11-14-05 Zoning & Annexation - Laserfiche WebLink

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including a roofing company which is next door to the subject property; "The Patch" (barber shop and groceries), mixed-use zoning, West Washington Place (all multi-family), unoccupied Hansel Center, Osborn Apartments,Natatorium (empty) and the vacant funeral home. He also provided a one-page handout entitled"Catholic Worker Presentation-brief outline of pts related specifically to zoning" (copy attached). A letter dated November 11, 2005 in support of the request from Bishop John M. D'Arcy of the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend was also presented(copy attached). At this time, Council Member Dieter joined the meeting, and as a result a quorum was now present. A letter dated November 14,2005 from Rev. Theodore M. Hesburgh,C.S.C.,President Emeritus of the University of Notre Dame (copy attached) was presented to the Committee. The letter among other things voiced support for the rezoning and noted that the woman caring for Father Ted formerly lived at the Catholic Worker House. In response to questions from Council Member Rouse, it was noted that the Catholic Worker House was willing to abide by the commitments presented and would be open to others suggested by the Committee. Dinner would be provided for just those individuals who live at the location; and that there would not be street people coming in for meals. It was noted that St. Augustine's has over 200 people attend their soup kitchen. Council President Pfeifer noted that the current zoning calls for no more than two (2) unrelated individuals residing at the location,and if granted there could be eight(8). Building Commissioner Don Fozo stated that some mis-information came from his office. He stated that 200 square feet per person are required for a residence zoning single-family, and that a group residence falls within the dormitory classification which requires 50 square feet per person for occupant load purposes and would permit 33. He added that the property is now SF-2. Mr. Griffith stated that they could have used Section E, if the building was to be used for religious purposes; and that a Building Department employee said they would not have to apply. He stated that they wish to remain small and would not have more than five (5) residents and two(2) staff members. Council President Pfeifer inquired whether the Catholic Workers have two (2) other dwellings in the area. Mr. Griffith stated they have one next door to the subject property and one across the street. In response to a question from Council Member Dieter, Mr. Griffith stated that they are not approaching this from a"religious angle" at this time,but are focusing on zoning. Council Member Rouse asked Mr. Fozo if he could verify the religious purposes exception referred to by Mr. Griffith. Mr. Fozo stated that he could not verify it one way or the other, however in their meetings they have focused on zoning. November 14,2005 Zoning and Annexation Committee of the 2005 South Bend Common Council -Page 4 of 7-