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CITY OF SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING – March 27, 2025 <br /> <br />5 <br /> <br />Michigan Street. The buildings are known as the former Hope Rescue <br />Mission and the Monarch Building respectively. Both buildings have <br />been long-vacant and unused. The developers have envisioned <br />transforming the two buildings and the vacant lot between them as <br />Milkweed Commons. The end results will be 15 small businesses’ <br />commercial spaces, a community kitchen, and a food market. <br /> <br />The proposed agreement commits the Developer to expending a <br />minimum of $2.2 million on the restoration of the property. The <br />proposed agreement commits the Redevelopment Commission to <br />expend no more than $350,000 to aid in the redevelopment of the <br />property including primarily replacement and installation of new roofs <br />on the two buildings. Mr. Molnar also shared a slide of the numerous <br />new developments the City is involved in South of downtown. <br /> <br />Charity Stowe from Empowerher Development LLC stated that Hertoric <br />Development is actively working in Monroe Park. She explained that <br />they have rehabilitated several residential properties, which are now <br />being rented out at affordable rates. They are thrilled to be part of this <br />initiative, led by women-owned developers, revitalizing this corner of <br />the city. Vice President Relos asked if they owned the lot between the <br />two buildings. Ms. Stowe confirmed that they do, as well as the lot <br />north of the Monarch building. She mentioned plans to include a stage <br />for music events, a public restroom, seating, and urban farming. <br /> <br />Secretary Wax inquired about plans to manage the unhoused <br />population. Ms. Stowe responded that they have a phased plan in <br />place, which includes installing fences soon. They are also working <br />with Code Enforcement and the Police Department to ensure this <br />remains a walkable community space. Vice President Relos inquired <br />about the funds from the RDC. Ms. Stowe explained that the back roof <br />of the Monarch building needs to be replaced, and the Hope building <br />requires roof work, a 50-foot skylight, and some terracotta repairs. <br />Secretary Wax asked about the project's timeline. Ms. Stowe stated <br />that they expect to close on the Monarch building in May, with <br />construction anticipated to take six months. The Hope building, being <br />larger and needing more work, is projected to be completed by 2027. <br />Mr. Molnar also mentioned that with the $2.2 million investment, the <br />city is aiming to achieve some form of occupancy in each building as <br />part of this development agreement. Beth Weber (virtual) spoke in <br />favor of the project. Murray Miller inquired about plans to hire local <br />contractors for the construction work. Ms. Stowe responded that all the <br />construction will be carried out by local women and minority-owned <br />companies. Commissioner Shaw asked about the target of the 15 <br />business spaces across the two buildings and Ms. Stowe stated they <br />will be focused on food centric businesses.