03-26-12 Community & Economic Development Committee

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COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MARCH 26, 2012 Committee Members Present: Henry Davis, Karen White, Gavin Ferlic, Dr. Fred Ferlic Citizen Members: Patricia Crowley Other Council Members Present: Tim Scott, Val Schey, Dr. Varner, Derek Dieter, Oliver Davis, Derek Dieter Others Present: Kevin Allen, Kathy Cekanski- Farrand, Bill Schalliol, Aaron Perri, Mark Lyons, Mike Divita, Christa Nayder Agenda: Bill No. 12 -27 — Amend South Bend Central Redevelopment Area Bill No. 12 -26 — Encourage Riverfront Redevelopment Area Bill No. 10 -12 — Amend Code Tax Abatement Reports Chairperson Henry Davis, Jr., opened the hearing with a full committee and one of two citizen members present to hear three bills on the agenda. The first Bill No. 12 -27 is a request for the Council to accept an amendment to the Central Redevelopment Area. This proposed boundary change was presented by Bill Schalliol from Redevelopment which initiated the request. Using a handout, Bill described the addition as part of the former Gates Chevy dealership property on Western Avenue near downtown. Citizen Member Pat Crowley asked if the property the city proposed to acquire met EPA standards. Mr. Schalliol said this was not a concern. Henry Davis vigorously stated the city did not appear to have an overall strategy or development plan for the area. He said it appeared the city was making it up as it went and was "too quick" to acquire parcels, taking them off the tax rolls with no apparent plan for their use. Schalliol said the city needed to take advantage of opportunities as they are presented. Subsequently Councilmember Gavin Ferlic motioned the bill be forwarded favorably. Dr. Ferlic seconded and all except Councilmember Henry Davis supported. The next bill, 12 -06, also sponsored by the city would encourage the establishment of a Riverfront Development District. Aaron Perri, the Director of Downtown South Bend explained the need for and benefits of focusing on riverfront development. Henry Davis, a long -time proponent of a strategic plan cited the success of similar plans in other Indiana communities. Aaron Perri acknowledged and welcomed Henry's advocacy. Henry urged the plan should be formed through collaboration and participation. Councilmember Karen White motioned favorably. Councilmember Dr. Fred Ferlic seconded an all affirmed.