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• <br /> favor of this request. Both see the Catholic Worker Drop-In Center as complimentary to their <br /> operations. He noted that there were remonstrators at the BZA meeting however he believes that <br /> all of their concerns have been addressed. He added that there would not be any overnights <br /> initially at this location. He stated that he sees this project as a "win/win" and that the City of <br /> South Bend would not have any financial role in this operation. <br /> Council President Pfeifer voiced concern about the Catholic Workers operations on West <br /> Washington Street. She stated that she believes that they are operating illegally there, and as a <br /> result are disrespecting the neighborhood. She stated that up to 50 people have been in the yard, <br /> and cited vagrancy problems. She further stated that she does not see the Catholic Workers as <br /> taking responsibility of their clients. Council Member Pfeifer stated that she does not trust what <br /> the Catholic Workers say. <br /> Mr. Nemeth stated that the Main Street location would not have a residential component. <br /> Council President Pfeifer requested that that be put in writing. <br /> Council Member Rouse inquired whether they are planning to close the West Washington <br /> operations. He also inquired about taking responsibility for their clientele. <br /> Mr. Nemeth stated that the Catholic Worker of Michiana have been working with the City <br /> Administration to address all concerns regarding their operations on West Washington. They are <br /> working on eliminating any problems at those locations. <br /> Council President Pfeifer noted that they were in the 4th District and she understands that it was <br /> poorly run. <br /> Michael J. Baxter of the Catholic Worker of Michiana have welcomed persons to his home at <br /> 1126 West Washington where they can shower and do laundry during the day. He stated that in <br /> response to a neighborhood meeting they have cut the amount of people permitted by one-half <br /> which should alleviate the difficulties. He noted that representatives from the Homeless Shelter <br /> will be here tonight to address the Council in favor of this special exception. <br /> Council Member Kelly inquired whether the petitioners would be willing to put something in <br /> writing that they agree to run the Main Street operation in a professional manner. <br /> Mr. Baxter stated that they are serving a very diverse individuals who are homeless. They are <br /> helping to facilitate them by plugging them into social agency services. Their operations are <br /> informal by nature. <br /> Dr. Varner inquired about the hours of operation, to which Mr. Baxter stated that they do not <br /> have stated hours. He noted that they operate during the day, and have patterned their operation <br /> after one operating in Phoenix, Arizona. He stressed that personal contact with such individuals <br /> helps alot. <br /> Mr. Nemeth added that opaque fencing would also be installed if the request is granted. <br /> Council Member Rouse inquired whether this operation fits into the plan for the downtown. <br /> June 13,2005 Zoning and Annexation Committee of the 2005 South Bend Common Council -page 2- <br />