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CITY OF SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING – January 8, 2026 <br /> <br />Page | 10 <br /> <br />• New ADA-compliant curb ramps <br />• A marked crosswalk (currently, students use an unmarked mid-block <br />crossing) <br />• A small curb ramp on the south side <br /> <br />The roadway, which is in poor condition, will be resurfaced as part of the <br />road portion of the project. On the west side of Springbrook, we’ll <br />replace the low sidewalk and add a curb. We’ll also remove an old tennis <br />court, which is now just an asphalt pad. <br /> <br />Regarding property ownership, we’re using assumed property lines for <br />this project. Mr. Tebell has been working with Deputy Director Jitin Kain <br />and the school to correct records at the Recorder’s Office. This will <br />require surveying, but we expect no issues as the project moves forward. <br />Sue Kesim expressed her concerns. <br /> <br />President Warner agreed that this needs to be fixed and there are safety <br />issues regardless of where the funds come from. Mr. Tebell stated that <br />the bid needs to be awarded at the next Board of Public Works meeting <br />and the allocation has increased. Mr. Warner also explained that if we <br />weren’t capturing this TIF money, a small portion—just a few percent of <br />property taxes in this TIF—would go to the schools. That’s why the state <br />legislature required a school board representative to be included: so, <br />schools have a voice and can advocate for using TIF funds on resources <br />that benefit them. I believe this is something that needs to be done. <br /> <br />Vice President Relos also stated that it feels unfair to single out the <br />school for costs on a citywide safety project. We don’t do this with the <br />library, zoo, or airport, and that money could support education instead. <br /> <br />Commissioner Wax stated that he appreciates the staff’s effort to find <br />funding and the school corporation’s cooperation. While we aim to <br />support essential improvements citywide, we typically share costs with <br />property owners and work collaboratively, not taking over projects <br />unilaterally. <br /> <br />Commissioner Ellison commented that this project benefits the entire <br />community, not just the schools. While most land is city-owned, the <br />school’s contribution helps ensure it gets done. The design addresses <br />safety concerns without major parking changes, and adjustments can be <br />made later if needed. Let’s move forward today. <br /> <br />Commissioner Gooden-Rodgers inquired about what will happen if the <br />funding from the School Corporation does not get approved. Mr. Kain <br />responded to Commissioner Gooden-Rodgers’ question that he has been