HomeMy WebLinkAbout02/26/07 Community and Economic Development Committee MinutesCOMMUNITYAND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
February 25, 2007
Present:
Councilmember Dieter, Chairperson
Cauncilmember Kelly, Vice-Chairperson
Coucilmember Puzzella
Councilmember White
Phil Panzica, Citizen Member
Marty Wolfson, Citizen Member
Bill Schalliol, Community & Economic Development
Phil Byrd, South Bend Heritage
Dan Inks, Economic Development
Consideration of Bill 07-37, a Tax Abatement Petition for the new downtown Trio's
Restaurantllazz Bar began with a positive recommendation from Bill Schalliol, from the
City's Economic Development Department. He introduced Herb Wilson, one of two
principals in the venture, who proceeded to describe what Trio's will be. It will divided
into three sections, a 9b seat restaurant featuring moderately priced American fare, a 93
seat jazz bar, and a 110 seat banquet area. The abatement request seemed to be routinely
sailing through committee toward a favorable recommendation to full Council when
Marty Wnlfsnn interjected. He suggested a moratorium on tax abatements until the effect
of "circuit breaker" is known. President Rouse agreed; but expressed concern that a pre-
emptive suspension would send the wrong message to developers. Karen White voiced
concerns echoing those of President Rouse while noting the need to assess the impact of
any policy changes. Charlotte Pfeifer agreed. Gary Gilot, Public Works Director,
suggested no changes, be considered until the legislature's actions are evaluated. Marty
Wolfson still advocated a moratorium. Charlotte said companies applying far benefits
need to be aware of their responsibilities. Tim Rouse voiced concerns about fairness of
treatment far those in the appiicatinn pipeline. Charlotte motioned that Bill No. 07-37 get
a favorable recommendation. Karen seconded. All affirmed save Marty.
NEND Presentution:
Don Inks, Director, Economic Development, introduced, Phil Byrd from South Bend
Heritage to give the Council an update on the development in the NNE as a result of
partnership with Notre Dame. His presentation can be referenced in detail using his
handout subsequently filed with the City Clerk's office comprising a development
standards book. as well as 2 DVD's. A question and answer period followed the updated.
Charlotte Pfeifer asked who the builders were and whether the city was sensitive to
encouraging minority builders. The most incisive discussion was prompted by President
Rouse and strongly echoed by both Councilmember's Pfeifer and White; that being the
subject of TIP (Tax Incremental Finance) districts. The Councilmember's want to know
who determines TIP boundaries, the duration of a TIF District, and a host of other
questions. Dan Inks promised an answer to those questions and more at the March 10
TIF 101 Session.
Councilmember Dieter adjourned the meeting at 4:10 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
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Derek D. Dieter, Chairperson
Community and Economic Development Committee