of the Community Forum for <br />Economic Development. She stated that they have worked a long time to help assist the <br />neighbors in revitalizing the LaSalle Square Area. She urged the Council’s favorable <br />consideration. <br /> <br />Mr. Zac Smith, 1536 Cobblestone, Granger, Indiana, stated that the elderly need to have a <br />decent place to live. He asked the Council to consider favorably the project at LaSalle <br />Square. <br /> <br />Councilmember Henry Davis raised a concern of public transportation to this <br />development. <br /> <br />Councilmember Oliver Davis stated that as the Council’s representative to TRANSPO, he <br />would like to have a letter drafted addressing Councilmember Henry Davis’ concerns to <br />accommodate this project. <br /> <br />Councilmember Henry Davis asked if a project labor agreement was being considered for <br />minority contractors. <br /> <br />Mr. Swank stated that there is no federal, state or local requirement; however, they use <br />10%. <br /> <br />Councilmember White asked how long has this project been in the works? <br /> <br />Mr. Swank advised that it has been a long journey of four (4) years and finally come to <br />fruition with the help of the LaSalle Square Steering Committee. <br /> 6 <br /> <br />