11-25-2024 South Bend Common Council Meeting Minutes

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REGULAR MEETING November 25, 2024 opportunities and a revitalized historic landmark. Jasmine Bradley, petitioner, 1143 East Ireland Road, #1077 South Bend, IN 46614, representing 530 South Michigan Street in South Bend, stated that the development project is part of a larger block initiative where the original developer of the Monarch, along with the partner, is working on the development of an in-between lot. Together, they are creating a healthy food hub which will house a collective of farmers and vendors. The goal is to provide a shared commercial kitchen space and a marketplace where local farmers and vendors can offer fresh food and hot meals. The project aims to provide affordable space for entrepreneurs to grow their businesses while increasing food access in the community. The space will accept SNAP, WIC, and other assistance programs to ensure affordability for all customers. Council President McBride requested that Chief Ruszkowski bring the media back into the chambers to cover the Bill. Council President McBride also asked the petitioner to repeat her story and the message behind the bill. Jasmine Bradley repeated the presentation. Council President McBride expressed her excitement and gratitude for the petitioner's investment in her community to bring access to clean and reliable food sources. Councilmember White congratulated the petitioner on her work to bring healthy affordable food into food desserts, and her ability to work with other developers. Councilmember Dr. Davis congratulated the petitioner's project, highlighting its significance as a source of hope for the community, especially in a blighted area. Councilmember Dr. Davis emphasized the importance of entrepreneurs, women, and the City. Councilmember Bolden-Simpson expressed pride in the project, praising the petitioner for bringing hope to the community, especially in an area that previously lacked it. Councilmember Bolden-Simpson thanked the petitioner for taking a chance on South Bend and encouraged them to continue their efforts. Councilmember Warner commented on a redevelopment project where new houses are being built on Johnson Street and Orange Street, in a neighborhood that hadn't seen new construction in decades. Councilmember Warner expressed gratitude for the project's potential to revitalize a neglected area. Councilmember Lee thanked the petitioner for her investment in this area, he asked what inspired her to choose this concept for the project. Jasmine Bradley shared her background in education and food, explaining their work as a social worker and psychologist since arriving in South Bend in 2013. Jasmine Bradley highlighted their passion for youth and community development, particularly in food entrepreneurship. The partnership came together to create a space for food entrepreneurs and to train young people in business. Additionally, the project emphasizes food access, with a focus on healthy, affordable options.As a vegan chef,the petitioner aims to inspire others to create delicious,plant-based dishes while promoting local farmers and making fresh food more accessible. Councilmember Gooden-Rodgers congratulated the petitioner on their commitment to improving the community. Councilmember Gooden Rodgers encouraged the petitioner to continue their work and hoped it would inspire other young people to pursue their own visions. Council President McBride opened the public hearing. Jorden Giger,302 S. Falcon Street, South Bend,IN 46619,thanked Jasmine Bradley for presenting her vision and shared how they first learned about her project through a consultant. Jorden Giger expressed excitement about the expansion and asked if Jasmine Bradley was receiving tax incentives on TIF funding. Joe Molnar explained that the first(1')step is a tax abatement for the property,which would reduce both current and future taxes after renovations. The City has supported Jasmine Bradley's participation in an application for the Indiana's READI Two-Point-Zero (2.0) Program, as well as 11