07-10-14 Redevelopment Commission Minutes

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South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting—July 10, 2014 6. NEW BUSINESS A. South Bend Central Development Area (1) Corporate Warranty Deed for Lot Lettered "B" as shown on the recorded Plat of Monroe-Sample Replat. Mr. Zeeb noted that Curtis Products moved from its Monroe Park location to the former Bosch facility. They are trying to get their Monroe Park property ready to sell. They came across the fact that the Redevelopment Commission still owns Lot B. The Redevelopment Commission had an agreement with them in 1994-1995 that when their building expansion was completed, the Commission would deed Lot B to Curtis Products. The building expansion was completed, but that conveyance never took place. This Warranty Deed conveys Lot B to Curtis Products. Upon a motion by Mr. Inks, seconded by Mr. Downes and unanimously carried, the Commission approved the Corporate Warranty Deed for Lot Lettered "B" as shown on the recorded Plat of Monroe-Sample Replat. (Curtis Products) B. Airport Economic Development Area (1) Waiver of the Right of Redemption by and between the South Bend Redevelopment Commission and the Statutory Heirs of Louise Franklin. (1509 S. Kendall St.) Mr. Relos noted that staff has been trying to buy this property for a number of years. In 2011 the Commission approved an administrative settlement for the acquisition of 1509 S. Kendall St. Since that time, staff has been trying to acquire and close on the property, which is one of two remaining properties yet to be acquired west of Scott St. in the Ignition Park South expansion area. The property belongs to the estate of Louise Franklin, eight heirs in all. Taxes were not being paid on the property and in March 2014 staff was authorized to bid on the property through the County Commissioner's tax sale. A tax sale certificate was acquired. Part of the tax sale process includes a 120-day redemption period. Because the eight heirs could likely redeem the property, discussions were held with their attorney to come to an agreement whereby they would not redeem the property, and the Commission would honor its commitment to pay the previously agreed upon settlement amount. From the settlement amount the heirs agreed to deduct an amount owed their attorney, past due and pro-rated property taxes, and any liens not cleared by the tax sale process. The net amount would then be split evenly between them. No payment will be made until it can be verified the property was not redeemed, and a title commitment indicates there is clean title to the property. Staff requests approval of this Waiver of Right of Redemption, which may finally allow the acquisition of this property. Ms. Schey noted that the family came to the Common Council asking for its intervention in the price to be paid for the property. She asked if this settlement is agreeable to the family 3