HomeMy WebLinkAbout09/24/07 Council Meeting MinutesREGULAR MEETING
SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
Be it remembered that the Common Council of the City of South Bend, Indiana met in
the Council Chambers of the County-City Building on Monday, September 24, 2007 at
7:00 p.m. The meeting was called to order by Council President Rouse and the
Invocation and Pledge to the Flag were given.
ROLL CALL
COUNCILMEMBERS:
Present: Derek D. Dieter
Roland "Randy" Kelly
Ann Puzzello
David Varner
Ervin Kuspa
Al "Buddy" Kirsits
Timothy Rouse
Karen L. White
1st District
3rd District
4th District Vice-President
5th District
6th District
At-Large
At-Large President
At-Large Chairperson Committee of the Whole
Absent: Charlotte Pfeifer
OTHERS PRESENT:
2nd District
John Voorde City Clerk
Mary Beth Wisniewski Chief Deputy
Janice L Talboom Deputy City Clerk
Kathleen Cekanski-Farrand Council Attorney
REPORT FROM THE SUB-COMMITTEE ON MINUTES
To the Common Council of the City of South Bend: The sub-committee has inspected
the minutes of the September 10, 2007 meeting of the Council and found them to be
correct.
Therefore, we recommend the same be approved.
s/Timothy A. Rouse
s/David Varner
Councilmember Puzzello made a motion that the minutes of the September 10, 2007
meeting of the Council be accepted and placed on file. Councilmember Dieter seconded
the motion which carried by a voice vote of eight (8) ayes.
SPECIAL BUSINESS
WELCOME BOY SCOUT TROUP # 173 -GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
Council President Timothy Rouse welcomed Boy Scout Troup # 173 from Grace United
Methodist Church. He stated that he was honored to have them here tonight and glad to
see the future leaders of our community participating at tonight's Council meeting.
BILL NO. 07-119 A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA, PUBLICLY
COMMENDING AND HONORING MARK O'DELL, A
SENIOR AT WASHINGTON HIGH SCHOOL FOR
SCORING A PERFECT SCORE ON THE SAT
REASONING TEST
REGULAR MEETING
SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
Councilmember Puzzello made a motion to continue this bill to the October 8, 2007,
meeting of the Council. Councilmember Dieter seconded the motion which carried by a
voice vote of eight (8) ayes.
RESOLVE INTO THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
At 7:05 p.m. Councilmember Dieter made a motion to resolve into the Committee of the
Whole. Councilmember Puzzello seconded the motion which carried by a voice vote of
eight (8) ayes. Councilmember White, Chairperson, Committee of the Whole, presiding.
Councilmember White explained the procedures to be followed for tonight's meeting in
accordance with Article 1, Section 2-11 of the South Bend Municipal Code.
Councilmember White stated that a brochure may be found on the railing in the Council
Chambers explaining those procedures.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
BILLS, 44-07; 54-07; 55-07 AND 56-07
(COUNCIL PORTION ONLY
BILL NO. 44-07 PUBLIC HEARING ON A BILL OF THE COMMON
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA,
AMENDING CHAPTER 14 OF THE SOUTH BEND
MUNICIPAL CODE BY THE INCLUSION OF NEW
ARTICLE 9 ENTITLED "REGULATIONS
ADDRESSING SPECIAL EVENTS IN
RESIDENTIALLY ZONED AREAS" AND AMENDING
OTHER SECTIONS OF CHAPTER 14 RELATED
THERETO
Councilmember Kirsits made a motion to accept 2nd Substitute Bill 44-07 as amended as
on file in the Office of the City Clerk. Councilmember Dieter seconded the motion,
which carried by a voice vote of eight (8) ayes.
Councilmember Rouse stated that 2nd Substitute Bill 44-07 as amended has a cover sheet
with it that shows the amendments, mainly to do with language, he and Councilmember
Kirsits feel the bill has been very fluid in nature and the concerns of those that have been
participating in the Public Hearing Section have been included into this bill. He urged
the Council's favorable recommendation.
Councilmember Kirsits stated that there are approximately 17 or 18 changes in the bill.
Basically it is the same bill, it just again added Holy Cross College to the committee and
made a few other changes that the bill needed to avoid any confusion in applying for a
lawn parking permit. He thanked Attorney Dick Nussbaum and Student Body President
Liz Brown for the cooperation and input. There is still work that will be needed as times
go by, but hopefully, the end result will be more harmony in the neighborhood.
Councilmember Puzzello stated that this new bill is what she believes to be the best bill
that they have had. There are a few exceptions that she would have liked to see included.
She would have like to see a time limit put on individuals who park their cars on lawns.
Councilmember Puzzello referred to Council Attorney Kathleen Cekanski-Farrand for the
reasoning why the language could not be included.
Council Attorney Kathleen Cekanski-Farrand stated that from an enforcement
perspective it was in discussion with the administration that since the bill was including a
permit process as opposed to a hang tag process that the permits are only good for one
day, so that it would be from midnight to the following midnight. Therefore, allowing a
much more enforceable bill.
REGULAR MEETING SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
Councilmember Puzzello stated that she has a problem with that because people who
after the game if they want to leave their car on the lawn and go someplace else and
sometimes that place is a place to consume alcohol and then come back to remove their
car from the neighborhood after they have had too much to drink. She hoped that before
the final design for the permit is made up that the Council would have a change to look at
it and make sure that homeowners understand their responsibilities on days that they are
parking cars. The enforcement date is already a part of the ordinance and referred to
Council Attorney Kathleen Cekanski-Farrand for that information.
Council Attorney Kathleen Cekanski-Farrand advised that if the Council goes forward
with the bill this evening and Mayor Luecke signs it before the advertising deadline it
would published in its entirety and then would go into effect on midnight October 5,
2007.
Councilmember Puzzello stated that when the CCAC meets she thinks that it is very
important that they report to the Council and the Council gives a report back to the
citizens so that a line of communication remain open. She noted that the identity of the
sponsor needs to be known when students have parties that there is a way to find to know
who is in charge of the party. This has been a problem for the South Bend Police
Department for a long time, when they try to give a ticket, they have a very difficult time
in a group of drunks, finding out who the sponsor of the party is. Through the
administrative work with Notre Dame and whatever goes on, she hopes that they can find
the sponsor of the party. Councilmember Puzzello stated that these are the ideas that she
would like to see addressed. She believes that this bill is as good as it can get for now.
As far as for both student and neighbors are concerned, she thinks there will be much less
raucous with the new understanding of this bill. She stated that by working with Notre
Dame and the City and all the partners, she hopes this will be an improvement for lawn
parking because there are more responsibilities for people who park cars and she thinks
that this is a good thing.
Councilmember Varner stated that as long as everyone goes forward excepting the fact
that this is about responsibility and not retribution because he thinks that from the first
moment certain segments felt that they had been picked upon or singled out, they want to
apply this to any circumstance where a party is out of control and as far as the lawn
parking is concerned he fully respects the right of person to utilize their property in a
reasonable fashion and under certain circumstances but he also respects the right of the
neighbors who have some sort of action in the event that someone does damage their
property. In that instance this is about responsibility not about retribution and if
everybody keeps that in mind, the believes that this can work quite well and thinks that
everybody can walk away from it feeling good about it and feeling acceptance of the
notion that it is a win for everybody, wouldn't that be nice.
Councilmember Rouse stated that he appreciates the comments from all the
Councilmember's. One of the functions of the CCAC is that the document is fluid, the
process is fluid, those concerns are best addressed when they are coming together
collaborating in apro-active way to address the concerns of all of the community. He
feels that they have best designed statutory documents but at the same time the willpower
lies within those who shall be participating in the process and we are very confident that
those concerns timeline on parking can best be addressed with the coalition. He noted
that they addressed the mayor's concern about the public access but only after the
commission reports back to the Council in a full public hearing. He thanked the Council
and all the people who have participated in the many public hearings very deligently.
Councilmember White thanked the Council Attorney, City Administration, the University
of Notre Dame and all of the other partners who participated atone time appeared to be a
very painful process. She is very grateful that as a Council took the time to work out as
many of the concerns as possible and she believes that they have a very good ordinance
here tonight and as they continued to work collaboratively together and will continue to
foster the type of working environment and also the type of City that everyone wants to
live in and work proactively with all of the students including the University of Notre
REGULAR MEETING
SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
Dame. She again thanked the co-sponsors Councilmember Rouse and Kirsits for their
efforts.
Councilmember Kuspa stated that there has been a lot hard work that has gone into this
bill. He noted that South Bend is a very collegiate town, with Notre Dame; St. Mary's,
Holy Cross, IUSB, Ivy Tech, Brown Mackie etc., all being in the near vicinity.
Councilmember Kuspa stated that this bill is not enforceable. He stated that lawn parking
is banned in all districts of the City and not being enforced. He stated that he understands
that there is a need for parking during the seven (7) Notre Dame homes games during the
year, and that there could be some exception made for that. He noted that there is a
disorderly house ordinance already on the books and that bill is not being enforced as it
should. Councilmember Kuspa stated that parties are going to be held and those people
hosting those parties are not going to register with the City. He reiterated that this bill
has had a lot of hard work put into it, and as much as he appreciates everyone's diligence
on this bill, it cannot be enforced. Councilmember Kuspa stated that he will not be
voting in favor of this bill.
Councilmember Dieter made a motion for favorable recommendation to full Council
concerning this 2nd Substitute Bill as amended. Councilmember Kirsits seconded the
motion which carried by a voice vote of eight (8) ayes.
Councilmember Rouse excused himself from the Council Meeting.
BILL NO. 54-07 PUBLIC HEARING ON A BILL LEVYING TAXES
AND FIXING THE RATE OF TAXATION FOR THE
PURPOSE OF RAISING REVENUE TO MEET THE
NECESSARY EXPENSES OF THE CIVIL CITY OF
SOUTH BEND FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDING
DECEMBER 31, 2006
Councilmember Varner, Vice-Chairperson, Personnel & Finance Committee, reported
that this committee held a Public Hearing on this bill this afternoon and sends it to the
full Council with a favorable recommendation.
Councilmember Puzzello made a motion for favorable recommendation to full Council
concerning this bill. Councilmember Kuspa seconded the motion which carried by a
voice vote of seven (7) ayes.
BILL NO. 55-07 PUBLIC HEARING ON A BILL APPROPRIATING
MONIES FOR THE PURPOSE OF DEFRAYING THE
EXPENSES OF SEVERAL DEPARTMENTS OF THE
CIVIL CITY OF SOUTH BEND INDIANA FOR THE
FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2008 AND
ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2008, INCLUDING ALL
OUTSTANDING CLAIMS AND OBLIGATIONS, AND
FIXING A TIME WHEN THE SAME SHALL TAKE
EFFECT
Councilmember Varner made a motion to amend this bill as on file with the Office of the
City Clerk. Councilmember Dieter seconded the motion which carried by a voice vote of
seven (7) ayes.
Councilmember Varner noted that these last changes that have come before the Council
as late as this afternoon are on file in the Office of the City Clerk for anyone who would
like to see the detail.
Councilmember Varner, Vice-Chairperson, Personnel & Finance Committee, reported
that this committee held a Public Hearing on this amended bill as on file with Office of
the City Clerk and sends it to the full Council with a favorable recommendation.
REGULAR MEETING SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
Councilmember Varner stated that the Committee meeting held last Thursday, by the
South Bend Police Department regarding their budget generated concern from people
employed by the Police Department. They were concerned about the elimination of
positions and in fact it was their very own positions that were being eliminated and they
feared that there could be some retribution involved. Councilmember Varner stated that
the Council sent a letter to Mayor Luecke, and he has decided to leave those positions as
submitted. There was some concern about retribution and perhaps some legal action if
necessary being considered, and at that point and time, it sent a flag to the
Councilmember'sthct they should be aware of situations like this on an on-going basis as
things develop. He hopes that they don't but in fact if they do develop and goes forward
as amended, that the Council would want to remain a portion of at least that discussion.
He has a feeling that this is not going away any time soon, and that it is the Council
responsibility with regards to a potential lawsuit.
Councilmember Dieter reiterated that the Council just received the Mayor's letter today.
For the record these are the two positions that the people came to the Committee Meeting
specifically with questions about the elimination of the civilian position and the
civilianization of the Records Bureau Captain. He stated that these were the two
positions that were cited that night. He thinks that the letter the Council sent out should
have listed those specific jobs, just to clarify it for the record, from what was received
back from the Mayor today. Those two positions are what the Council is questioning and
will follow up at a later date with information received from these two employees or any
other employees.
Mayor Luecke stated that obviously when people come to the podium they can say
anything that they want. He does not expect any retribution for people speaking before
the Council. As he recalls Captain Marciniak said that he had contemplated civilianizing
his position a number of years ago, so he was not opposed to the action. What he was
complaining about was that he had not been notified ahead of time. Regrettably, Chief
Fautz was not aware that the administration was posting the budget online, he felt that he
did not want to stir people up about their jobs until the Council was going to take action
and so he did not confer with these employees but not out of any mean spirit it was just
that he felt it appropriate for the Council to hear the position first and to take action on
that before he would inform them, so as was said that there won't be an retribution here,
and again the elimination of one civilian position does allow the creation of another
civilian position in the evidence area to make sure that they are able to keep up with
cataloging all of the evidence and making sure that they have full accounting for that
which is an important position for them.
Councilmember White stated that she would like to monitor the issues and concerns that
were expressed not only at today's committee meeting but also during the budget hearing
process. She wanted to make sure that was the feeling of the other Councihnember's and
make those particular issues and concerns known as well as the Council begins to take
action on this particular bill.
Councilmember Dieter made a motion for favorable recommendation to full Council
concerning this bill as amended. Councilmember Kirsits seconded the motion which
carried by a voice vote of seven (7) ayes.
BILL NO. 56-07 PUBLIC HEARING ON A BILL OF THE COMMON
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND
APPROPRIATING MONIES FOR THE PURPOSE OF
DEFRAYING THE EXPENSES OF THE DESIGNATED
ENTERPRISE FUNDS OF THE CITY OF SOUTH
BEND, INDIANA, FOR THE FISCAL YEAR
BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2008 AND ENDING
DECEMBER 31, 2008, INCLUDING ALL
OUTSTANDING CLAIMS AND OBLIGATIONS, AND
FIXING A TIME WHEN THE SAME SHALL TAKE
EFFECT
REGULAR MEETING
SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
Councilmember Varner, Vice-Chairperson, Personnel & Finance Committee, reported
that this committee held a Public Hearing on this bill this afternoon and sends it to the
full Council with a favorable recommendation.
Councilmember Dieter made a motion for favorable recommendation to full Council
concerning this bill. Councilmember Kuspa seconded the motion which carried by a
voice vote of seven (7) ayes.
Mayor Luecke, 14a` Floor County-City Building, South Bend, Indiana, thanked the
Council for the diligence that they have given in reviewing this budget. The City Budget
is a complicated document that sets the blueprint for expenditures for next year. It really
sets the City's priorities for expenditures for the coming year and as continues to be the
case has had been the case ever since he has been Mayor and probably ever since the City
was founded, public safety remains the number priority in terms of funding for the City
of South Bend. In addition, to funding police and fire this budget funds, the parks,
utilities, services provided to this community and it funds them in a very fair and
equitable manner and he is proud to say despite the pressures that have been placed on
communities all across the state, the City of South Bend has been able to maintain a
strong budget and have been able to continue to budget for reserve that are important for
the City in terms of both cash flow and bond rating and the ability to sustain unexpected
expenses such as having to borrow money because the tax payments have not come in yet
or in the event of a severe blizzard in the winter having dollars available to pay overtime
to clear the streets. He stated that this budget is a sound budget, it's a solid budget, it
does not budget for the maximum dollars that the City could levy for out of property
taxes. That is that they holding the property taxes a million and half dollars below what
they could in order to be respectful to the taxpayers. It also attempts to hold the property
tax rate even, anticipating a 2% growth in assessed value for next year. He stated that
they are trying to resourceful and trying to provide additional services with fewer people,
this budget does reduce the number of positions across several different departments and
brings to 95 the total number of positions that have been reduced out of City employment
since the year 2000. But it continues to provide full services to the community as they
have come to expect from the City of South Bend.
Councilmember Varner stated that this may seem like it is happening rather fast, but
before the Council is done this evening they will levy taxes, approve grants, approve
loans, and basically authorize the spending of approximately 187 million dollars. That is
for the entire City of South Bend and is something that has led to a dozen or so meetings
that have been held over the past month or so. There have been a number of agreements
and disagreements, and a few remain, but he thinks that most people would appreciate the
fact that the levy will be held at 2% because it could have been set at 3.6% or 4%. This is
one small step in their effort to get property taxes which have been rather high in this area
in the range where we are competitive with other communities. He stated that he would
like to do is to appeal to people sitting out here tonight to spend a little more time
attending these meetings as well as the budget meetings. As they begin next year, they
are advertised and the Council will alert the public when they will begin so they can clear
their schedules to attend. This budget is a lot of money but for the most part responsibly
spent, but he stated that he cringes a little bit every time he talks about 185, 187, or next
year 201 million dollars. He wishes that more people had he same concern and expressed
their interest it could be a better budget, if there were more public participation.
BILL NO. 40-07 PUBLIC HEARING ON A BILL AMENDING THE
ZONING ORDINANCE FOR PROPERTY LOCATED
BETWEEN 3466 AND 17210 DOUGLAS ROAD AND
SOUTH OF 17210 AND 17242 DOUGLAS ROAD AND
APPROXIMATELY 1,000 FEET EAST OF S.R. 23,
COUNCILMANIC DISTRICT 4 IN THE CITY OF
SOUTH BEND, INDIANA
REGULAR MEETING
SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
Councilmember Puzzello made a motion to continue this bill until the October 8, 2007,
meeting of the Council at the request of the petitioner. Councilmember Dieter seconded
the motion which carried by a voice vote of seven (7) ayes.
BILL NO. 60-07 PUBLIC HEARING ON A BILL TO VACATE THE
FOLLOWING DESCRIBED PROPERTY, THE ALLEY
TO BE VACATED IS THE FIRST NORTH/SOUTH
ALLEY WEST OF DALE STREET, FROM DAYTON
STREET TO THE FIRST EAST/WEST ALLEY FOR A
DISTANCE OF 153.5 FEET AND A WIDTH OF 14 FEET
Councilmember Varner, Chairperson, Public Works and Property Vacation Committee,
reported that this committee held a Public Hearing on this bill this afternoon and voted to
send it to the full Council with a favorable recommendation.
Mr. Domingo Flores, Jr., 901 E. Dayton Street, South Bend, Indiana, made the
presentation for this bill.
Mr. Flores stated that the purpose of the vacation is to consolidate the two properties that
he owns. He stated that it would prevent trash from getting thrown on a daily basis and
make it a safe place for his children to play.
This being the time heretofore set for the Public Hearing on the above bill, proponents
and opponents were given an opportunity to be heard.
There being no one present wishing to speak to the Council either in favor of or in
opposition to this bill, Councilmember Dieter made a motion for favorable
recommendation to full Council concerning this bill. Councilmember Varner seconded
the motion which carried by a voice vote of seven (7) ayes.
BILL NO. 58-07 PUBLIC HEARING ON A BILL FIXING MAXIMUM
SALARIES AND WAGES OF APPOINTED OFFICERS
AND NON-BARGAINING EMPLOYEES OF THE CITY
OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA, FOR THE CALENDAR
YEAR 2008
Councilmember Varner made a motion to amend this bill as on file in the Office of the
City Clerk. Councilmember Dieter seconded the motion which carried by a voice vote
of seven (7) ayes.
Councilmember Varner, Vice-Chairperson, Personnel & Finance Committee, reported
that this committee held a meeting this afternoon and sends it to the full Council with a
favorable recommendation with the amended detail.
Ms. Catherine Fanello, Controller, 12~` Floor County-City Building, South Bend, Indiana,
made the presentation for this bill.
Ms. Fanello advised that the amended version of the bill is on file with the Office of the
City Clerk and she would be happy to answer any questions that the Council might have.
This being the time heretofore set for Public Hearing on the above bill, proponents and
opponents were given an opportunity to be heard.
There being no one present wishing to speak to the Council either in favor of or in
opposition to this bill, Councilmember Dieter made a motion for favorable
recommendation as amended and on file in the Office of the City Clerk. Councilmember
Varner seconded the motion which carried by a voice vote of seven (7) ayes.
REGULAR MEETING
SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
BILL NO. 62-07 PUBLIC HEARING ON A BILL FIXING MAXIMUM
WAGES OF TEAMSTER EMPLOYEES OF THE CITY
OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA, FOR THE CALENDAR
YEAR 2008
Councilmember Varner, Vice-Chairperson, Personnel and Finance Committee, reported
that this committee held a Public Hearing on this bill this afternoon and sends it to the
full Council with a favorable recommendation.
Ms. Catherine Fanello, Controller, 12~` Floor County-City Building, South Bend, Indiana,
made the presentation for this bill.
Ms. Fanello stated that this is a very simple ordinance and noted that they will be
amending this bill at a later date to include two other years.
This being the time heretofore set for Public Hearing on the above bill, proponents and
opponents were given an opportunity to be heard.
There being no one present wishing to speak to the Council either in favor of or in
opposition to this bill, Councilmember Dieter made a motion for favorable
recommendation to full Council concerning this bill. Councilmember Varner seconded
the motion which carried by a voice vote of seven (7) ayes.
RISE AND REPORT
Councilmember Kuspa made a motion to rise and report to the full Council.
Councilmember Dieter seconded the motion which carried by a voice vote of seven (7)
ayes.
ATTEST: ATTEST:
John Voorde, City Clerk Karen L. White, Chairperson
Committee of the Whole
REGULAR MEETING RECONVENED
Be it remembered that the Common Council of the City of South Bend reconvened in the
Council Chambers on the fourth floor of the County-City Building at 7:40 p.m. Council
Vice-President Ann Puzzello presided with seven (7) members present.
BILLS, THIRD READING
ORDINANCE NO. 9785-07 AN ORDINANCE OF THE COMMON
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND,
INDIANA, AMENDING CHAPTER 14 OF THE
SOUTH BEND MUNICIPAL CODE BY THE
INCLUSION OF NEW ARTICLE 9 ENTITLED
"REGULATIONS ADDRESSING SPECIAL
EVENTS IN RESIDENTIALLY ZONED AREAS"
AND AMENDING OTHER SECTIONS OF
CHAPTER 14 RELATED THERETO
REGULAR MEETING
SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
This bill had third reading. Councilmember Varner made a motion to amend this bill as
in the Committee of the Whole. Councilmember Dieter seconded the motion which
carried by a voice vote of six (6) ayes and one (1) nay (Councilmember Kuspa).
Councilmember Kirsits made a motion to pass this bill as amended in the Committee of
the Whole. Councilmember Kelly seconded the motion which carried. The bill passed
by a roll call vote of six (6) ayes and one (1) nay (Councilmember Kuspa)
ORDINANCE NO. 9786-07 AN ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING
MONIES FOR THE PURPOSE OF DEFRAYING
THE EXPENSES OF SEVERAL DEPARTMENTS
OF THE CIVIL CITY OF SOUTH BEND
INDIANA FOR THE FISCAL YEAR
BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2008 AND ENDING
DECEMBER 31, 2008, INCLUDING ALL
OUTSTANDING CLAIMS AND OBLIGATIONS,
AND FIXING A TIME WHEN THE SAME
SHALL TAKE EFFECT
This bill had third reading. Councilmember White made a motion to pass this bill.
Councilmember Dieter seconded the motion which carried. The bill passed by a roll call
vote of seven (7) ayes.
ORDINANCE NO. 9787-07 AN ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING
MONIES FOR THE PURPOSE OF DEFRAYING
THE EXPENSES OF SEVERAL DEPARTMENTS
OF THE CIVIL CITY OF SOUTH BEND
INDIANA FOR THE FISCAL YEAR
BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2008 AND ENDING
DECEMBER 31, 2008, INCLUDING ALL
OUTSTANDING CLAIMS AND OBLIGATIONS,
AND FIXING A TIME WHEN THE SAME
SHALL TAKE EFFECT
This bill had third reading. Councilmember Varner made a motion to amend this bill as
in the Committee of the Whole. Councilmember Dieter seconded the motion which
carried by a voice vote of seven (7) ayes. Additionally, Councilmember Dieter made a
motion to pass this bill as amended in the Committee of the Whole. Councilmember
Varner seconded the motion which carried. The bill passed by a roll call vote of seven
(7) ayes.
ORDINANCE NO. 9788-07 AN ORDINANCE OF THE COMMON COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND
APPROPRIATING MONIES FOR THE
PURPOSE OF DEFRAYING THE
EXPENSES OF THE DESIGNATED
ENTERPRISE FUNDS OF THE CITY OF SOUTH
BEND, INDIANA, FOR THE FISCAL YEAR
BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2008 AND ENDING
DECEMBER 31, 2008, INCLUDING ALL
OUTSTANDING CLAIMS AND OBLIGATIONS,
AND FIXING A TIME WHEN THE SAME
SHALL TAKE EFFECT
REGULAR MEETING
SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
This bill had third reading. Councilmember White made a motion to pass this bill.
Councilmember Dieter seconded the motion which carried. The bill passed by a roll call
vote of seven (7) ayes.
ORDINANCE NO. 9789-07 AN ORDINANCE TO VACATE THE
FOLLOWING DESCRIBED PROPERTY, THE
ALLEY TO BE VACATED IS THE FIRST
NORTH/SOUTH ALLEY WEST OF DALE
STREET, FROM DAYTON STREET TO THE
FIRST EAST/WEST ALLEY FOR A DISTANCE
OF 153.5 FEET AND A WIDTH OF 14 FEET
This bill had third reading. Councilmember Varner made a motion to pass this bill.
Councilmember Kuspa seconded the motion which carried. The bill passed by a roll call
vote of seven (7) ayes.
ORDINANCE NO. 9790-07 AN ORDINANCE FIXING MAXIMUM
SALARIES AND WAGES OF APPOINTED
OFFICERS AND NON-BARGAINING
EMPLOYEES OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND,
INDIANA, FOR THE CALENDAR YEAR 2008
This bill had third reading. Councilmember Dieter made a motion to amend this bill as in
the Committee of the Whole. Councilmember Varner seconded the motion which carried
by a voice vote of seven (7) ayes. Additionally, Councilmember Dieter made a motion to
pass this bill as amended in the Committee of the Whole. Councilmember Kelly
seconded the motion which carried. The bill passed by a roll call vote of seven (7) ayes.
ORDINANCE NO. 9791-07 AN ORDINANCE FIXING MAXIMUM
WAGES OF TEAMSTER EMPLOYEES OF THE
CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA, FOR THE
CALENDAR YEAR 2008
This bill had third reading. Councilmember Dieter made a motion to pass this bill.
Councilmember Varner seconded the motion which carried. The bill passed by a roll call
vote of seven (7) ayes.
RESOLUTIONS
RESOLUTION NO. 3787-07
A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA,
AUTHORIZING THE UNITED STATES
ATTORNEY NORTHERN DISTRICT OF
INDIANA, TO SUBMIT AN APPLICATION FOR
WEED AND SEED OFFICIAL RECOGNITION
TO THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF
JUSTICE ON BEHALF OF THE WEE AND
SEED STEERING COMMITTEE, THE MAYOR
OF SOUTH BEND, AND THE ST. JOSEPH
COUNTY PROSECUTOR
WHEREAS, the Congress of the United States of America, through Public Law
106-553, has established the Weed and Seed Program, administered by the U. S.
Department of Justice (DOJ), allowing communities to achieve "Official Recognition" as
Weed and Seed areas, and entitling those communities which are so recognized with
certain benefits (as provided by law), from time to time; and
10
REGULAR MEETING SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
WHEREAS, the vision of the Weed and Seed strategy is twofold, being, 1) that
law enforcement agencies and criminal justice officials cooperate to "weed out" criminals
who are violent or abuse drugs to prevent them from victimizing residents in the
designated area, and 2) that social services and economic revitalization are brought in to
"seed" the area to ensure long-term change and a higher quality of life for residents; and
WHEREAS, a community process has been set in motion which complies with
the requirements set forth by the DOJ, including the creation of a Weed and Seed
Steering Committee composed of persons representing the City of South Bend, the St.
Joseph County Prosecutor, the United States Attomey Northern District of Indiana, the
United States Drug Enforcement Agency, nonprofit and social service organizations and
community residents; and
WHEREAS, the Weed and Seed Steering Committee, with staff support from the
City of South Bend, has agreed upon an area within South Bend which the Steering
Committee would like to see officially recognized by the DOJ as a designated Weed &
Seed Target Area, and
WHEREAS, the Weed and Seed Steering Committee, with staff support from the
City of South Bend, has developed general goals and objectives as part of acommunity-
based, multi-year plan; and
WHEREAS, the application to the DOJ for Official Recognition represents the
collaboration and commitment of many organizations from the public, private and
nonprofit sectors, to work together to improve the quality of life for the residents of the
designated area in particular, as well as the residents throughout the entire city; and
WHEREAS, the Weed and Seed Steering Committee has approved the Weed and
Seed application at a Steering Committee meeting held on September 20, 2007.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED by the Common Council of
the City of South Bend, Indiana, as follows:
Section L The Common Council of the City of South Bend hereby accepts,
approves, and gives its full support to the Application to the Department of Justice for
Weed and Seed "Official Recognition", and it further authorizes the United States
Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana to submit this Application to the
Department of Justice.
Section IL That this Resolution shall be in full force and effect from and after its
adoption by the Common Council and approval by the Mayor.
s/Ann Puzzello
Member of the Common Council
RESOLUTION NO. 3788-07 A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE
ADOPTION OF A DECLARATORY
RESOLUTION DESIGNATING CERTAIN
AREAS WITHIN THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND,
INDIANA, COMMONLY KNOWN AS 218, 222,
224, 228, 231 SOUTH NOTRE DAME AVENUE
AND 827 EAST WAYNE STREET AS
RESIDENTIALLY DISTRESSED AREAS FOR
PURPOSES OF A FIVE (5) YEAR
RESIDENTIAL REAL PROPERTY TAX
ABATEMENT FOR KENDALL-WEISS, LLP
11
REGULAR MEETING
SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
WHEREAS, the Common Council of the City of South Bend, Indiana, has
adopted a Declaratory Resolution designating certain areas within the City as
Residentially Distressed Areas for the purpose of tax abatement consideration; and
WHEREAS, a Declaratory Resolution designated the area commonly known as
219, 222, 224, 228, 231 South Notre Dame Avenue and 827 East Wayne Street, South
Bend, Indiana, and which is more particularly described as follows:
Parcel 1:
A lot or parcel of land described as follows: Commencing at the southeast corner
of Lot three hundred thirty four (334) in Samuel L. Cottrell's first addition to the
town of Lowell, now a part of the city of South Bend, thence running west on the
south line of said lot, 82 1/2 feet: thence north 33 feet; thence east 82 '/z feet to the
east line of said lot, thence south 33 feet to the place of beginning. (Tax ID #18-
6003-0074)
Also the east''/z of the lot numbered three hundred thirty-five (335) in Samuel L.
Cottrell's first addition to the town of Lowell, now a part of the city of South
Bend, recorded May 4, 1860 in the office of the recorder of St. Joseph County,
Indiana, in Plat Book 1, Page 49. (Tax ID # 18-6003-0075)
Parcel IL
The south half (1/2) of lot numbered three hundred thirty three (333) as shown on
the recorded plat of Samuel L. Cottrell's first addition to the town of Lowell, now
city of South Bend, Indiana (Tax ID # 18-6003-0070)
Parcel III:
The north half of lot numbered three hundred thirty four (334) as shown on the
recorded plat of Samuel L. Cottrell's addition, also known as Samuel L. Cottrell's
First addition , to the town of Lowell, now a part of the City of South Bend, in St.
Joseph County, Indiana (Tax ID # 18-6003-0071).
Parcel IV
The north half of lot numbered five as shown on the recorded plat of Adam
Barman's subdivision of large lot numbered twenty-one in Samuel L. Cottrell's
First addition to the town of Lowell, now a part of the City of South Bend (Tax ID
# 18-6007-0172).
Parcel V:
The south half of lot numbered four (4) in Adam Barman's subdivision of large
lot numbered twenty-one in Samuel L. Cottrell's fast addition to the town of
Lowell, now a part of the City of South Bend, excepting there from a lot or parcel
of land 42 '/z feet in width, east and west, taken off of and from the entire width of
the east and thereof. (Tax ID # 18-6007-0170).
Parcel VL
Part of lot numbered four (4) as shown on the recorded plat of Adam Barman's
subdivision of large lot numbered twenty-one in Samuel L. Cottrell's first
addition to the town of Lowell, now a part of the city of South Bend, in St. Joseph
County, Indiana, described as beginning at the northwest corner of said lot
numbered 4; running thence east 122.5 feet; thence south 33 feet; thence west
122.5 feet; thence south 33 feet; thence west 122.5 feet to the east line of Notre
Dame Avenue in the city of South Bend ;thence north along the east line of Notre
Dame Avenue, 33 feet to the place of beginning. (Tax ID # 18-6007-0169).
Parcel VII:
A lot or parcel of land forty -two and one half (42 ''/z) feet in width, east and west,
taken off and from the entire width of the east end of lot numbered four (4) as
shown on the recorded plat of Adam Barman's subdivision of large lot numbered
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REGULAR MEETING
SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
twenty-one (21) in Samuel L. Cottrell's first addition to the town of Lowell, now
a part of the city of South Bend, (Tax ID # 18-6007-0171).
Parcel VIII:
The north one half of lot numbered three hundred thirty three (333) as shown on
the recorded plat of Samuel L. Cottrell's addition to the town of Lowell, now
within and part of the city of South Bend, together with the south one half of the
vacated alley lying north and adjacent to said lot numbered three hundred thirty
three (333). (Tax ID # 18-6003-0069).
and this property has Tax Key Numbers as shown above, be designated as a Residentially
Distressed Area under the provisions of Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1 et sea., and South Bend
Municipal Code Sections 2-76 et seq., and;
WHEREAS, notice of the adoption of a Declaratory Resolution and the public
hearing before the Council has been published pursuant to Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1-2.5;
and
WHEREAS, the Council held a public hearing for the purposes of hearing all
remonstrance's and objections from interested persons; and
WHEREAS, the Council has determined that the qualifications for a residentially
distressed area have been met.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Common Council of the City of
South Bend, Indiana, as follows:
SECTION L The Common Council hereby determines and finds that the petition for real
property tax abatement and the Statement of Benefits form meet the requirements of
Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1 et seq., for tax abatement.
SECTION IL The Common Council hereby determines and finds that the area meets one
of the following conditions as formally established in Ordinance No. 9394-03, which was
passed on February 10, 2003:
A. The area is comprised of parcels that are either unimproved or contain only
one (1) or two (2) family dwellings designed for up to four (4) families,
including accessory buildings for those dwellings; or
B. Any dwellings in the area are not permanently occupied and are:
i. the subject of an order issued under IC 36-7-9; or
ii. evidencing significant building deficiencies; or
C. Parcels of property in the area:
i. have been sold and not redeemed under IC 6-1.1-24 and IC 6-1.1-25;
or
ii. are owned by a unit of local government; or
D. A significant number of dwelling units within the area are not permanently
occupied or a significant number of parcels in the area are vacant land; or
E. A significant number of dwelling units within the area are:
i. the subject of an order issued under IC 36-7-9; or
ii. evidencing significant building deficiencies; or
F. The area has experienced a net loss in the number of dwelling units, as
documented by census information, local building and demolition permits,
or certificates of occupancy, or the areas are owned by Indiana or the United
States; or
G. The area (plus any areas previously designated under this subsection) will
not exceed ten percent (10%) of the total area within the Council's
jurisdiction.
SECTION III. The Common Council also hereby determines and finds the following:
13
REGULAR MEETING
SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
A. That the description of the proposed redevelopment meets the applicable
standards for such development.
B. That the estimate of the value of the redevelopment is reasonable for
projects of this nature;
C. That the other benefits about which information was requested are benefits
that can be reasonably expected to result from the proposed described
redevelopment; and
D. That the totality of benefits is sufficient to justify the requested deduction,
all of which satisfy the requirements of Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1-3.
E. The deduction will not be allowed unless the dwelling is rehabilitated to
meet local code standards for habitability.
F. The deduction will not be allowed unless the dwelling rehabilitation is
completed within five (5) calendar years from the date of the adoption of
this Resolution by the Common Council.
SECTION IV. The Common Council hereby confirms its Declaratory Resolution
designating the area described herein as a Residentially Distressed Area for the purposes
of tax abatement. Such designation is for Real property tax abatement only and is limited
to five (5) calendar years from the date of adoption of the Declaratory Resolution by the
Common Council.
SECTION V. The Common Council hereby determines that the property owner is
qualified for and is granted Real property tax deduction for a period of five (5) years, and
further determines that the petition complies with Chapter 2, Article 6, of the Municipal
Code of the City of South Bend and Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1 et seq.
SECTION VL This Resolution shall be in full force and effect from and after its
adoption by the Common Council and approval by the Mayor.
s/Timothy A. Rouse
Member of the Common Council
BILL NO. 07-122 A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE
ADOPTION OF A DECLARATORY
RESOLUTION DESIGNATING CERTAIN
AREAS WITHIN THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND,
INDIANA, COMMONLY KNOWN AS VACANT
LAND IN THE AIRPORT DEVELOPMENT
AREA AS AN ECONOMIC REVITALIZATION
AREA FOR PURPOSES OF A SEVEN (7) YEAR
REAL PROPERTY TAX ABATEMENT FOR
OLIVE CLEVELAND PARTNERS LLC
BILL NO. 07-80 A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE
ADOPTION OF A DECLARATORY
RESOLUTION DESIGNATING CERTAIN
AREAS WITHIN THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND,
INDIANA, COMMONLY KNOWN AS 202
SOUTH MICHIGAN STREET FLOORS 1,2,4,5,9
AND 11 TO 14 AS AN ECONOMIC
REVITALIZATION AREA FOR PURPOSES OF
A NINE-YEAR REAL PROPERTY TAX
ABATEMENT FOR KEY SB, LLC, THE
HINMAN COMPANY
Councilmember Varner made a motion to continue Bill Nos. 07-122 and 07-80 until the
October 8, 2007, meeting of the Council. Councilmember White seconded the motion
which carried by a voice vote of seven (7) ayes.
14
REGULAR MEETING
RESOLUTION NO. 3789-07
SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE
ADOPTION OF A DECLARATORY
RESOLUTION DESIGNATING CERTAIN
AREAS WITHIN THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND,
INDIANA, COMMONLY KNOWN AS 5855
CARBONMILL DRIVE AS AN ECONOMIC
REVITALIZATION AREA FOR PURPOSES OF
A SIX (6) YEAR REAL PROPERTY TAX
ABATEMENT FOR GWSB PROPERTIES LLC
WHEREAS, the Common Council of the City of South Bend, Indiana, has
adopted a Declaratory Resolution designating certain areas within the City as Economic
Revitalization Areas for the purpose of tax abatement consideration; and
WHEREAS, a Declaratory Resolution designated the area commonly known as
5855 Carbonmill Drive, South Bend, Indiana, and which is more particularly described as
follows:
Lot Numbered One (1) as shown on the recorded Plat of U. S. 31 Industrial
Park, Phase II, recorded October 9, 2001 as Document Number 0150153
in the Office of the Recorder of St. Joseph County, Indiana
and which has Key Number Number 25-1009-015210, as an Economic Revitalization
Area; and
WHEREAS, notice of the adoption of a Declaratory Resolution and the public
hearing before the Council has been published pursuant to Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1-2.5;
and
WHEREAS, the Council held a public hearing for the purposes of hearing all
remonstrance's and objections from interested persons; and
WHEREAS, the Council has determined that the qualifications for an economic
revitalization area have been met.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Common Council of the City of
South Bend, Indiana, as follows:
SECTION L The Common Council hereby confirms its Declaratory Resolution
designating the area described herein as an Economic Revitalization Area for the
purposes of tax abatement. Such designation is for Real property tax abatement only and
is limited to two (2) calendar years from the date of adoption of the Declaratory
Resolution by the Common Council.
SECTION IL The Common Council hereby determines that the property owner is
qualified for and is granted Real property tax deduction for a period of (6) six years, and
further determines that the petition, the Memorandum of Agreement between the
Petitioner and the City of South Bend, and the Statement of Benefits comply with
Chapter 2, Article 6, of the Municipal Code of the City of South Bend and Indiana Code
6-1.1-12 et sea.
SECTION III. This Resolution shall be in full force and effect from and after its
adoption by the Common Council and approved by the Mayor.
s/Timothy A. Rouse
Member of the Common Council
15
REGULAR MEETING
SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
Mr. Mike Kahn, 5855 Carbonmill Drive, South Bend, Indiana, made the presentation for
this bill.
Mr. Kahn advised that Corporate Services, Inc., the lessee, performs marketing services
including printing packaging, assembly, warehousing and distribution. The owners of
the project, GWSB Properties, LLC intend to add mechanical equipment to provide
temperature and humidity control to the entire operation. Due to the types of materials
which Corporate Services, Inc. stores and handles for their current and prospective
clients, humidity control is a contractual requirement to obtaining and keeping their
business. Without it, they cannot operate in that facility. The estimated dollar value of
the project is $300,000 to $500,000. Mr. Kahn estimated that the redevelopment and
rehabilitation project will create eighteen full-time permanent jobs within the first year,
representing a new annual payroll of $465,000 and will maintain six (6) existing
permanent full-time jobs with an annual payroll of $156,000. Of the existing jobs, five
full time positions are held by minorities. The payroll numbers do not include benefits,
for which all employees have eligibility.
A Public Hearing was held on the Resolution at this time.
There being no one present wishing to speak to the Council either in favor of or in
opposition to this Resolution, Councilmember Dieter made a motion to adopt this
Resolution. Councilmember Varner seconded the motion which carried and the
Resolution was adopted by a roll call vote of seven (7) ayes.
RESOLUTION NO. 3790-07 A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE
ADOPTION OF A DECLARATORY
RESOLUTION DESIGNATING CERTAIN
AREAS WITHIN THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND,
INDIANA, COMMONLY KNOWN AS 840
UNITED DRIVE AS AN ECONOMIC
REVITALIZATION AREA FOR PURPOSES OF
A NINE (9) YEAR PROPERTY TAX
ABATEMENT FOR NELSON DEE, LLC
WHEREAS, the Common Council of the City of South Bend, Indiana, has
adopted a Declaratory Resolution designating certain areas within the City as Economic
Revitalization Areas for the purpose of tax abatement consideration; and
WHEREAS, a Declaratory Resolution designated the area commonly known as
five acres adjacent to 840 United Drive, South Bend, Indiana, and which is more
particularly described as follows:
That part of the Southeast Quarter of Section 11, Township 37 North, Range 2
East, Portage Township, City of South Bend, St. Joseph County, Indiana, which is
described as Lot No. 2 of the Plat of "United Major Subdivision" as recorded in
Document No. 0522221 in the Records of St. Joseph County Recorder's Office.
and which has Key Number 18-3046-1772, as an Economic Revitalization Area, and
WHEREAS, notice of the adoption of a Declaratory Resolution and the public
hearing before the Council has been published pursuant to Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1-2.5;
and
WHEREAS, the Council held a public hearing for the purposes of hearing all
remonstrance's and objections from interested persons; and
WHEREAS, the Council has determined that the qualifications for an economic
revitalization area have been met.
16
REGULAR MEETING SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Common Council of the City of
South Bend, Indiana, as follows:
SECTION L The Common Council hereby confirms its Declaratory Resolution
designating the area described herein as an Economic Revitalization Area for the
purposes of tax abatement. Such designation is for Real property tax abatement only and
is limited to two (2) calendar years from the date of adoption of the Declaratory
Resolution by the Common Council.
SECTION IL The Common Council hereby determines that the property owner is
qualified for and is granted Real property tax deduction for a period of (9) nine years, and
further determines that the petition, the Memorandum of Agreement between the
Petitioner and the City of South Bend, and the Statement of Benefits comply with
Chapter 2, Article 6, of the Municipal Code of the City of South Bend and Indiana Code
6-1.1-12 et sea.
SECTION III. The Common Council hereby determines that should the Company
receive the Enterprise Zone Investment Deduction under LC. 6-1.1-45 for the same
property, this Tax Abatement designation shall become null and void. The Company
may not receive an economic revitalization area deduction if it receives an enterprise
zone investment deduction under LC. 6-1.1-45 for the same property.
SECTION IV. This Resolution shall be in full force and effect from and after its
adoption by the Common Council and approved by the Mayor.
s/Timothy A. Rouse
Member of the Common Council
Mr. Len Nelson, President, United Beverage, 840 United Drive, South Bend, Indiana,
made the presentation for this bill.
Mr. Nelson advised that United Beverage has been a beer wholesaler for 75 years. They
have been at their current location for 40 years and they have put on several additions.
The beer business has been transitioning from cans to bottles which has crated the need
for more warehouse space. They intent to purchase five acres which are contiguous to
their site. This will allow them to move their parking lot and also to construct an
additiona115,000 square feet of warehouse space. They also intend to remodel their
current warehouse. These efficiencies will allow them to compete more effectively.
United Beverage receives beer on a daily basis, and it must be stored in a temperature
controlled environment until it is delivered to their accounts. They currently distribute
Anheuser Busch, Corona, and Heineken as their main product lines. Mr. Nelson advised
that they supply beer to over 750 accounts in St. Joseph, Elkhart, and LaPorte counties.
The estimated dollar value of the project is $2,500,000. Mr. Nelson estimated that the
total project will create five (5) to seven (7) new, permanent, full-time jobs over the next
five years. The project will also maintain sixty-three (63) existing, permanent, full-time
jobs and seven (7) existing, permanent, part-time jobs representing an annual payroll of
$3,200,000.
A Public Hearing was held on the Resolution at this time.
There being no one present wishing to speak to the Council either in favor of or in
opposition to this Resolution, Councilmember Dieter made a motion to adopt this
Resolution. Councilmember Kirsits seconded the motion which carried and the
Resolution was adopted by a roll call vote of seven (7) ayes.
BILL NO. 07-105 A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE
ADOPTION OF A DECLARATORY
RESOLUTION DESIGNATING CERTAIN
17
REGULAR MEETING SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
AREAS WITHIN THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND,
INDIANA, COMMONLY KNOWN AS 2722
TUCKER DRIVE TO BE AN ECONOMIC
REVITALIZATION AREA FOR PURPOSES OF
A FIVE (5) YEAR PERSONAL PROPERTY TAX
ABATEMENT FOR STEEL WAREHOUSE
COMPANY LLC
BILL NO. 07-106 A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE
ADOPTION OF A DECLARATORY
RESOLUTION DESIGNATING CERTAIN
AREAS WITHIN THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND,
INDIANA, COMMONLY KNOWN AS 1400
RIVERSIDE DRIVE, SOUTH BEND, INDIANA
TO BE AN ECONOMIC REVITALIZATION
AREA FOR PURPOSES OF A FIVE (5) YEAR
PERSONAL PROPERTY TAX ABATEMENT
FOR STEEL WAREHOUSE COMPANY LLC
BILL NO. 07-107 A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE
ADOPTION OF A DECLARATORY
RESOLUTION DESIGNATING CERTAIN
AREAS WITHIN THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND,
INDIANA, COMMONLY KNOWN AS 1217 AND
1215 SOUTH WALNUT STREET, SOUTH
BEND, INDIANA TO BE AN ECONOMIC
REVITALIZATION AREA FOR PURPOSES OF
A FIVE (5) YEAR PERSONAL PROPERTY TAX
ABATEMENT FOR STEEL WAREHOUSE
COMPANY LLC
Councilmember Varner made a motion to combine Bill Nos. 07-105; 07-106 and 07-107
for purposes of Public Hearing. Councilmember Dieter seconded the motion which
carried by a voice vote of seven (7) ayes.
RESOLUTION NO. 3791-07 A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE
ADOPTION OF A DECLARATORY
RESOLUTION DESIGNATING CERTAIN
AREAS WITHIN THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND,
INDIANA, COMMONLY KNOWN AS 2722
TUCKER DRIVE TO BE AN ECONOMIC
REVITALIZATION AREA FOR PURPOSES OF
A FIVE (5) YEAR PERSONAL PROPERTY TAX
ABATEMENT FOR STEEL WAREHOUSE
COMPANY LLC
WHEREAS, the Common Council of the City of South Bend, Indiana, has
adopted a Declaratory Resolution designating certain areas within the City as Economic
Revitalization Areas for the purpose of tax abatement consideration; and
WHEREAS, a Declaratory Resolution designated the area commonly known as
2722 Tucker Drive, South Bend, Indiana, and which is more particularly described as
follows:
The following parcels of Real Estate all located in St. Joseph County, Indiana:
18
REGULAR MEETING SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
A part of the South''/z of the Northwest'/a of Section 15, Township 37 North,
Range 2 East in the City of South Bend, St. Joseph County, Indiana, described as follows:
Beginning at a point on the East line of the Southwest'/4 of the Northwest'/4 of
said Section 15, 580.64 feet South of the Northeast corner of said Southwest'/4 of the
Northwest'/4, said point being 172.0 feet North of the North right of way line of the
Indiana Northern Railway Company; thence Westerly parallel with said North right-of-
way line 565 feet to the Southwest corner of a tract of land conveyed to Stanley
Enterprise, Inc. By a deed recorded October 16, 1993 in Deed Record 777, page 226;
thence North along the West line of said Stanley Enterprises, inc. tract, said line being
parallel with the East line of said Southwest'/4 of the Northwest'/4, 323.0 feet to the
South line of Tucker Drive; thence West along the South line of Tucker Drive 215.93
feet; thence Southparallel with said East line of the Southwest'/4 of the Northwest'/4,
495.90 feet to the North right-of--way line of the Indiana Northern Railway Company;
thence Easterly along said North right=of--way line, 860.23 feet to the West edge of Steel
Warehouse Co. Inds building; thence North along said West edge of building, 172.0 feet;
thence Westerly parallel with the North right-of--way line of the Indiana Northern
Railway Company, 79.3 feet to the point of beginning, containing 5.0 acres, more or less.
A part of the Southwest Quarter of the Northwest Quarter of Section 15,
Township 37 North, Range 2 East in the City of South Bend, Indiana, more particularly
described as follows:
Beginning at a point 260 feet South and 25 feet West of the Northeast corner of
said Southwest Quarter of the Northwest Quarter; thence West 540 feet; thence South
parallel with the East line of said Southwest Quarter of the Northwest Quarter, 324.25
feet to a point 172 feet North of the North line of the right-of--way of the Indiana
Northern Railway Company; thence East parallel with said North line of said right-of-
way, 540 feet; thence North parallel with the East line of said Southwest Quarter of the
Northwest Quarter, 320.75 feet to the place of beginning.
A tract of land in the West Half (1/2) of the Northwest Quarter (1/4) of Section
Fifteen (15), Township Thirty-seven (37) North, Range Two (2) East, now within and a
part of the City of South Bend, St. Joseph County, Indiana, more particularly described as
follows:
Beginning at the center of the Northwest Quarter (1/4) of said Section Fifteen(15);
thence South along the North and South center line of said Quarter Section Two Hundred
Twenty (220) feet to the North line of Tucker Drive; thence West along said North line
to the West line of said Section Fifteen (15); thence North along said West line One
Hundred Twenty-eight and One Tenth (128.1) feet, more or less, to a line Two Hundred
Fifty (250) feet by rectangular measurement Southeasterly from said original centerline
of the New York Central Railroad right-of--way; thence Northeasterly parallel to the Two
Hundred Fifty (250) feet by rectangular measurement Southeasterly from said original
centerline of the New York Central Railroad right-of--way, Seven Hundred Twenty-seven
and One One-Hundredth (727.01) feet, more or less, to a point on the East line of the
Southwest Quarter (1/4) of the Northwest quarter (1/4) of the Northwest Quarter (1/4) of
Section Fifteen (15); thence Southerly along said East line One Hundred Ninety-nine and
Eighty-six Hundredths (199.86) feet, more or less, to the South line of the Northwest
Quarter (1/4) of the Northwest Quarter (1/4) of Section Fifteen (15); thence East along
said South line Six Hundred Sixty-three and fifty-two hundredths (663.52) feet, more or
less, to the place of beginning, excepting Thirty (30) feet off the East side thereof for
purposes of a public highway.
A lot or parcel of land situated in the Northwest quarter of Section 15, Township
37 North, Range 2 East, now within and a part of the City of south Bend, bounded by a
line running as follows, to -wit: Beginning at a point on the North line of the Southeast
Quarter of the Northwest Quarter of said Section 15,600 feet West of the Northeast
corner of the Southeast Quarter of the Northwest Quarter of said Section 15; thence
running West along said North line a distance 725.8 feet to the Northwest corner of said
Southeast Quarter of said Northwest Quarter; thence South a distance 220 feet, more or
less, to the North line of a 40 foot road known as Tucker Drive; thence East along the
19
REGULAR MEETING
SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
North line of said roadway to a point due South of the place of beginning; thence North
to the place of beginning. Together with and subject to an easement over the 40 foot
roadway lying immediately South of the above described real estate known as Tucker
Drive, and extending Eastward to Olive Street.
Part of the Southeast Quarter (1/4) of the Northwest Quarter (1/4) of Section
Fifteen (15), Township Thirty-seven (37) North, Range Two (2) East, now within and a
part of the City of South Bend, described as beginning at a point 260 feet South of the
Northwest corner of the Southeast Quarter (1/4) of the Northwest Quarter (1/4) of said
Section fifteen (15); thence South 492.9 feet to the North line of the right-of--way of the
Indiana Northern Railroad; thence East along the said North line of the right-of--way of
the Indiana Northern Railroad 305 feet; thence North 492.9 feet; thence West 305 feet to
the place of beginning.
Together with aright-of--way over a 40 foot roadway North of and adjoining the
aforedescribed tract, and continuing Easterly to Olive Street, which said 40 foot roadway
is now commonly known as Tucker Drive in said City of South Bend.
The East Half of the South East Quarter of the North East Quarter of Section No.
16, Township No. 37 North, Range No. 2 East, containing 20 acres, more or less, and
being Lot No. 16 in the Sub-division of said Section No. 16, and now within a part of the
City of South Bend, excepting there from the following:
The original right-of--way across, the North West corner heretofore conveyed by
Joseph B. Arnold, to the Indiana Illinois, and Iowa Railway Company by Warranty Deed
dated August 21, 1894 and recorded in Deed Record 95, page 553, of the records of St.
Joseph County, Indiana, and excepting second the following: Beginning at a point on the
West line of said Lot Numbered 16, where the same is intersected by the South Easterly
line of said original right-of--way, thence running South on the west line of Lot Numbered
16, 219 feet, more or less, to a point distance 250 feet by rectangular measurement from
the original center line of said right-of--way; thence North Easterly parallel with and 205
feet distant by rectangular measurement from the original center line of said right-of--way
a distance of 733.3 feet, more or less, to a point on the East line of said Section No. 16,
thence North on said East line, a distance of 105.5 feet, more or less, to the North East
corner of said Lot No. 16; thence West along the North line of said Lot No. 16, thence
North on said East line, a distance of 105.5 feet, more or less, to the North East corner of
said Lot No 16; thence West along the North line of said Lot No. 16, a distance 254.5
feet, more or less, to the intersection with the said Easterly line of said original right-of-
way; thence South Westerly with said Easterly line a distance 454.5 feet, more or less, to
the place of beginning, containing 3.04 acres, more or less; excepting third, all that part
of said lot no. 16 which lies South of the North line of the right-of--way of the St. Joseph,
South Bend and Southern Railroad Company, excepting fourth, a strip of land 70 feet
wide North and South lying next north of and adjoining the right-of--way of the St.
Joseph, South Bend and Southern Railroad Company; excepting further that a strip of 40
feet in width, North and South, and being a extension of Tucker Drive, shall be
established through the Northerly part of said tract and dedicated to the public as a
highway, which said extension shall extend to the right-of--way of the New York Central
Railroad Company.
All that part of the Southwest Quarter of the Northwest Quarter of Section 15,
Township 37 North, Range 2 East, described as follows: Beginning at a point 260 feet
South and 330 feet West of the Northeast corner of the said Southwest Quarter of the
Northwest Quarter; thence West 996.08 feet to the West line of said section; thence South
498.35 feet to the North line of the right-of--way of the Indiana Northern Railway
Company; thence Easterly along the said Northerly line of said Indiana Northern Railway
Company a distance of 996.08 feet, more or less, to a point on the Northerly line of the
said Indiana Northern Railway Company South of the place of beginning; thence North
to the place of beginning.
Beginning in the center line of Olive Street in said City at a point Seven Hundred
Eighteen and twenty-five hundredths (718.25) feet South of the North line of said Section
20
REGULAR MEETING SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
No. 15, said point of beginning being on the Southerly line of a strip of land fifty(50)
feet wide reserved for the right of way of the Indiana Northern Railroad Company thence
running South on the center line of Olive Street, a distance of Six Hundred Eight and
fifteen-hundredths (608.15) feet to the South east corner of said North East quarter of the
North West quarter of Section No. 15; thence running West on said South line, a distance
of Thirteen Hundred twenty-seven (1327) feet to the West line of said quarter Section,
thence North on said West line, a distance of Four Hundred Ninety-three and four
hundredths (493.04) feet to the Southerly line of said parcel deeded by said Grantors to
the New York Central Railway Company; thence North Easterly along the Southerly line
of said last named parcel to a point on the South line or the right of way of the Indiana
Northern Railroad Company due West of the place of beginning: thence East ten hundred
Fifty-seven and Thirteen-hundredths (1057.13) feet, more or less, to the place of
beginning and containing Seventeen and seven hundred Sixty-one thousandths (17.761)
acres, exclusive of Olive Street.
All that part of the East Half of the North West Quarter of the North West Quarter
of Section No. 15, Township No. 37 North, Range No. 2 East, that lies South of the right-
of-way of the Indiana, Illinois, and Iowa Railroad Company (now New York Central
Railroad), now within and a part of the City of South Bend; excepting there from a lot or
parcel of land bounded as follows:
Beginning at the intersection of the South Easterly line of said right-of--way and
the East line of the East Half of the Northwest Quarter of the North West Quarter of said
Section No. 15, thence running South Westerly along the South Easterly line of said
right-of--way to the West line of the East Half of the North West Quarter of the North
West Quarter of said Section; thence running South 219 feet, more or less, to a point
thence North Easterly parallel with and 219 feet South of the Southerly line of said right-
of-way to the East line of the East Half of the North West Quarter of the North West
Quarter of said Section No. 15; thence North 219 feet, more or less, to the place of
beginning.
and which have Key Numbers 18-8075-2838, 18-8075-2839, 18-8075-2843, 18-8075-
2844.03, 18-8075-2844.04, 18-8075-2844.06, 18-8075-2845.01, 18-8075-2845.02, 18-
8075-2845.03, be designated as an Economic Revitalization Area under the provisions of
Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1 et seq., and South Bend Municipal Code Sections 2-76 et seq.,
and;
WHEREAS, notice of the adoption of a Declaratory Resolution and the public
hearing before the Council has been published pursuant to Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1-2.5;
and
WHEREAS, the Council held a public hearing for the purposes of hearing all
remonstrance's and objections from interested persons; and
WHEREAS, the Council has determined that the qualifications for an economic
revitalization area have been met
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Common Council of the City of
South Bend, Indiana, as follows:
SECTION L The Common Council hereby confirms its Declaratory Resolution
designating the area described herein as an Economic Revitalization Area for the
Purposes of tax abatement. Such designation is for Personal property tax abatement only
and is limited to two (2) calendar years from the date of adoption of the Declaratory
Resolution by the Common Council.
SECTION IL The Common Council hereby determines that the property owner is
qualified for and is granted Personal property tax deduction for a period of five (5) years,
and further determines that the petition complies with Chapter 2, Article 6, of the
Municipal Code of the City of South Bend, and Indiana Code 6-1.1-12 et seq.
21
REGULAR MEETING
SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
SECTION III. This Resolution shall be in full force and effect from and after its
adoption by the Common Council and approved by the Mayor.
s/Timothy A. Rouse
Member of the Common Council
RESOLUTION NO. 3792-07 A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE
ADOPTION OF A DECLARATORY
RESOLUTION DESIGNATING CERTAIN
AREAS WITHIN THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND,
INDIANA, COMMONLY KNOWN AS 1400
RIVERSIDE DRIVE, SOUTH BEND, INDIANA
TO BE AN ECONOMIC REVITALIZATION
AREA FOR PURPOSES OF A FIVE (5) YEAR
PERSONAL PROPERTY TAX ABATEMENT
FOR STEEL WAREHOUSE COMPANY LLC
WHEREAS, the Common Council of the City of South Bend, Indiana, has
adopted a Declaratory Resolution designating certain areas within the City as Economic
Revitalization Areas for the purpose of tax abatement consideration; and
WHEREAS, a Declaratory Resolution designated the area commonly known as
1400 Riverside Drive, South Bend, Indiana, and which is more particularly described as
follows:
Beginning at the Southeast corner of the Southwest'/4 of said, section 35; thence
South 89 49'52" West (bearing assumed) along the South line of said section, 308.97
feet; thence North 89 55'00" West, 116.24 feet; thence North 00 00'27" West, 12.00 feet
to the North line of a 12 foot alley; thence North 89 55'00" West along said North line of
alley, the East line of Kessler Boulevard, 128.00 feet South 89 55' 18" East of the
Northeast addition to the City of South Bend recorded Apri16, 1906 in Plat Book 0,
pages 30 and 31; thence South 89 55' 18" East along the South line of King Street, 352.84
feet; thence North 00 00'27" West, 194.85 feet to a point the centerline of the East and
West 14 foot alley between King Street and McCartney Street produced East; thence
North 00 06'09" East, 128.81 feet; thence North 89 46'49" East 287.05 feet to the
Westerly line of Riverside Drive; thence South 16 37' 15" West along a chord subtending
said Westerly line of Riverside Drive, 455.43 feet to the South line said section 35;
thence North 90 00'00" West along said South line, 156.71 feet to the point of the
beginning.
Commencing at the Southeast corner of the '/4 of said section 35; thence North 00
00'30" West (bearing assumed) along the East line of said Southwest 1/4 a distance of
463.14 feet to the Point of Beginning for the following described tract; thence continuing
North 00 00'30" West along said East line 336.00 feet to the South line of Queen Street;
thence south 89 56'09" West along said South line of Queen Street 176.60 feet, thence
North 00 02'36" Est. 195.00 feet to the centerline of the East and West 14 foot alley
between Kinyon Street and Queen Street; thence South 89 56'09" West along said
centerline of alley, 131.27 feet; thence South 00 06'09" West along the East line of Lot
145 in the Third Plot of Northwest Addition recorded March 7, 1907 in Plat Book 9, page
60 in the Office of the St. Joseph County Recorder and its Northerly and Southerly
extensions, 195.00 feet to the South line of Queen Street thence South 89 56'09" West
along Allen Street; thence South 00 05'51" West along said East line of Allen Street,
329.87 feet to the South line of McCartney Street; thence South 89 58'27" East along
said South line of McCartney Street, 12.91 feet; thence South 00 06'09" West 6.11 feet;
thence North 89 56'09" East 308.71 feet to the Point of beginning.
and which have Key Numbers 18-2110-4065 and 18-2110-4067, as an Economic
Revitalization Area, and
22
REGULAR MEETING
SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
WHEREAS, notice of the adoption of a Declaratory Resolution and the public
hearing before the Council has been published pursuant to Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1-2.5;
and
WHEREAS, the Council held a public hearing for the purposes of hearing all
remonstrance's and objections from interested persons; and
WHEREAS, the Council has determined that the qualifications for an economic
revitalization area have been met
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Common Council of the City of
South Bend, Indiana, as follows:
SECTION L The Common Council hereby confirms its Declaratory Resolution
designating the area described herein as an Economic Revitalization Area for the
Purposes of tax abatement. Such designation is for Personal property tax abatement only
and is limited to two (2) calendar years from the date of adoption of the Declaratory
Resolution by the Common Council.
SECTION IL The Common Council hereby determines that the property owner is
qualified for and is granted Personal property tax deduction for a period of five (5) years,
and further determines that the petition complies with Chapter 2, Article 6, of the
Municipal Code of the City of South Bend, and Indiana Code 6-1.1-12 et seq.
SECTION III. This Resolution shall be in full force and effect from and after its
adoption by the Common Council and approved by the Mayor.
s/Timothy A. Rouse
Member of the Common Council
RESOLUTION NO. 3793-07 A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE
ADOPTION OF A DECLARATORY
RESOLUTION DESIGNATING CERTAIN
AREAS WITHIN THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND,
INDIANA, COMMONLY KNOWN AS 1217 AND
1215 SOUTH WALNUT STREET, SOUTH
BEND, INDIANA TO BE AN ECONOMIC
REVITALIZATION AREA FOR PURPOSES OF
A FIVE (5) YEAR PERSONAL PROPERTY TAX
ABATEMENT FOR STEEL WAREHOUSE
COMPANY LLC
WHEREAS, the Common Council of the City of South Bend, Indiana, has
adopted a Declaratory Resolution designating certain areas within the City as Economic
Revitalization Areas for the purpose of tax abatement consideration; and
WHEREAS, a Declaratory Resolution designated the area commonly known as
1217 and 1215 South Walnut Street, South Bend, Indiana, and which is more particularly
described as follows:
A tract of land in the City of South Bend, County of St. Joseph, and State of
Indiana, situated in the Northwest Quarter of Section 14, and the Northeast Quarter of
Section 15, Township 37 North, Range 2 East, bounded by the following described line:
Beginning at a point in the West line of Walnut Street, 1239.70 feet South of the South
line of Sample Street, which point is 587.95 feet South of the South line of the Sanders
and Egbert Tract, as conveyed by deeds recorded in Deed Record 118, page 428 and
Deed Record 121, page 320; thence on an assumed bearing of South 0 00'49" East along
23
REGULAR MEETING
SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
said West line of Walnut Street, 479.91 feet; thence South 89 54' 12" West, 725.03 feet;
thence South 61 54' 12" West, 42.91 feet; thence South 89 23'32" West 437.13 feet;
thence North 0 00'49" West parallel with said West line of Walnut Street, 504.26 feet;
thence North 89 55'05" East, 1200 feet to the place of beginning.
A tract of land in the City of South Bend, County of St. Joseph, and State of
Indiana, situated in the Northwest'/4 of Section 14, and the Northeast'/4 of Section 15,
Township 37 North, Range 2 East, bounded by the following described line: Beginning
at a point in the West line of Walnut Street, 682.75 feet south of the South line of Sample
Street, which point is 31 feet South of the South line of the Sanders and Egbert Tract, as
conveyed by deeds recorded in Deed Record 118, page 428 and Deed Record 121, page
320; thence on an assumed bearing of South 0 00'49" East along said West line of
Walnut Street, 556.95 feet; thence South 89 55'05" West, 1200 feet; thence North 0
00'49" West parallel with said West line of Walnut Street, 589.19 feet to a point 651.75
feet South of the South line of Sample Street or the produced South line of the tract
conveyed of F.C. Raff, recorded in Deed Record 172 page 641; thence South 89 57' 10"
East along the South line above described tract produced East, 295 feet; thence South 0
00'49" East parallel with the West line of Walnut Street, 31 feet; thence North 89 57' 16"
East, 905 feet to the place of beginning, containing 15.565 acres, more or less.
and which have Key Numbers 18-8021-0845.03 and 18-8021-0845.04 as an Economic
Revitalization Area, and
WHEREAS, notice of the adoption of a Declaratory Resolution and the public
hearing before the Council has been published pursuant to Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1-2.5;
and
WHEREAS, the Council held a public hearing for the purposes of hearing all
remonstrance's and objections from interested persons; and
WHEREAS, the Council has determined that the qualifications for an economic
revitalization area have been met
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Common Council of the City of
South Bend, Indiana, as follows:
SECTION L The Common Council hereby confirms its Declaratory Resolution
designating the area described herein as an Economic Revitalization Area for the
Purposes of tax abatement. Such designation is for Personal property tax abatement only
and is limited to two (2) calendar years from the date of adoption of the Declaratory
Resolution by the Common Council.
SECTION IL The Common Council hereby determines that the property owner is
qualified for and is granted Personal property tax deduction for a period of five (5) years,
and further determines that the petition complies with Chapter 2, Article 6, of the
Municipal Code of the City of South Bend, and Indiana Code 6-1.1-12 et seq.
SECTION III. This Resolution shall be in full force and effect from and after its
adoption by the Common Council and approved by the Mayor.
s/Timothy A. Rouse
Member of the Common Council
Mr. Gerald Lerman, Vice-President/Treasurer, Steel Warehouse Company LLC, South
Bend, Indiana, made the presentation on these resolutions.
Mr. Lerman advised that Steel Warehouse Company LLC is a steel service center with a
primary focus on flat rolled, low carbon steel with operations involving slitting, leveling,
pickling, shearing, temper rolling, and cold reducing. The petitioner also supplies
profiling parts through its plasma and laser cutting operations. In connection with its
24
REGULAR MEETING SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
operations, the company takes substantial positions in steel and steel products for the
future sale and marketing of the same to its customers. Mr. Lerman stated that the
property at 2722 W. Tucker involves the acquisition of equipment for manufacturing,
servicing, processing and material handling of steel and steel products, having a total cost
expected to be from #2,500,000 to $5,000,000. The acquisition will enable the company
to add capacity to and to modernize its existing manufacturing equipment and facilities at
this location. The property at 1400 W. Riverside is for the acquisition of equipment for
manufacturing, servicing and processing equipment having a total cost between
$1,500,000 and $$3,500,000. The acquisition will enable the company to add capacity to
plasma and laser cutting manufacturing equipment at the Riverside location. The
property at 1217 and 1215 S. Walnut involves the acquisition of manufacturing
equipment having a total cost expected to be from $400,000 to $2,500,000. The
acquisition will permit the company to add capacity to its tool steel operations. The total
investment for the three projects is estimated to be between $4,400,000 and $11,000,000.
The amount of the final investment will depend on a number of factors including trends
in the demand for Steel Warehouse's products and the cost and availability of needed
equipment. It is estimated that the projects will create up to five (5) new permanent full
time jobs at the Tucker location, four (4) to twelve (12) at the Riverside location and
from five (5) to twenty-five (25) jobs at the Walnut location representing new annual
payrolls of $156,000, $130,400 to $391,200 and $156,000 to $780,000 respectively at the
three facilities. The project is also expected to retain a total of four hundred and eight-
one (481) full-time jobs, representing an annual payroll of $22,707,500 at the facilities.
A Public Hearing was held on the Resolution at this time.
There being no one present wishing to speak to the Council either in favor of or in
opposition to these Resolutions.
Councilmember Varner made a motion to adopt Resolution No. 07-105. Councilmember
Kelly seconded the motion which carried and the Resolution was adopted by a roll call
vote of seven (7) ayes.
Councilmember Varner made a motion to adopt Resolution No. 07-106. Councilmember
Kuspa seconded the motion which carried and the Resolution was adopted by a roll call
vote of seven (7) ayes.
Councilmember Dieter made a motion to adopt Resolution No. 07-107. Councilmember
Kelly seconded the motion which carried and the Resolution was adopted by a roll call
vote of seven (7) ayes.
RESOLUTION NO. 3794-07 A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE
ADOPTION OF A DECLARATORY
RESOLUTION DESIGNATING CERTAIN
AREAS WITHIN THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND,
INDIANA, COMMONLY KNOWN AS 3722
FOUNDATION COURT AS AN ECONOMIC
REVITALIZATION AREA FOR PURPOSES OF
A FIVE (5) YEAR PERSONAL PROPERTY TAX
ABATEMENT FOR IMAGINEERING
ENTERPRISES, INC.
WHEREAS, the Common Council of the City of South Bend, Indiana, has
adopted a Declaratory Resolution designating certain areas within the City as Economic
Revitalization Areas for the purpose of tax abatement consideration; and
WHEREAS, a Declaratory Resolution designated the area commonly known as
3722 Foundation Court, South Bend, Indiana, and which is more particularly described as
follows:
25
REGULAR MEETING SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
and which has Key Number 025-1010-040018, as an Economic Revitalization Area, and
WHEREAS, notice of the adoption of a Declaratory Resolution and the public
hearing before the Council has been published pursuant to Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1-2.5;
and
WHEREAS, the Council held a public hearing for the purposes of hearing all
remonstrance's and objections from interested persons; and
WHEREAS, the Council has determined that the qualifications for an economic
revitalization area have been met.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Common Council of the City of
South Bend, Indiana, as follows:
SECTION L The Common Council hereby confirms its Declaratory Resolution
designating the area described herein as an Economic Revitalization Area for the
purposes of tax abatement. Such designation is for Personal property tax abatement only
and is limited to two (2) calendar years from the date of adoption of the Declaratory
Resolution by the Common Council.
SECTION IL The Common Council hereby determines that the property owner is
qualified for and is granted Personal property tax deduction for a period of (5) five years,
and further determines that the petition, the Memorandum of Agreement between the
Petitioner and the City of South Bend, and the Statement of Benefits comply with
Chapter 2, Article 6, of the Municipal Code of the City of South Bend and Indiana Code
6-1.1-12 et seq.
SECTION V. This Resolution shall be in full force and effect from and after its adoption
by the Common Council and approved by the Mayor.
s/Timothy A. Rouse
Member of the Common Council
Mr. Don Kratz, Executive Vice President, Imagineering Enterprises, Inc., 3702 W
Sample Street, South Bend, Indiana, made the presentation for this bill.
Mr. Kratz advised that Imagineering Enterprises, Inc. intends to acquire a vacant 59,000
square foot building at 3722 Foundation Court, South Bend, Indiana. The acquired
building will be the processing facility ad office of their operation in South Bend. The
estimated total cost of the project is $5.1 million with new equipment being installed at a
cost of $3.5 million. The processing facility will provide electroless nickel plating ,
phosphate coatings, passivation processes, non destruction testing and quality assurance
testing for client's components as the final step in the manufacturing process. The new
equipment for the manufacturing process will include lab equipment, wet processing and
phosphate passivation equipment, paint line, NDT equipment, and waste treatment
equipment. Mr. Kratz stated that he estimates that the total project will create six (6)
new, permanent, full-time jobs over the next year with an estimated new annual payroll
of $190,000. The project will also maintain sixty-nine (69) existing, permanent, full-time
jobs and two (2) existing, permanent, part-time jobs representing an annual payroll of
$2,697,738.
A Public Hearing was held on the Resolution at this time. There being no one present
wishing to speak to the Council either in favor of or in opposition to this Resolution,
Councilmember Dieter made a motion to adopt this Resolution. Councilmember Kelly
26
REGULAR MEETING
SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
seconded the motion which carried and the Resolution was adopted by a roll call vote of
seven (7) ayes.
BILL NO. 07-114 A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE
ADOPTION OF A DECLARATORY
RESOLUTION DESIGNATING CERTAIN
AREAS WITHIN THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND,
INDIANA, COMMONLY KNOWN AS 2500
GREEN TECH DRIVE AS AN ECONOMIC
REVITALIZATION AREA FOR PURPOSES OF
A TEN (10) YEAR REAL PROPERTY TAX
ABATEMENT FOR MOTHER EARTH, LLC
(GREEN TECH TRANSFER & RECYCLING
LLC
BILL NO. 07-115 A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE
ADOPTION OF A DECLARATORY
RESOLUTION DESIGNATING CERTAIN
AREAS WITHIN THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND,
INDIANA, COMMONLY KNOWN AS 2500
GREEN TECH DRIVE TO E AN ECONOMIC
REVITALIZATION AREA FOR PURPOSES OF
A FIVE (5) YEAR PERSONAL PROPERTY TAX
ABATEMENT FOR GREEN TECH TRANSFER
& RECYCLING LLC
Councilmember Dieter made a motion to combine these bills for purposes of Public
Hearing. Councilmember White seconded the motion which carried by a voice vote of
seven (7) ayes.
RESOLUTION NO. 3795-07 A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE
ADOPTION OF A DECLARATORY
RESOLUTION DESIGNATING CERTAIN
AREAS WITHIN THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND,
INDIANA, COMMONLY KNOWN AS 2500
GREEN TECH DRIVE AS AN ECONOMIC
REVITALIZATION AREA FOR PURPOSES OF
A TEN (10) YEAR REAL PROPERTY TAX
ABATEMENT FOR MOTHER EARTH, LLC
(GREEN TECH TRANSFER & RECYCLING
LLC
WHEREAS, the Common Council of the City of South Bend, Indiana, has
adopted a Declaratory Resolution designating certain areas within the City as Economic
Revitalization Areas for the purpose of tax abatement consideration; and
WHEREAS, a Declaratory Resolution designated the area commonly known as
2500 Green Tech Drive, South Bend, Indiana, and which is more particularly described
as follows:
That part of the Northeast Quarter of Section 23, Township 37 North,
Range 2 East, Portage Township, City of South Bend, St Joseph County,
Indiana, which is described as Beginning at a point on the East line of said
quarter section which is N. 00 degrees-32"-42"E., 633.94 feet from the
Southeast corner of said Northeast Quarter, thence North 89 degrees-32'-
08"W. adistance of 513.91 feet; thence N. 00 degrees-37'-40" E. a
distance of 92.64 feet; thence N. 89 degrees-32'-08 W. a distance of
27
REGULAR MEETING
SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
280.00 feet; thence N. 00 degrees- 37'-40" E. a distance of 467.98 feet;
thence S. 89 degrees-26'-14" E. a distance of 197.94 feet, thence N. O1
degrees-49'-53" E. a distance of 32.63 feet; thence S. 89 degrees-15'-43"
E. a distance of 46.11 feet; thence S. 89 degrees- 26'-14" E. a distance of
548.32 feet to the East line of said Northeast Quarter, thence S. 00
degrees-32'-42" W. along said East line a distance of 591.88 feet to the
point of beginning containing 10.05 acres.
and which has no Key Number presently, as an Economic Revitalization Area; and
WHEREAS, notice of the adoption of a Declaratory Resolution and the public
hearing before the Council has been published pursuant to Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1-2.5;
and
WHEREAS, the Council held a public hearing for the purposes of hearing all
remonstrance's and objections from interested persons; and
WHEREAS, the Council has determined that the qualifications for an economic
revitalization area have been met.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Common Council of the City of
South Bend, Indiana, as follows:
SECTION L The Common Council hereby confirms its Declaratory Resolution
designating the area described herein as an Economic Revitalization Area for the
purposes of tax abatement. Such designation is for Real property tax abatement only and
is limited to two (2) calendar years from the date of adoption of the Declaratory
Resolution by the Common Council.
SECTION IL The Common Council hereby determines that the property owner is
qualified for and is granted Real property tax deduction for a period of ten (10) years, and
further determines that the petition, the Memorandum of Agreement between the
Petitioner and the City of South Bend, and the Statement of Benefits comply with
Chapter 2, Article 6, of the Municipal Code of the City of South Bend and Indiana Code
6-1.1-12 et seq.
SECTION III. This Resolution shall be in full force and effect from and after its
adoption by the Common Council and approved by the Mayor.
s/Timothy A. Rouse
Member of the Common Council
RESOLUTION NO. 3796-07 A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE
ADOPTION OF A DECLARATORY
RESOLUTION DESIGNATING CERTAIN
AREAS WITHIN THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND,
INDIANA, COMMONLY KNOWN AS 2500
GREEN TECH DRIVE TO E AN ECONOMIC
REVITALIZATION AREA FOR PURPOSES OF
A FIVE (5) YEAR PERSONAL PROPERTY TAX
ABATEMENT FOR GREEN TECH TRANSFER
& RECYCLING LLC
WHEREAS, the Common Council of the City of South Bend, Indiana, has
adopted a Declaratory Resolution designating certain areas within the City as Economic
Revitalization Areas for the purpose of tax abatement consideration; and
28
REGULAR MEETING SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
WHEREAS, a Declaratory Resolution designated the area commonly known as
2500 Green Tech Drive, South Bend, Indiana, and which is more particularly described
as follows:
That part of the Northeast Quarter of Section 23, Township 37 North,
Range 2 East, Portage Township, City of South Bend, St Joseph County,
Indiana, which is described as Beginning at a point on the East line of said
quarter section which is N. 00 degrees-32"-42"E., 633.94 feet from the
Southeast corner of said Northeast Quarter, thence North 89 degrees-32'-
08"W. adistance of 513.91 feet; thence N. 00 degrees-37'-40" E. a
distance of 92.64 feet; thence N. 89 degrees-32'-08 W. a distance of
280.00 feet; thence N. 00 degrees- 37'-40" E. a distance of 467.98 feet;
thence S. 89 degrees-26'-14" E. a distance of 197.94 feet, thence N. O1
degrees-49'-53" E. a distance of 32.63 feet; thence S. 89 degrees-15'-43"
E. a distance of 46.11 feet; thence S. 89 degrees- 26'-14" E. a distance of
548.32 feet to the East line of said Northeast Quarter, thence S. 00
degrees-32'-42" W. along said East line a distance of 591.88 feet to the
point of beginning containing 10.05 acres.
and which has no Tax Key Number presently, as an Economic Revitalization Area, and
WHEREAS, notice of the adoption of a Declaratory Resolution and the public
hearing before the Council has been published pursuant to Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1-2.5;
and
WHEREAS, the Council held a public hearing for the purposes of hearing all
remonstrance's and objections from interested persons; and
WHEREAS, the Council has determined that the qualifications for an economic
revitalization area have been met.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Common Council of the City of
South Bend, Indiana, as follows:
SECTION L The Common Council hereby confirms its Declaratory Resolution
designating the area described herein as an Economic Revitalization Area for the
purposes of tax abatement. Such designation is for Personal property tax abatement only
and is limited to two (2) calendar years from the date of adoption of the Declaratory
Resolution by the Common Council.
SECTION IL The Common Council hereby determines that the property owner is
qualified for and is granted Personal property tax deduction for a period of five (5) years,
and further determines that the petition complies with Chapter 2, Article 6, of the
Municipal Code of the City of South Bend and Indiana Code 6-1.1-12 et sec .
SECTION III. This Resolution shall be in full force and effect from and after its
adoption by the Common Council and approved by the Mayor.
s/Timothy A. Rouse
Member of the Common Council
Mr. Mike Morris, 2500 Green Tech Drive, South Bend, Indiana, made the presentation
for this bill.
Mr. Morris stated that Green Tech Transfer & Recycling LLC/Mother Earth, LLC are
proposing to develop a 10.05 acre Brownfield Development site as astate-of-the-art trash
recycling/transfer facility. The site is currently owned by St. Joseph County because of
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REGULAR MEETING
SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
back property tax collection issues with the site. It will be purchased by Mother Earth
and leased to Green Tech. The project is on the former Studebaker Plant 8 site off of
Ewing Avenue. The prior decaying building on the site is being 98% recycled upon
deconstruction. Anew 52,800 sq. ft. processing facility will be constructed. The
estimated cost of the new building, driveways and storage infrastructure is $1,608,000.
The amount of waste that will be converted annually in the facility is estimated at
8,400,000 pounds. Material brought to the transfer station will be unloaded onto the
tipping floor, inspected and sorted. Recyclable material will be moved to automatic and
manual sorting conveyor and baler systems to be processed and marketed. Non-
recyclable material will be transported to approved landfills. Green Tech will own the
equipment that will be used in the facility that will consist of a 70 foot by 10 foot steel
deck truck scale, ramps, wiring, control panels with scale house, automatic sorting
conveyor, product balers, platform scale, material handlers, and computer systems. Mr.
Morris estimated that the total project will create nine (9) new, permanent, full-time jobs
representing a new annual payroll of $217,256. The project is developing a completely
new facility and, therefore, does not have any existing employees.
A Public Hearing was held on the Resolutions at this time.
There being no one present wishing to speak to the Council either in favor of or in
opposition to these Resolutions.
Councilmember Dieter made a motion to adopt Bill No. 07-114. Councilmember Kelly
seconded the motion which carried and the Resolution was adopted by a roll call vote of
seven (7) ayes.
Councilmember Varner made a motion to adopt Bill No. 07-115. Councilmember Kuspa
seconded the motion which carried and the Resolution was adopted by a roll call vote of
seven (7) ayes.
RESOLUTION NO. 3797-07 A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND
DESIGNATING CERTAIN AREAS WITHIN THE
CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA,
COMMONLY KNOWN AS 1247 HOWARD
STREET AS RESIDENTIALLY DISTRESSED
AREAS FOR PURPOSES OF A FIVE (5) YEAR
RESIDENTIAL REAL PROPERTY TAX
ABATEMENT FOR HABITAT FOR Ht.JMANITY
WHEREAS, a Statement of Benefits and a petition for residential real property
tax abatement have been submitted to and filed with the City Clerk for consideration by
the Common Council of the City of South Bend, Indiana, requesting that the area
commonly known as 1247 Howard Street, South Bend, Indiana, and which is more
particularly described as follows:
Lot 29 Talbots Plat
and this property has Tax Key Number 18-5095-3359 be designated as a Residentially
Distressed Area under the provisions of Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1 et sea., and South Bend
Municipal Code Sections 2-76 et seq., and;
WHEREAS, the Department of Community and Economic Development has
concluded an investigation and prepared a report with information sufficient for the
Common Council to determine that the area qualifies as a Residentially Distressed Area
under Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1, et sec ., and South Bend Municipal Code Sections 2-76, et
sec ., and has further prepared maps and plats showing the boundaries and such other
information regarding the area in question as required by law; and
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REGULAR MEETING
SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
WHEREAS, the Community and Economic Development Committee of the
Common Council has reviewed said report and recommended to the Common Council
that the area qualifies as a Residentially Distressed Area.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Common Council of the City of
South Bend, Indiana, as follows:
SECTION L The Common Council hereby determines and finds that the petition for real
property tax abatement and the Statement of Benefits form meet the requirements of
Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1 et seq., for tax abatement.
SECTION IL The Common Council hereby determines and finds that the area meets one
of the following conditions as formally established in Ordinance No. 9394-03, which was
passed on February 10, 2003:
A. The area is comprised of parcels that are either unimproved or contain
only one (1) or two (2) family dwellings designed for up to four (4)
families, including accessory buildings for those dwellings; or
B. Any dwellings in the area are not permanently occupied and are:
i. the subject of an order issued under IC 36-7-9; or
ii. evidencing significant building deficiencies; or
C. Parcels of property in the area:
i. have been sold and not redeemed under IC 6-1.1-24 and IC 6-1.1-25;
or
ii. are owned by a unit of local government; or
D. A significant number of dwelling units within the area are not permanently
occupied or a significant number of parcels in the area are vacant land; or
E. A significant number of dwelling units within the area are:
i. the subject of an order issued under IC 36-7-9; or
ii. evidencing significant building deficiencies; or
F. The area has experienced a net loss in the number of dwelling units, as
documented by census information, local building and demolition permits,
or certificates of occupancy, or the areas are owned by Indiana or the
United States; or,
G. The area (plus any areas previously designated under this subsection) will
not exceed ten percent (10%) of the total area within the Council's
jurisdiction.
SECTION III. The Common Council also hereby determines and finds the following:
A. That the description of the proposed redevelopment meets the applicable
standards for such development.
B. That the estimate of the value of the redevelopment is reasonable for
projects of this nature;
C. That the other benefits about which information was requested are benefits
that can be reasonably expected to result from the proposed described
redevelopment; and
D. That the totality of benefits is sufficient to justify the requested deduction,
all of which satisfy the requirements of Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1-3.
E. The deduction will not be allowed unless the dwelling is rehabilitated to
meet local code standards for habitability.
F. The deduction will not be allowed unless the dwelling rehabilitation is
completed within five (5) calendar years from the date of the adoption of
this Resolution by the Common Council.
SECTION IV. The Common Council hereby determines and fmds that the proposed
described redevelopment can be reasonably expected to yield benefits identified in the
Statement of Benefits and the petition for real property tax abatement consideration and
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REGULAR MEETING SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
that the Statement of Benefits form prescribed by the State Board of Accounts are
sufficient to justify the deduction granted under Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1-3.
SECTION V. The Common Council hereby accepts the report and recommendation of
the Community and Economic Development Committee that the area herein described be
designated as a Residentially Distressed Area and hereby adopts a Resolution designating
this area as a Residentially Distressed Area for purposes of real property tax abatement.
SECTION VL The designation as a Residentially Distressed Area shall be limited to five
(5) calendar years from the date of the adoption of this Resolution by the Common
Council.
SECTION VII. The Common Council hereby determines that the property owner is
qualified for and is granted property tax deduction for a period of five (5) years.
SECTION VIII. The Common Council directs the City Clerk to cause notice of the
adoption of this Declaratory Resolution for Real Property Tax Abatement to be published
pursuant to Indiana Code 5-3-1 and Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1-2.5, said publication
providing notice of the public hearing before the Common Council on the proposed
confirming of said declaration.
SECTION IX. Pursuant to Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1-2, the rehabilitation must meet all
local code standards for habitability as a specific condition of having such property
designated as a residentially distressed area.
SECTION X. This Resolution shall be in full force and effect from and after its adoption
by the Common Council and approval by the Mayor.
s/Timothy A. Rouse
Member of the Common Council
Ms. Violet Schorsch, Habitat for Humanity of St. Joseph County, 402 E. South Street,
South Bend, Indiana made the presentation for this bill.
Ms. Schorsch advised that Habitat for Humanity plans to build a new, single-family
residence with three bedrooms and one bathroom. The home will have 1,120 square feet
and it will be built with afour-foot crawl space. Habitat will use volunteer labor and
donated materials to build the home. The price of the home will be $65,000.00. The lot
is currently owned by the City of South Bend. Habitat for Humanity intends to purchase
the lot, construct the house and then offer the property for sale to qualified, low-income
families using a no-interest loan and mortgage.
BILLS -FIRST READING
BILL NO. 63-07 FIRST READING ON A BILL OF THE
COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH
BEND, INDIANA APPROPRIATING $225,000
RECEIVED FROM THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF
JUSTICE FOR THE WEED & SEED PROGRAM
This bill had first reading. Councilmember Varner made a motion to refer this bill to the
Community and Economic Development Committee and set it for Public Hearing and
Third Reading on October 8, 2007. Councilmember Kuspa seconded the motion which
carried by a voice vote of seven (7) ayes.
BILL NO. 64-07 FIRST READING ON A BILL OF THE
COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH
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REGULAR MEETING SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
BEND, INDIANA, APPROPRIATING TWO
MILLION DOLLARS ($2,000,000.00) FROM
URBAN DEVELOPMENT ACTION GRANT
FUND NO. 410, AND ALLOCATING ONE
MILLION DOLLARS ~~l,ooo,ooo.oo~ To
POTAWATOMI ZOO AND ONE MILLION
DOLLARS ($1,000,000.00) TOTHE KROC
CENTER
This bill had first reading. Councilmember Varner made a motion to refer this bill to the
PARC Committee and set it for Public Hearing and Third Reading on October 8, 2007.
Councilmember Kuspa seconded the motion which carried by a voice vote of seen (7)
ayes.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
REPORTS FROM AREA PLAN COMMISSION
It is noted that the Council is in receipt of a recommendation from the Area Plan
Commission of St. Joseph County, for the following ordinances based on their Public
Hearing held on August 21, 2007:
BILL NO. 41-07 AN ORDINANCE OF THE COMMON COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA,
AMENDING CHAPTER 21 OF THE SOUTH
BEND MUNICIPAL CODE: ARTICLE 14,
SUBDIVISIONS, SECTION 21-14.05 MAJOR
SUBDIVISIONS TO REVISE THE APPROVAL
PROCESS FOR MAJOR SECONDARY
SUBDIVISION PLATS
REPORTS FROM AREA PLAN COMMISSION
It is noted that the Council is in receipt of a recommendation from the Area Plan
Commission of St. Joseph County, for the following ordinances based on their Public
Hearing held on September 18, 2007:
BILL NO. 52-07 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING
ORDINANCE FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT
827 EAST WAYNE STREET:
219,222,224,228,230 AND 231 SOUTH NOTRE
DAME AVENUE; AND VACANT PROPERTY
LYING EAST OF 222 AND 224 SOUTH NOTRE
DAME AVENUE AND VACANT PROPERTY
LYING SOUTH OF 219 SOUTH NOTRE DAME
AVENUE; COUNCILMANIC DISTRICT 4 IN
THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA
Councilmember Varner made a motion to refer these bills to the Zoning and Annexation
Committee and set them for Public Hearing and Third Reading on October 8, 2007.
Councilmember Kuspa seconded the motion which carried by a voice vote of seven (7)
ayes.
REQUEST TO WITHDRAW
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REGULAR MEETING
SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
BILL NO. 53-07 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING
ORDINANCE FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT
3030 NORTHSIDE BLVD., COUNCILMANIC
DISTRICT 3, IN THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND,
INDIANA
Councilmember Varner made a motion to strike Bill No. 53-07 at the request of the
petitioner. Councilmember Dieter seconded the motion which carried by a voice vote of
seven (7) ayes.
NEW BUSINESS
Council Vice-President Ann Puzzello stated that this will be the last broadcast of the
South Bend Common Council by Comcast.
Mr. Gary Gilot, Director, Public Works, 13~` Floor County-City Building, South Bend,
Indiana, noted that the City is looking into other options for public access to City Council
Meetings. He noted that Comcast is willing to let the City use their equipment, but not
provide the service. He stated that maybe an area college would have some type of
internship program that could provide this type of service.
PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR
COMIy1ENTS FROM MR. CLAY KUSBACH, 8TH GRADE STUDENT AT ST.
JOSEPH GRADE SCHOOL, SOUTH BEND, INDIANA, REGARDING PROPERTY
TAXES
Mr. Clay Kusbach, 54497 Longwood Drive, South Bend, Indiana, stated that he is in the
8~` Grade at St. Joseph Grade School and has lived in South Bend his entire life. He
stated that he hopes to go to high school and college here in town. Mr. Kusbach stated
that on Thursday afternoon an article caught his eye. In the 1980's South Bend was one
of the best places in the Mid-West. That is why his Kusbach and Roemer families chose
to live here. He stated that he is upset that he might have to leave this beautiful town
because now the city is ranked the top worst city per capita, along with being the highest
local taxes in the state. The top four are South Bend, Laporte, Ft. Wayne and
Indianapolis. He asked the Council why are taxes in South Bend so high? And why is
South Bend the worst? Why do our local leaders not see what this is doing, and how this
is going to affect everyone. Mr. Kusbach stated that he may not stay here if changes in
the way the Council approves the monies that are spent and budgeted are not drastically
changed immediately. He stated that his dad owns a plumbing business, Value
Plumbing; he also owns several properties that he has used his own money to renovate
and bring people back into South Bend. He asked what will happen to families if his dad
has to lay them off? What will happen to Mike, his wife and two kids; Doug and his
family; Jim the heating guy; Greg the roofer who helped his dad with his units. He stated
that his dad now says with the taxes anticipated in doubling won't be able to hire any
contractors to help him. What will happen to all the families that his dad rents to, if he
raises the rent to pay off the taxes? Mr. Kusbach stated that he will leave the Council
with five questions to ponder. 1. What will happen to him? 2. Will he be able to stay
here in South Bend? 3. Is there a future for him? 4. Will he have the money to go to
College? 5. What is the Council going to do to correct this problem.
Councilmember Puzzello stated that she cannot answer all of Mr. Kusbach's questions
right at the moment. She noted that they could forward these questions and have some
answers at the next Council meeting. She noted that the Portage Township Assessor -
Rosemary Mandrici is present in the audience tonight and they will forward some of
these questions onto her for clarification.
Councilmember White stated that the questions that Mr. Kusbach presented to the
Council tonight are very important. She noted that they would be glad to respond to the
34
REGULAR MEETING
SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
questions by the next Council Meeting. She encouraged Mr. Kusbach to stay in South
Bend and stated that there is a bright future here in South Bend for him.
Councilmember Dieter questioned where the ranking of South Bend came from. He
asked if possible to get a copy of that.
Councilmember Varner advised that that Great Statesman Lou Holtz said just last week
"Things are never quite as good as they seem or as bad as they seem." He thinks that if
Mr. Kusbach has the opportunity to get some explanations on this he might feel a little bit
better about some things and maybe worse about some other things, but it is a learning
experience from top to bottom and he got an early start, so good for him! He stated that
Mr. Kusbach's criticism was fair, because he took facts out of an article! The Council
will respond just as soon as they have a chance to research the information.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Council, President Rouse adjourned
the meeting at 8:30 p.m.
ATTEST:
ATTEST:
John Voorde, City Clerk Timothy A. Rouse, President
35