11.25.24 RDC Full Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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CITY OF SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING – November 14, 2024 5 David Michael and Rex Weaver with Stoic Distillery explained that they will be committed to the community with hosting fundraising events and partnering with local vendors to provide Stoic with everything to produce their products. Mr. Weaver stated that he has over 10 years of experience in distilling and Mr. Michael has contractor and mechanical engineering experience to help with the renovations. Commissioner Relos asked if they’d purchased the distilling equipment and Mr. Michael stated that it's already in the building. President Warner asked about kitchen services. Mr. Michael stated that they have restaurant experience and there will be a commercial kitchen and will serve a limited menu of grilled cheese sandwiches as well as salads and soups. He stated that it will be a family-friendly environment with games and music. Commissioner Sallie asked about how many jobs they anticipate creating. Mr. Michael stated 25-30 people at full capacity. Tiernan Kane, project lead for Unity LLC, shared his opposition to the proposal choice. He shared his vision for the site and asked the Commissioners to not make their decision today. Caleb Bauer, Executive Director of Community Investment, stated that this doesn't necessarily preclude agreements between private property owners. Therefore, if Stoic Distilling Co. chose to become part of a larger development in the future, a purchase agreement between the private entities could occur without involving the Commission, though it might still need the Commission's approval for the development agreement. Mr. Bauer did not see a reason to delay a viable project without clear evidence of financing for a compelling vision. Tina Patton, Jonathan Boulos, Gabriella Girgis, Matt Barrett, Kim Kennedy, Monica McDaniels, and Zach Coddington were against making the decision today. David Michael, Rex Weaver, Regina Emberton, and staff asked the Commission to approve the purchase agreement. Upon a motion by Troy Warner to table the decision until the next meeting, second by Vivian Sallie, the motion was opposed by David Relos; the Commission will table the Purchase Agreement as presented on November 14, 2024. 6. Resolution No. 3619 (Authorizing Staff Sherrif Sale Bid) Joseph Molnar, Asst. Director of Growth and Opportunity, presented the Sheriff's Office holding periodic auctions for properties, both land and buildings as well as other items and some of those properties are on the River West acquisition list. The Resolution authorizes certain staff to bid at auction and may only do so with the express approval of the Executive Director. After the auction, staff must report back to the Redevelopment Commission regarding any bids made on their behalf