2005 Annual Report - South Bend Common Council Residential Neighborhoods Committee

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, j 144 On November 10, 2005 the committee sponsored a "plunge"to all five NPC(s) in the city. A TRANSPO Trolley was hired to transport participants to the centers from the County-City building. The plunge allowed the committee and participants to visit each center to get a "hands-on feel"for the work and activities taking place at each center. On November 15, 2005 all 5 of the NPC(s) were asked to make a presentation at the informal committee room on the 4th floor of the County- City building to describe their projects and their goals and objectives for 2006. Much dialogue and interaction took place, various brochures produced by some of the standing committees were provided for each NPC to share with neighborhood residents. Committee members and NPC participants expressed their appreciation. These two events allowed the committee to fulfill its responsibility in accordance with the municipal code, This council adopted the South Bend Commission on the Social Status of Black Males (SBCSSBM) in January of 1998.The SBCSSBM has not been active for a considerable period of time. Currently, discussion is taking place on the possibility of reactivating the commission. If the commission is reactivated it will need the continued support of the Common Council. Part of that support will require some oversight from this council. Given the very nature of the commission, I would like to go on record as recommending this committee be charged with that responsibility. In conclusion; 2005 was a banner year for the Residential Neighborhoods Committee, hosting a plunge and observing the work of the Neighborhood Partnership Centers, researching specific issues related to quality neighborhoods and participating in high profile rezoning/neighborhood issues. By submitting the recommendations contained in this report the committee is "plowing new ground." 2006 will offer an opportunity to plant proactive seeds to review policy and procedures for establishing Neighborhood Associations, collaborative partnership with the Community Development Division and a challenge to the Common Council to play a vital role in the continued existence of the South Bend Commission on the Social Status of Black Males through the Residential Neighborhoods Committee by doing these things a plentiful harvest can reaped in future years. I would be remiss if I did not recognize the help and assistance of our Council Attorney Kathleen Cekanski-Farrand. The entire committee appreciates her work. Finally, I am appreciative of the opportunity to have served on this committee. Respectfully Submitted,4. Timothy A. use, 2005 Chairman Residential Neighborhoods committee Filed In Clerk's Office DEG 1 2 2005 JOHN VOORDE CffY CLERK,SO.BEND,114