09-09-02 Community & Economic Development

Home Browse Search

Community and Economic Development Committee September 9, 2002 Page 2 are seventeen(17) lots with fourteen(14) lots already being designated. Dr. Varner noted that there has almost been five years since the 1st abatement was issued, and he urged the Petitioner to make sure that those receiving the initial residential tax abatement are aware that their tax status will change. Council Member Kirsits thanked Mr. Johnston for his presentation and noted that because a quorum was not present that the Committee would not take any formal action. A formal vote would be taken at tonight's Common Council meeting. Council Member Kirsits then called for a presentation on Bill No. 02-68 which is a three (3) year real property tax abatement for RJR 1 LLC for the property located at 3820 William Richardson Drive and Bill No. 02-69 which is a five (5) year personal property tax abatement request for RJR 1 LLC for the property located at 3820 William Richardson Drive. Mr. Beitzinger then reviewed his September 4,2002 report(copy attached). The petitioner is a real estate holding company and FDC Graphic Films is the operating entity. FDC converts pressure sensitive films for the sign/graphics industry. The petitioner plans to construct a 13,000 square foot addition and FDC will purchase various new vinyl converting machines. The building cost will be $425,000 and the equipment cost will be $200,00. Four (4) new permanent jobs will be created in the 1st year and twelve (12) new jobs are projected to be created for a three-year period. 38 current jobs will be maintained. Mr. Beitzinger concluded his remarks by noting that the Petitioner meed the applicable provisions of the South Bend Municipal Code, namely § 2-82 and § 2-84.2 for the requested tax abatements. Richard A. Rupsis, Sr. and Judith A. Eck, members of RJR 1 LLC then made a presentation requesting the real and personal tax abatements for their operations. They noted that seven (7) years ago they re-located their operations from Chicago, and they are glad to now be putting on an addition to their building. Their addition was delayed in light of 9/11, however now they have decided to go forward with the City's assistance. In response to a question from Council Member Kirsits, Mr. Rupsis noted that the pressure sensitive films are sold and distributed throughout the United States. Council Member Kirsits thanked Mr. Rupsis and Ms. Eck for their presentation and noted that because a quorum was not present that the Committee would not take any formal action. A formal vote would be taken at tonight's Common Council meeting. Council Member Kirsits then called for a presentation on Bill No. 02-70 which would authorize the Mayor to submit an application to the Indiana Development Finance Authority for a grant from the Petroleum Remediation Grant Incentive Program. Senior Redevelopment Specialist Ann E. Kolata made the presentation. She noted that the 2001 Indiana Legislature authorized the PRGI program for remediation of petroleum contamination in brownfield sites. The maximum grant is$250,000 and may only be used for a single project. The City's application will focus on the southern portion of Buildings 86 and 93 at the former Allied Products Stamping plant. She further noted that a total of $9 million is set aside in a petroleum trust fund. The application was submitted last Thursday and she will keep the Council updated on the application status.