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CITY OF SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING – January 22, 2026 <br /> <br />Page | 8 <br /> <br /> <br />Commissioner Shaw asked the question, how are businesses prioritized <br />when there are far more applicants than available spots. Ms. Jones <br />explained that the 800 applications represent four years of submissions, <br />with about 100 last year. Previously, the program supported anyone <br />starting a business, but this year it prioritizes businesses that align with <br />City purchasing needs and can create measurable impact. There is no <br />race or gender consideration—the program is open to any small, local <br />business in South Bend. Demographic questions remain on the <br />application only for historical data purposes. <br /> <br />Joseph Molnar, Assistant Director of Growth and Opportunity, wanted <br />to clarify, “These funds come specifically from the Pokagon South Bend <br />Fund, which is tied to the City’s agreement with the Four Winds Casino. <br />The agreement states that these dollars must support initiatives that <br />improve educational opportunities and address poverty and <br />unemployment in the city. These funds are separate from our standard <br />TIF resources, and I wanted to make that distinction clear for the public.” <br /> <br />Upon a motion by Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers for approval, seconded by <br />Gillian Shaw, the motion carried unanimously; the Commission approved <br />the Budget Request as presented on January 22, 2026. <br /> <br />6. Progress Reports <br />A. Tax Abatement <br />None <br /> <br />B. Common Council <br />None <br /> <br />C. Update – Ivy Alley <br />Joseph Molnar, Assistant Director of Growth and Opportunity, stated that <br />we will give an update at the February 12, 2026 meeting. <br /> <br />7. Next Commission Meeting <br />Thursday, February 12, 2026, 9:30 a.m., City Hall Council Chambers 3rd Floor <br /> <br />8. Adjournment <br />Thursday, January 22, 2026, 10:11 a.m. <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br />______________________________ ______________________________ <br />Eli Wax, Secretary Troy Warner, President