03-14-2022 Common Council Meeting Minutes (Signed)

Home Browse Search

REGULAR MEETING March 14. 2022 Dan Parker responded that evaluations had been undertaken for other buildings, to renovate the existing building, or to perform a new build. Councilmember Henry Davis Jr. responded that he would appreciate having this information. President Sharon L. McBride stated she spoke with St. Joseph County Commissioner Kostielney and Council President Morton. They noted that this is an opportunity to utilize the extra space if South Bend vacated the building. Councilmember Canneth Lee asked how many parking spaces are available at the building. Dan Parker responded that the School Corporation currently leases one hundred twenty-five (125) spaces. Councilmember Canneth Lee stated that the city currently pays six hundred and twenty-five thousand dollars ($625,000) to rent the city hall building rather than owning a building. Reverend Henry L. Davis Sr., 215 N Sheridan Street, South Bend, Indiana, spoke in opposition to Bill No. 08-22. He stated he is a taxpayer, and it seems there is money unaccounted for somewhere. He asked about the mortgage for the building. Dan Parker responded that the acquisition and renovation would be funded in cash. The ongoing operational costs are for utilities. The School Corporation put seven million dollars ($7,000,000) into the building in 2005, but that is not the value of the building today. Councilmember Eli Wax asked if there were any moving costs and if this would be a separate appropriation. Dan Parker responded that moving costs are included in the five -million -dollar ($5,000,000) renovation budget. Councilmember Troy Warner stated that there would be fifty percent (50%) more square footage for less money. The building is cramped. Vice President Sheila Niezgodski stated that there had been discussions on a new city hall building for a long time. Councilmember Henry Davis Jr. stated that Council is here to ask questions and ensure they are doing their fiduciary duty for citizens. Councilmember Rachel Tomas Morgan made a motion to send Bill No. 08-22 to the Full Council with a favorable recommendation. Vice President Sheila Niezgodski seconded the motion, which carried by a voice vote of seven (7) ayes. Councilmember Henry Davis Jr. against. RISE AND REPORT Councilmember Eli Wax made a motion to rise and report to the full Council. Councilmember Troy Warner seconded the motion, which carried by a voice vote of eight (8) ayes. REGULAR MEETING RECONVENED Be it remembered that the Common Council of the City of South Bend reconvened in the Council Chambers on the fourth floor of the County -City building at 8:45 p.m. President Sharon L. McBride presided with eight (8) members present. BILLS — THIRD READING BILL NO. 08-22 THIRD READING ON AN ORDINANCE OF THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF THE. SOUTH BEND, INDIANA, 4