08-08-05 Community & Economic Development

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r , Bernie Feeney of Lang, Feeney & Associates with offices located in downtown South Bend made the presentation. He noted that the property has remained idle and undeveloped for over ten(10)years. Council Member Puzzello suggested that a better location map be provided in the future. In response to a question from Council Member Kuspa, Mr. Feeney noted that sales in the area have been"soft" however tax abatement has made a significant difference in the 1st Section of the development. Mr. Feeney added in response to a concern raised by Council Member Kelly that the area did have problems in the past with some modular homes from the previous developer. However the homes now are stick built and one or two 2-story upper-end modular homes. Council Member Kelly made a motion, seconded by Council Member Kirsits that Bill No. 05-99 be recommended favorably to Council. The motion passed. Council Member Puzzello then called for a report on Bill No. 05-100 which is a request for a five (5) year residential real property tax abatement for Near Northwest Neighborhood. Inc. for the property located at 624 Cottage Grove. Tedd Schaffer reviewed his report dated August 3, 2005 (copy attached). He noted that the petitioner proposes to construct one (1) home of 1,120 to 1,300 square feet with a value of $95,000 on the property. The report concluded that the petitioner meets the requirements for a five year residential tax abatement under Section 2-77.1 of the South Bend Municipal Code addressing single-family real property abatements. Karen C. Ainsley of 1007 Portage Avenue in South Bend made the presentation. She noted that they own ten(10) properties and that two (2)have been developed. This property would have a story& 1/2 constructed on it to improve the neighborhood. Council Member Kelly made a motion, seconded by Council Member Kirsits that Bill No. 05-100 be recommended favorably to Council. The motion passed. Council Member Puzzello then called for a report on Bill No. 05-101 which is a resolution requesting a waiver of the required filing date of May 15, 2002 and acceptance of the deduction application of the late filing of deduction application for the new manufacturing equipment for O-T-D Corporation located at 3722 Foundation Drive. Tedd Schaffer reviewed his report dated August 1,2005 which sets forth detailed information on the 5-year personal property tax abatement approved on May 11, 1998 and subsequent events (copy attached). E. Jean Chapman, Controller of O-T-D Corporation with offices located at 1435 Industrial Drive made the presentation. She reviewed the reasons for the request noting in particular that the Chief Financial Officer suffered a stroke and that documentation was retained in his Hinsdale, Illinois office. The company has attempted to carry out its due diligence requirements and are requesting the Council's assistance. August 8,2005 Community and Economic Development Committee Meeting Minutes -page 2-