12-13-12 Redevelopment Commission Minutes

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South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting—December 13, 2012 6. NEW BUSINESS B. South Bend Central Development Area (2) continued... exceeded the performance measures that were set out with the exception of the revenue side. The overall appearance of the garages and customer hospitality has improved greatly. DTSB has also successfully managed the complete automation of all three parking garages, as well as the new on-street handheld parking enforcement equipment. The city is in the process of installing new energy efficient lighting in the Main St. and Wayne St. garages. DTSB will facilitate the installation. Staff requests approval to renew the Agreement for an additional two years, commencing February 1, 2013 and ending January 31, 2015. Mr. Downes asked what the Agreement's revenue projection is for 2013. Mr. Inks responded that, typically, DTSB or the provider is involved in acquiring the estimates; historically it's been based on what was done last year, anticipating changes that might occur. The income projection is not arbitrary, but is based on past performance and expectations going forward. Mr. Downes asked whether the new performance measures would be set for two years, or just one year at a time. Mr. Inks responded that it is a two year agreement, so the indicators are for two years. Mr. Downes noted that DTSB recommended in its first proposal improved signage for the garages. He asked if they intended to continue to invest in additional signage. Mr. Downes thought one of the problems with increasing revenue is that people don't know the garages are available. Mr. Inks responded that they will continue to invest in signage. Mr. Downes also asked whether DTSB will do a number of customer surveys in early 2013. Ms. Jennings noted that DTSB are required to do two surveys per year. Mr. Vamer asked whether the 91.2% occupancy rate is based on monthly parkers. He wondered, particularly, where any increase in parkers would come from. Mr. Inks responded that the 91.2% is the occupancy from monthly parkers. DTSB is exploring the idea of implementing some part time rates for downtown employees that have part-time jobs—those who try to get away with on-street parking. Instead of charging$40 per month, they would charge $15 - $20 per month. It would not only increase the occupancy,but the revenue as well. Ms. Jones noted that recently when she has been downtown over the weekend, the gates of the Leighton Garage have been down. They used to be up all weekend. She asked why that would be. Ms. Jennings said she would look into it and report back. 5