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CITY OF SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING – December 11, 2025 <br /> <br />Page | 5 <br /> <br />Mark Neal with the Bradley Co. also explained that the owner has been <br />carefully monitoring activity throughout the city to ensure that any <br />future plans complement both the hotel and the new apartments within <br />the building. At the same time, the goal is to add something that aligns <br />with other developments downtown. This cautious approach reflects a <br />desire to create a use that is truly complementary. Discussions have <br />included retail concepts, food and hospitality options, and even a <br />potential showcase space. For now, the primary focus remains on <br />completing the apartments, which has been a significant undertaking <br />given the scope of the project. As noted, the owner has already invested <br />over $20 million into this expansion and wants to proceed thoughtfully— <br />measuring twice and cutting once—before moving into the next phase. <br /> <br />Secretary Wax noted that the 7th-floor event space was originally <br />included to qualify for public participation in the project. Caleb Bauer, <br />Executive Director of Community Investment, explained that while the <br />event space was one aspect of public benefit, a publicly accessible <br />commercial space could also meet that requirement. He added that <br />adding more housing downtown provides significant public benefit by <br />increasing population and economic activity. Secretary Wax emphasized <br />that the original intent was to include a feature for public use, not just <br />private apartments or high-end retail. He supports flexibility in the plan <br />but wants to ensure any changes remain consistent with the original <br />vision. <br /> <br />President Warner asked if a six-month extension is enough time for the <br />commercial or public-use space to be developed? I understand the <br />agreement doesn’t require space to have tenants by then, but I’m curious <br />about whether that timeline is realistic. Mr. Molnar explained the <br />commercial space has an 18-month extension, giving them ample time to <br />ensure everything is done right. Commissioner Wax also asked for <br />updates and Mr. Molnar is happy to do that. <br /> <br />Vice President Relos asked about the restaurant that used to exist in the <br />basement, Mr. Sime stated, aside from some hotel services and the <br />fitness center, there’s no longer a food and beverage concept in the <br />basement. However, the hotel offers an excellent made-to-order <br />breakfast on the main level, along with food from the WXYZ kitchen for <br />the bar. With this development, there are also discussions about <br />introducing additional food and beverage options. The Summit Club will <br />not be returning, and the 26th floor has been converted into apartments. <br /> <br />Upon a motion by David Relos for approval, seconded by Eli Wax, the <br />motion carried unanimously; the Commission approved the Amendment <br />as presented on December 11, 2025.