Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-03-06 Redevelopment Commission MinutesSOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING February 3, 2006 10:00 a.m. 227 West Jefferson Boulevard Presiding: Marcia I. Jones, President South Bend, Indiana 1. ROLL CALL Members Present: Ms. Marcia Jones, President Mr. Karl King, Vice President Mr. Greg Downes, Secretary Mr. Hardie B lake, Jr. Mr. William Hojnacki Legal Counsel: Ms. Cheryl Greene, Esq. Mr. Shawn Peterson, Esq. Redevelopment Staff: Mr. Donald Inks, Director Mr. Robert Mathia, Asst. Director Ms. Sharon Kendall, Executive Director Mrs. Cheryl Phipps, Recording Secretary Mr. Tim Williams, Economic Development Specialist Mr. Andrew Laurent, Economic Development Specialist Ms. Jennifer Laurent, Economic Development Specialist Mr. Nicholas Witwer, Economic Development Specialist Others Present: Ms. Pam Paluszewski, Legal Dept. Ms. Jamie Loo, South Bend Tribune Mr. Donald Sniegowski Ms. Barbara Sniegowski Ms. Robin Slutsky, Downtown South Bend Ms. Charlotte Sobel, South Bend Heritage Foundation Mr. King noted a Revised Agenda for the February 3, 2006 meeting. The items added to the original agenda were 6.B.(5), a proposal for HVAC services in the Wayne St. Garage retail space; 6.D.(1), a proposal for survey and engineering services on Blackthorn Corporate Park Lot A3; and 6.F.(1), an agreement with South Bend Heritage Foundation related to the West Washington/Chapin Development Area. Mr. King made a motion that the Revised Agenda be COMMISSION APPROVED THE REVISED accepted and approved. Mr. Downes seconded the AGENDA DATED FEBRUARY 3, 2006 motion and the Commission approved the Revised Agenda dated February 3, 2006. South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES A. Approval of Minutes of the Regular Meeting of Friday, September 16, 2006. There were no Minutes for approval. 3. APPROVAL OF CLAIMS THERE WERE NO MINUTES FOR APPROVAL. Redevelopment Commission Claims submitted February 3, 2006 for approval. FUND 305 SBCDA 2003 BOND Walker Parking Consultants $ 5,868.12 Tri County News 65.29 South Bend Tribune 91.08 Reith Riley Construction Co., Inc. 468,984.18 E Washington Street Project 324 AIRPORT AEDA Meridian Title Corporation 185.00 Jerome E. Michaels, MAI 3,250.00 414 SAMPLE-EWING GENERAL Plews Shadley Racher & Braun 1,255.39 420 FUND TIF DISTRICT-SBCDA GENERAL Ampco Parking Systems 2,860.57 Dynamic Mechanical Services, Inc. 213.26 Conspect Services, Inc. 354.90 Meridian Title Corp 600.00 CB Richard Ellis 1,616.81 Circle Lumber, Inc. 30.96 SBD Reprographics 572.67 Rose Pest Solutions 85.00 422 FUND WEST WASHINGTON South Bend Heritage Foundation 9,102.50 2 South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 3. APPROVAL OF CLAIMS (CONT.) 424 FUND TIF SBCDA -BUILDING OPERATIONS Ampco Parking Systems 9,085.00 After Hours Locksmith 88.00 Circle Lumber Co. 25.10 Indiana Michigan Power 464.72 CB Richard Ellis 298.44 428 FUND AIRPORT 2003 BOND Gates & Gates Realty, LLC 400.00 Leroy A. Johnson, II & Vicky S. Johnson 1,970.00 Meridian Title Corporation 450.00 $ 507,916.99 Upon a motion by Mr. King, seconded by Mr. Downes and unanimously carried, the Commission approved the Claims submitted February 3, 2006, and ordered checks to be released 4. COMMUNICATIONS Upon a motion by Mr. King, seconded by Mr. Downes and unanimously carried, the Commission authorized Mr. Inks to summarize the following two Communications, but requested the secretary to include the entire letters in the Minutes of this meeting. (1) Communications from Janice Langland, FireArts, Inc. January 29, 2006 Dear Members of the South Bend Commission: The enclosed pages detail the improvements the artists at Fire Arts, Inc. have made to the building at 305 East Colfax and our contribution to the 3 COMMISSION APPROVED THE CLAIMS SUBMITTED FEBRUARY 3, 2006, AND ORDERED THE CHECKS TO BE RELEASED COMMISSION AUTHORIZED MR. INKS TO SUMMARIZE THE FOLLOWING TWO COMMUNICATIONS, BUT REQUESTED THE SECRETARY TO INCLUDE THE ENTIRE LETTERS IN THE MINUTES OF THIS MEETING COMMUNICATIONS FROM JANICE LANGLAND, FIREARTS, INC. South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 4. COMMUNICATIONS () continued... quality of life in South Bend. We accomplished all this in only eighteen months, eleven of which were spent fixing up the building. I then detail the positive momentum we have built up and the good things that will happen if Fire Arts stays in the current building, compared it with the loss of momentum and the subsequent decline we will experience if we have to move to another building. The pages end with this plea: We ask the commission to keep Fire Arts, Inc exactly where it is so we can take advantage of the momentum that has built up and continue to thrive. We also ask that you find a way to make this building our permanent home. Only with the security of place can we make plans well into the future, plans that can enhance the organization, bring artists from across the nation into South Bend, and continue to change the urban landscape with our sculptures and charge up the neighborhood. Please read the entire paper to become familiar with the details of our actions, and please vote for any plan that includes keeping Fire Arts in its current location so we can continue the growth we have begun so strongly. Sincerely, Janice Langland 4 South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 4. COMMUNICATIONS () continued... A REPORT ON THE STATE OF FIRE ARTS January 21, 2006 CONDITION OF THE PA C B UILDING INJUNE 2004 As people from the Commerce Center walked past the abandoned PAC building, they had to look at litter, empty bottles wrapped tightly in bags, tall weeds, and a building with broken picture windows. If they looked inside these picture windows, they saw debris: dirty socks, strewn paper, broken glass, stained coffee cups, an old vacuum cleaner, and hardware bits all over the floor. The office had faux wood veneer peeling from the walls and doors left ajar, slowing the filthy, water-stained carpet that covered the area. It was not a pretty sight, and I often watched at lunchtime as people crossed the street when they reached our driveway and then continued toward downtown on the other side of Colfax. They didn't seem to want to walk by the PAC building. The Sycamore side was also distressing. The three garage doors badly needed paint, litter remained where it was tossed, and weeds grew tall in the cracks. Two garage doors had half a metal gate swinging freely out onto the sidewalk, and the outside light was permanently out. Inside was much worse. The office floor was covered with smelly boxes of files, and inside the kiln-room-to-be was debris fi^om another building piled several feet high. Every room was filled with abandoned equipment, furniture, signs, junk, and the occasional something that might be useful. The smell was dank and damp. The walls were covered with notes, oddly painted patches, 5 South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 4. COMMUNICATIONS () continued... pictures, posters, and graffiti, a cacophony of visual imagery, all of it unpleasant and creepy. The roof had small leaks and big gaping holes where machinery exhausts once exited the building. Now they let in snow, which piled high onto the floor waiting for a spring thaw to clean then, and heavy rain entered in torrents. The furnace hadn't worked for probably seven years, so all the gas lines had holes. Frozen plumbing pipes were unusable, and the two hot water heaters and the air conditioner no longer worked. Fire Arts was allowed to use this building, but it wasn't ready to be used. The sturdy cement block walls and the cement block kiln-room-to-be were what sold us on the place, and the glass fronted area would show off ouN finished artwork. At first, we believed the city would make the building habitable, but that was not to be. They were encouraging and helpful, but all the money came from our pockets, emptying the coffers of our "buy-in, "the money each artist had to put in to buy tools and equipment. A safe and secure building was more important. Tools would have to come later. CONDITION OF THE FIRE ARTS BUILDING IN JANUAR Y 2006 We pat ourselves on the back when we see the improvements we have made to the old PAC building in only eighteen months. We held our first work day on a Saturday to clean out the debris, and people came fi^om city government 6 South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 4. COMMUNICATIONS () continued... and the community, plus all the artists and their friends. Everyone turned up again to paint the inside. Many hands make light work, and the potluck made it all fun. We had no budget for labor, so Fire Artists worked on the building two evenings a week (after their day jobs) plus many weekends for eleven months. Finally, in April 2005, we declared the building finished and had a celebratory dinner. There were still improvements needed, but at last all the areas were set up and it was possible to create artwork from start to finish. We had worked very hard indeed. First the roof had been patched, basic plumbing pipes replaced, and the electricity turned on. This made us secure, and we could plug in our tools. It took two days but the gas service crew was able to locate and fix all the small leaks so we could pass the pressure test and have the gas turned on. Only then were we able to check out each of the furnaces and have them repaired, one at a tine, as money became available. Our artists worked the first winter in their winter coats. Now, during our second winter, we are comfortable. We added two utility sinks (one for sculptors and one for potters) and a handicap accessible bathroom-complete with a Blodgett wall mural! Electric service was increased to accommodate all or power tools. 7 South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 4. COMMUNICATIONS () continued... We installed adequate gas in the kiln room for the pottery kiln and the bronze melting furnace, and we upgraded the electric service so the smaller electric kilns and the sculptors' burnout kiln could be used. That room now also has a better exhaust fan, an electric hoist, and a new extractor fan with hood. The hot water heaters have been replaced and the air conditioner has been repaired. As people walk by the Fire Arts building, it is in good repair. Along Colfax, the weeds are gone, replaced with bushes, a brick walk, flowers, and a couple of large sculptures. The broken windows have been repaired and painted in bright colors. We have installed decorative lighting along Colfax. I now see people walk directly past our building on their way to lunch, peering in the windows to admire our artwork. Bus riders along Sycamore see ouN beautiful Fire Arts graphic covering the ugly garage doors, and the two half gates have been combined to create a single working gate that enables us to leave a garage door open in hot weather but keep stray dogs out. Bus riders ogle to see what we're doing inside. Instead of being an eyesore, the Fire Arts building has transformed the look of the neighborhood. We have also created a place to visit. FIRE ARTS BRINGS Q UALITY OF LIFE CHANGES TO SO UTH BEND Fire Arts Participates in Community Art Events We have now participated in two Art Beat events, 8 South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 4. COMMUNICATIONS () continued... which were de facto "Before" and "After" events for Fire Arts, and we have opened our doors to young musicians for performances. We are the central location for the annual Colfax Art Corridor events, the traditional Holiday Art Walk in December and the newer Spring Art Walk in May. The event moves from Circa Arts to the east and Spurious Fugitive to the west. Our popular Tuesday Tours invite the public to see the artwork in the showroom and then take a tour of the studios. They get an explanation of how sculptures are made, they get to watch artists at work, they meet the artists who can stop to chat, and sometimes there is something special going on. Tours have witnessed bronze pouring in the foundry and seen large artworks progress. It's always a fun time foN our visitors. Especially during the holidays, when family comes to town, people who have visited before Neturn with their families, full of enthusiasm. We aNe a destination. This year is our first year of full production, and our artists can finally donate to worthy causes. Fourteen have signed up to donate to the WNIT art auction in March. Fire Arts Educates the Public Local Organizations Several local organizations have held their meetings at Fire Arts and taken a private tour: the South Bend Redevelopment Committee, Northern Indiana Artists, Sons of Norway, South Bend Car Club, the officers of the South Bend Symphonic Choir. 9 South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 4. COMMUNICATIONS () continued... Universities & Schools Ivy Tech, Bethel, and Indiana University South Bend have brought faculty, sculpture classes, arts appreciation, ceramics, and general culture classes to tour our facility and speak with some of the artists. Hebrew Day School brought 45 children to see artists' demonstrations and hear about what we do at Fire Arts. The ILISB ceramics class used our facility to do raku firing, a facility they lack, and Ivy Tech would like to use our foundry facility for a sculpture class. Museum Docents Docents from the Midwest Museum of American Art in Elkhart have come for a lecture tour. The Common Man Meanwhile, several hundred, perhaps a thousand people have toured Fire Arts during our public events or Tuesday Tours and learned about making sculpture and pottery. These have included adults and families. Fire Arts Serves Area Artists A Well-Equipped Place to Work Area artists now have a large building in which to work and a large variety of equiprnent~ equipment that no one person could afford to own by themselves. This space enabled local artists Tuck Langland and David Blodgett to do huge national commissions that would not have fit in their other studios. Tuck's 12'high sculptures needed the height, and the Blodgetts' 130'rnural needed the wall space and large central working area. There are currently twenty artists working 10 South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 4. COMMUNICATIONS () continued... regularly at Fire Arts, and otheNS use it as needed. A former resident spent her August vacation at Fire Arts casting her sculptures into bronze. A Place to Learn ~ Network Because some artists are not ready for full time studio commitment, we instituted a Night Membership. Artists can use our studio and equipment Tuesday and Thursday nights, the nights most artists are there working together. A Place to Develop Professionally We are setting up a Business of Art office for our members, but we will also hold Business of Art workshops and work sessions for area artists. When the office is complete, we will establish another local service where area artists may rent the office to research using our library and files, or use our office equipment as they work on their caNeer. Work sessions for area artists will include group photo sessions, since artwork is usually judged (and advertised) through photos. If we hire a professional for a night, many artists can use him/her in the one location. Then we can label the slides in our office. Another work session will concern our Schedule C forms. Most CPAs don't use the same language as artists, which is confusing when artist and CPA meet and can't communicate. A Place to Improve One's Skills Fire Arts is poised to offer workshops to local and national artists. This is explained below, in The Future of Fire Arts. 11 South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 4. COMMUNICATIONS () continued... Fire Arts Exudes Creative Energy that Energizes Others Visitors express their enthusiasm for Fire Arts, and people like to be with us. One inventor said he wanted to tap into our creative energy and wondered how he could get feedback from us. There seems to be a strong need, previously unknown, to have a critical mass of creative people for others to interact with, even if those others are not artists who will rent space with us. THE FUTURE OF FIRE ARTS If we stay in the current building It took us eleven months to get the PAC building fixed up and working as an artists' studio. This needed more time and more money than we had ever imagined, money we had expected to spend on equipment. Only recently have we been up and running as a productive art studio, and the pace of activities is increasing monthly. Today we have a lot going on in the studio: increased production, increasing sales, more art commissions, more artistic experimentation and growth. Public interest in us began strong and is getting stronger. If Fire Arts continues to use this building, the activities and the interaction with the public will continue to grow. Fire Arts is poised to offer workshops to local and national artists. We have developed two mailing lists (local and national artists), and we have a list of international artists eager to teach workshops at Fire Arts. Since it takes two years between scheduling and advertising a workshop and carrying it out, we will only be able to do this 12 South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 4. COMMUNICATIONS () continued... once ~~e are assured we will stay in this building. This program will bring artists from across the nation and from other nations into South Bend. Moving to another building If Fire Arts is asked to move to another building, there is good chance that the organization will die. Many artists are mentally exhausted from fixing up the current building, and they don't want to do it again. Only recently have our artists returned to their former productivity level. If we stay put, the positive momentum will continue to grow, but if we are asked to leave this building and this location, some will drop out immediately, diminishing our very capable workforce and putting a strain on the remaining few. If those who leave take with them critical tools and equipment that they have loaned to the group, Fire Arts could crumble like a sand castle at high tide. FIRE ARTS' PLEA TO THE URBAN DEVELOPMENT COM1l~11SSI0N We ask the Commission to keep Fire Arts, Inc. exactly where it is so we can take advantage of the momentum that has built up and continue to thrive. We also ask that they find a way to make this building our permanent home. Only with the security of place can we make plans well into the future, plans that can enhance the organization, bring artists from across the nation into South Bend, and continue to change the urban landscape with our sculptures and charge up the neighborhood. 13 South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 4. COMMUNICATIONS () continued... SU1~I1l~ARY OF FIRE ARTS IHPROVEI~IENTS State of the PAC Building when Fire Arts first got use of the building in June 2004 compared with the state of the building now, in January 2006 THE1V June 2004 Large holes in the roof, allowing rain to pour in Gas lines had numerous leaks Gas furnaces not functioning Hot water heaters not functioning; unable to be fixed Plumbing not useable Drains were clogged Air conditioning didn't work Glass front windows were broken No handicap accessible toilet Outside lights in front not functioning; unable to be fixed Outside light in parking aNea not functioning Front and side door locks didn't work from the inside Ti~~o broken metal gates along Sycamore Ugly garage doors on Sycamore Minimal electrical service No gas to kiln room Inadequate venting from kiln room Each room was filled with trash and abandoned furniture Rugs were badly stained and unusable Wallboard was peeling off the temporary walls Graffiti, signs, posters; banners left on all walls Debris, bottles, broken glass, high weeds outside Old PAC sign still up Grass not mowed; weeds obstructed view of back neighbor 14 South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 4. COMMUNICATIONS () continued... NOW January 2006 Roof is sound Repaired & upgraded gas lines Repaired or replaced gas furnaces Purchased 2 new hot water heaters Replaced water pipes Cleaned out drains Repaired air conditioner Repaired and colorfully painted glass front windows Constructed and decorated handicap accessible toilet Replaced outside lights with new Added lighted roof sculpture Repaired outside light in parking area Replaced front & side door locks and added alarms Repaired one metal gate along Sycamore Painted garage doors gNaphically Upgraded electrical seNVice Added gas service to kiln Noom Installed kiln vent and upgraded existing fan Cleared out trash and abandoned furniture Removed carpeting and painted floor Removed damaged walls Cleaned and painted walls Cleared away debris outside Removed PAC sign; added sculpture Cleared and maintained grass Equipment, tools & furniture donated or loaned included complete: Woodworking area Wax working area Modeling area Mold making area Plaster investment area Stone carving area 15 South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 4. COMMUNICATIONS () continued... Blacksmith area Welding area Metal chasing area Showroom Business of Art office for artists Office for the organization Lounge area Pottery kilns Potter wheels Glazing area for pottery Bronze foundry The eyesore has been replaced by a beautiful, well kept building, and high quality artwork is visible through the windows for passersby who walk downtown on their lunch break. People no longer cross the street at our driveway to walk on the other side. They walk past Fire Arts and window shop. (2) Communication from Marybeth Saunders and Kathy Reddy White, Circa Arts Gallery, 528 E. Colfax Ave, South Bend. January 21, 2006 South Bend Redevelopment Commission County-City Building 227 W. Jefferson Blvd., Ste 1200 South Bend, IN 46601 Dear South Bend Redevelopment Commission: We are writing in response to an article in the South Bend Ti^ibune (1/21/06) covering the eco- urban collaborative and Holladay Properties' proposals. COMMUNICATION FROM MARYBETH SAUNDERS AND KATHY REDDY WHITE, CIRCA ARTS GALLERY, 528 E. COLFAX AVE, SOUTH BEND. 16 South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 4. COMMUNICATIONS continue ... We strongly believe it is essential for whatever proposals are accepted, they adhere to City Plan guidelines. This is a pivotal moment in our City's redevelopment efforts. Over the past two years, our City leaders and community members have spent countless hours on developing City Plan. From hearing well-known guest speakers on the topic of urban planning, to reviewing City Plan documents, we've found several recurring themes important to our community: Human scale and pedestrian-oriented development; 1~lixed use development with retail below/residential above; Urban design reflects a neighborhood's distinct style, identity and scale; The Colfax Arts Corridor continue developing as the arts district in the downtown area, complete with living/working space for artists and their families. Therefore, we respectfully recommend the following: 1) Discourage office-only development on prime riverfront property; 2) The eco-urban collaborative plan is accepted for the Rink site and the Holladay proposal be accepted for the Wharf site, with the stipulation that the Holladay structure be redesigned to reflect the architectural scale, style and "green " sensibility of the eco-urban collaborative. In the words of the collaborative, "South Bend can be poised to be the heartland hub of environmental and economic development. " 17 South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 4. COMMUNICATIONS continue ... Here's to South Bend transforming from Rust Belt to Green Beltl Sincerely, 1Vlarybeth Saunders and Kathy Reddy White Mr. King asked the staff to remind the Commissioners how Fire Arts became located in the Colfax St. building and what the Commission's arrangement is with them. Mr. Mathia, former project manager for the South Bend Central Development Area, distributed to the Commissioners copies of its agreement with Fire Arts. The Commission purchased the P.A.C. Graphics building in June 2003 for a cost of $302,250, plus $1,156 in closing costs. The Commission's original intent was to acquire the P.A.C property and other adjacent Sycamore Street properties to create a temporary surface parking lotto support development in the East Bank area and, ultimately, to construct a parking garage on the site. Due to a shortage of funds, the acquisition of additional land was delayed and the P.A.C. Graphics building was not immediately demolished. In late 2003 or early 2004 a group of artists approached staff asking to use the building. Staff's first response was to deny the request and try to assist the artists in finding another location. However, the P.A.C. Graphics building met their needs best in terms of size and amenities. They appealed for reconsideration and the Commission agreed to allow them to use the building rent free. The artists would have to pay for any improvements they wanted to make to the building and pay all utility costs. 18 South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 4. COMMUNICATIONS continue ... The agreement stipulates that there is no lease. The Commission has the right to take the building back at any time with no less than 180 days notice. Mr. Mathia noted that the artists have done quite a bit of work on the building. They are a good group of people. However, they understood that the Commission was not giving them a long term commitment to use the building. Mr. Mathia attended a couple of their board meetings where they asked how long they could have the building. Mr. Mathia's response was that they might potentially be permitted to use the building as long as two years, although there was no guarantee given. Mr. Mathia based his estimate on his knowledge of how long it takes the Commission to accomplish clearance when it decides to move forward. The artists wanted a commitment for three years, but Mr. Mathia advised that he could not make any promises. Ms. Greene also noted that there are procedures the Commission is required to follow with respect to disposition of property, particularly receiving value for value given. At the time of the Fire Arts' request, the Commission felt allowing Fire Arts to use the building on a temporary basis would offset its anticipated holding costs until such time as the building was demolished. The Commission's permission to Fire Arts' use of the building was conditioned upon Fire Arts' agreement to be responsible for all costs associated with its use of the building. Mr. King thanked the staff for the background information. 19 South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 5. OLD BUSINESS There was no Old Business. 6. NEW BUSINESS A. Tax Abatements (1} Commission approval requested for Resolution No. 2227 approving an application for residential tax deduction for property located at 917 North St. Peter Street in the Northeast Neighborhood Development Area. (Barbara Virginia Sniegowski Revocable Trust) Mr. Mathia noted that at the time the application for tax abatement was filed, the Sniegowskis were in the process of purchasing 917 N. St. Peter St. from the Northeast Neighborhood Revitalization Organization. They have since completed the purchase and added it to the trust. Mr. Mathia gave the staff report on the project. The Sniegowskis will construct a new 2000 sft, single story home with seven rooms, two bathrooms and a full basement on the property. The cost of the home will be approximately $250,000. The Northeast Neighborhood Revitalization Organization (the petitioner) has not been associated with any previous tax abatements. The property is properly zoned for the proposed use. The property is located in the Northeast Neighborhood Development Area, which is a tax increment allocation area; therefore, the petition for real property tax abatement must first be approved by the South Bend THERE WAS NO OLD BUSINESS 20 South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 6. NEW BUSINESS A. Tax Abatements () continued... Redevelopment Commission. The project qualifies for afive-year tax abatement under the tax abatement ordinance. The cost of the abatement is estimated as follows: Estimated Taxes Over 5 Yrs Without Abatement $26,737 With 5 Yr Abatement $15,926 Estimated Cost of 5 Yr Abatement $10,810 Mr. Sniegowski noted that he and his wife have lived in the northeast neighborhood for about thirty-five years. They like the neighborhood very much, but desired to move to a home that was easier to care for. They were unable to find an existing home in the neighborhood that met their needs and thought they would have to move to the suburbs. However, as they looked for something in the suburbs, they realized they did not want to live there. Building on this property will enable them to stay in the neighborhood in a home that meets their needs. The new construction will also strengthen the neighborhood. There is other vacant land nearby. He hopes their building project will inspire others to consider building new homes nearby as well. 21 South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 6. NEW BUSINESS A. Tax Abatements () continued... The home will have a detatched garage and either cedar siding or cement board siding to be compatible with the neighborhood. The windows and other detail are also intended to be compatible with existing homes. Mr. King noted that Mr. & Mrs. Sniegowski have not only been longtime residents of the Northeast Neighborhood, but have both contributed in more ways than anyone can count to keeping that neighborhood viable and to the revitalization that is going on now. Mrs. Sniegowski is a member of the Northeast Neighborhood Revitalization Organization board of directors and Mr. Sniegowski is secretary of the Northeast Neighborhood Council. Building this house in the neighborhood is just one more way in which they will contribute to the revitalization of that neighborhood. Upon a motion by Mr. King, seconded by Mr. Downes and unanimously carried, the Commission approved Resolution No. 2227 approving an application for real property tax deduction for property located at 917 North St. Peter St. in the South Bend Central Development Area. (Barbara Virginia Sniegowski Revocable Trust) COMMISSION APPROVED RESOLUTION N0. 2227 APPROVING AN APPLICATION FOR REAL PROPERTY TAX DEDUCTION FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 9 I ~ NORTH ST. PETER ST. IN THE SOUTH BEND CENTRAL DEVELOPMENT AREA. (BARBARA VIRGINIA SNIEGOWSKI REVOCABLE TRUST) 22 South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 6. NEW BUSINESS (CONT.) B. South Bend Central Development Area (1) Commission authorization requested to use the Wayne Street Garage on June 2 & 3, 2006 for the annual World's Largest Garage Sale. Mr. Williams noted that the Parks Department has requested use of the Wayne Street parking garage for its annual garage sale event, beginning at 6:00 p.m. June 2 and running through approximately 5:00 p.m. June 3, 2006. They will make arrangements with the city's Traffic & Lighting department to handle traffic and will be responsible for all clean-up. This is the 31St annual garage sale the city has run. Indemnification has been provided. Staff recommends approval. Upon a motion by Mr. Hojnacki, seconded by Mr. Downes and unanimously carried, the Commission authorized the use of the Wayne Street Garage on June 2 and 3, 2006 for the annual World's Largest Garage Sale. (2) Commission authorization requested to use the Wayne Street Garage on June 16, July 21 and August 19, 2006 for Rooftop Rendezvous concerts. Mr. Williams noted that the AIDS Ministries/AIDS Assist program of North Indiana has requested the use of the Wayne Street Garage for three concerts dated Friday, June 16, Friday, July 21 and Saturday, August 19, 2006. AIDS Ministries/AIDS Assist will work closely COMMISSION AUTHORIZED THE USE OF THE WAYNE STREET GARAGE ON JUNE 2 AND 3, 2006 FOR THE ANNUAL WORLD' S LARGEST GARAGE SALE 23 South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 6. NEW BUSINESS (CONT.) B. South Bend Central Development Area continue ... with staff, as it has in the past, to coordinate use of the garage so as not to interfere with parking. AIDS Ministries/AIDS Assist will supply its own security and will be responsible for all clean-up. They have always done a good job. They have provided Indemnification and a Certificate of Insurance naming the Board of Public Works as an additional insured. Staff recommends approval of the request. Upon a motion by Mr. Hojnacki, seconded by Mr. Blake and unanimously carried, the Commission authorized use of the Wayne Street Garage on June 16, July 21 and August 19, 2006 by AIDS Ministries/AIDS Assist for Rooftop Rendezvous concerts. (3) Commission authorization requested to use the Hotel LaSalle parking lot on March 18-20, 2006 in connection with the St. Paddy's Downtown tent party. Ms. Laurent noted that Downtown South Bend, Inc. has requested to use the Hotel LaSalle Parking lot at 237 Michigan Street for its third annual St. Paddy's Downtown tent party. The event will be held from Thursday evening, March 16 until March 18, 2006. They will make arrangements for parkers to be relocated to garages. Food and beverages will be provided by Upper Deck, which holds a valid liquor license. Off duty police and private security officers will monitor COMMISSION AUTHORIZED USE OF THE WAYNE STREET GARAGE ON JUNE I6, JULY 21 AND AUGUST 19, 2006 BY AIDS MINISTRIES/AIDS ASSIST FOR ROOFTOP RENDEZVOUS CONCERTS 24 South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 6. NEW BUSINESS (CONT.) B. South Bend Central Development Area continue ... entrances and exits. Proper insurance and indemnity forms are on file. Staff recommends approval of the request, and wishes to thank Robin Slutsky and the DTSB organization for continuing to promote activities like this for the benefit of downtown. Upon a motion by Mr. King, seconded by Mr. Downes and unanimously carried, the Commission authorized use of the Hotel LaSalle parking lot at 237 Michigan Street by Downtown South Bend for its St. Paddy's Downtown tent party. (4) Staff report on disposition of property in the South Bend Central Development Area. (Rink Riverside site) Ms. Laurent noted that on January 20 the Commission received two bids for purchase and development of the former Rink Riverside site in the South Bend Central Development Area. One was received from Ralph Jones Drive Partners, L.P., an affiliate of Holladay Property Services Midwest, Inc., and the other from Eco-Urban Collaborative. The two projects are immensely different in scale, design, land use, investment, requirements for City participation, impact on surrounding properties, treatment of the riverfront and contribution to development goals for the East Bank area. Neither bid met the Commission's offering price for the property, set by the average o f two COMMISSION AUTHORIZED USE OF THE HOTEL LASALLE PARKING LOT AT 23 7 MICHIGAN STREET BY DOWNTOWN SOUTH BEND FOR ITS ST. PADDY' S DOWNTOWN TENT PARTY 25 South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 6. NEW BUSINESS (CONT.) B. South Bend Central Development Area () continued... MAI appraisals at $337,500. Therefore, the Commission could not award the bid to either bidder. Instead, the Commission publicly acknowledged receipt of the two bids and referred them to staff for review. Staff has begun to meet with each of the developers separately to discuss basic project terms and the financial implications of each for the City and Commission. Staff is at the preliminary stage of its own due diligence and clarification with the developers. To provide a brief summary of the two proposals, the Holladay proposal, called East Gateway, describes a 75,000 sft Class A office building sited on the Rink parcel facing the river. Office and retail space would be introduced on the northeast corner of Colfax and Sycamore, on the site of the Commission-owned Fire Arts building. The former Wharf site, which is owned by the developer, would be developed with amid-rise structure featuring 30 luxury condominium units, a 70-room boutique hotel, and ground level retail space. A key component of the Holladay proposal is the City's commitment of tax abatement as well as public funding for the construction of a 400-space parking garage on the Commerce Center garage site with overhead skyway connection to the office and hotel buildings, the cost of underground parking below the hotel, a 26 South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 6. NEW BUSINESS (CONT.) B. South Bend Central Development Area () continued... public plaza, a park south of the existing AM General building, improvements to the Colfax Bridge and a pedestrian bridge spanning the river to Century Center. Holladay's own estimate of costs to the City is $17,150,000, met with $31,800,000 of private investment. The purchase price proposed for the property is $30,000. The Eco-Urban Collaborative proposes a phased development they have named Mill Race Isle. Within the .83 acre footprint of the Rink site, the site plan shows seven row houses with roof gardens facing the St. Joseph River, nine retail units facing east on Sycamore Street with two additional stories (18 residential units) above, a public plaza and atwo-story, 10,000 sft office building to face Sycamore. Plans for subsequent phases show the potential development of Maenerchor Row, a set of three-story row houses along both sides of Sycamore Street north of the Rink site and the existing Fire Arts building. All development is to feature high performance "green" building technologies. Costs to the City are not itemized, but include improvements to the East Race walkway and streetscape, land acquisition costs, site prep and tax abatement. The investment would total $ 5, 510,15 8 for Phase I and II, which pertain to the Rink site. The purchase price proposed for the Rink site is $1.00. 27 South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 6. NEW BUSINESS (CONT.) B. South Bend Central Development Area (} continued... Ms. Laurent noted that there is significant interest on the part of the pubic related to the direction that will be taken with this riverfront property from a land use and design perspective. The complexity of the myriad issues brought into distinction with these proposals need to be addressed carefully and should take into account public input. Ms. Laurent noted that staff must still do its due diligence in verifying the financial ability of each developer to complete the project. She asked the Commission what it would like staff to do next. Mr. King noted that his reading of both proposals had generated a long list of questions about each of them. He would like both developers to attend the February 17 or March 3 meeting of the Commission to answer his and any other questions about their proposals. In order to compile a comprehensive list of questions for that meeting, Ms. Laurent will provide the Commissioners with her list of questions. They will add to that list any additional questions they have. The list will then be submitted to the developers so they will be prepared with answers. Ms. Greene noted that both bids received by the Commission were non-conforming in that they did not meet the bid 28 South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 6. NEW BUSINESS (CONT.) B. South Bend Central Development Area () continued... specifications, including the offering price set by the Commission. Indiana statute, I.C. 36-7-14-stipulates that the Commission may not award the bid that does not meet the Commission's offering price until 30 days have passed since the bids were received and opened at a public meeting. Mr. Downes clarified that at this point the Commission is not requesting either developer to revise his proposal. The Q & A session will simply be afact-finding endeavor. Upon a motion by Mr. King, seconded by Mr. Downes and unanimously carried, the Commission directed staff to arrange for Ralph Jones Partnership and the Eco-Urban Collaborative to attend the February 17 or March 3, 2006 Commission meeting to answer questions about their proposals for the Rink Riverside site. (5) Commission approval requested for HVAC services in the South Bend Central Development Area. (Wayne Street garage retail space) Mr. Williams noted that staff requests authorization to proceed with the necessary repairs to the HVAC systems as delineated by Herrman & Goetz in its report of January 17, 2006. The cost of the work is $1,250. This work was promised to COMMISSION DIRECTED STAFF TO ARRANGE FOR RALPH JONES PARTNERSHIP AND THE ECO-URBAN COLLABORATIVE TO ATTEND THE FEBRUARY I ~ OR MARCH 3, 2006 COMMISSION MEETING TO ANSWER QUESTIONS ABOUT THEIR PROPOSALS FOR THE RINK RIVERSIDE SITE 29 South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 6. NEW BUSINESS (CONT.) B. South Bend Central Development Area continue ... Brenda Markin in her lease of the space for the State Cafe. Upon a motion by Mr. King, seconded by Mr. Hojnacki and unanimously carried, the Commission authorized the request for proposal for HVAC services in the South Bend Central Development Area and approved the proposal from Herrman & Goetz for the scope of services and fee proposed. C. Sample-Ewing Development Area There was no business in the Sample-Ewing Development Area. D. Airport Economic Development Area (1) Commission approval requested for proposal for professional services in the Airport Economic Development Area. (Survey, engineering, Blackthorn hotel site) Mr. VUitwer noted that staff is nearing disposition of the hotel site in Blackthorn Corporate Park. In order to address several outstanding issues staff requested a proposal from The Abonmarche Group to perform an ALTA survey, adding an additional 40 feet of land to the southwest property line of the hotel site, rezoning and replatting that land, and doing the engineering work for relocation of a sewer that runs east-west through the middle of COMMISSION AUTHORIZED THE REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL FOR HVAC SERVICES IN THE SOUTH BEND CENTRAL DEVELOPMENT AREA AND APPROVED THE PROPOSAL FROM HERRMAN & GOETZ FOR THE SCOPE OF SERVICES AND FEE PROPOSED 30 South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 6. NEW BUSINESS (CONT.) D. Airport Economic Development Area () continued... the property. The sewer relocation is a necessary step for any development on the site. The fee for the services outlined is $17,900. Mr. Witwer asked that the Commission authorize anot-to-exceed amount of $20,000. Upon a motion by Mr. King, seconded by Mr. Hojnacki and unanimously carried, the Commission approved the request for proposal for professional services in the Airport Economic Development Area and accepted the proposal from The Abonmarche Group for a not to exceed amount of $20,000. E. South Bend Medical Services District There was no business in the South Bend Medical Services District. F. West Washington-Chapin Development Area (1) Commission approval requested for Agreement with South Bend Heritage Foundation, Inc. related to the West Washington-Chapin Development Area. Mr. Inks noted that the Commission previously took action approving some demolitions for Oil Express, Basic Machine and the back portion of the Natatorium. South Bend Heritage has worked in this neighborhood for more than 3 0 years. Until recently there has not been much TIF revenue to work with in the COMMISSION APPROVED THE REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL FOR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES IN THE AIRPORT ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AREA AND ACCEPTED THE PROPOSAL FROM THE ABONMARCHE GROUP FOR A NOT TO EXCEED AMOUNT OF $20,000 31 South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 6. NEW BUSINESS (CONT.) B. West Washington/Chapin Development Area () continued... West Washington-Chapin Development Area. Now that there are funds, we would like to employ South Bend Heritage to carry out a number of activities in that area. This agreement covers 2006 and 2007. It contains a termination clause. The scope of activities includes the renovation of the front section of the Engman Natatorium, improvements to the tree lawn of Oil Express, and survey and physical enhancements related to the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. The budget for those items to be completed in 2006 is $345,100. In 2007 the TIF revenue is expected to be $208,734. The agreement calls for South Bend Heritage to acquire as many as three properties (Hurwich Iron Works, Public Housing Authority's maintenance building, and a small industrial building just west of Oil Express, east of Hurwich Iron) as there are funds to acquire. Mr. King clarified that the agreement does limit the amount of the contract to the amount of TIF funds available. Mr. Inks confirmed that that is correct. Since the City holds some other properties in the WWCDA, we will reserve $10,000 for maintenance of those properties as well. Ms. Greene noted that the agreement contemplates that South Bend Heritage will be acting as the Commission's agent in accomplishing certain activities. The agreement stipulates that South Bend 32 South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 6. NEW BUSINESS (CONT.) B. West Washington/Chapin Development Area () continued... Heritage will follow the Commission's standard procedures in such actions, including obtaining quotes, awarding to the best bidder, etc. Ms. Sobel, South Bend Heritage Foundation, expressed her appreciation for the work that has already been started at the Oil Express, Basic Machine and Natatorium sites. Neighborhood residents have commented how much better it looks. Ms. Greene also noted that the Engman Natatorium, which project is to be undertaken, is property that was donated to the City of South Bend in 1923. There were a number of questions about how the City could use that property based upon the conditions expressed in the deed gifting to the property to the City. On January 17, 2006, Ms. Greene represented the City of South Bend in a declaratory judgment action for the purpose of determining the legal right of the City to transfer the property to anot-for-profit organization and rehabilitate the property for use by another public entity. By merit of an Order entered subsequent to the hearing, all of the remaining legal issues on the property have been cleared up so that this project can proceed. Ms. Greene further noted that the Natatorium will retain the Engman name in accordance with the conditions of the original gift of the property to the City. In addition, the 33 South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 6. NEW BUSINESS (CONT.) B. West Washington/Chapin Development Area () continued... property will retain a public use and public purpose, in keeping with the original intent of the grantor. Ms. Sobel also noted that the former funeral home next to the Natatorium was sold to two private individuals who work at Notre Dame and are artists. They are converting the old Clark-O'Neal Funeral Home into their residence with studio space. That's just an example of the encouraging activity that seems to be happening in that neighborhood. Upon a motion by Mr. Downes, seconded by Mr. King and unanimously carried, the Commission approved the Agreement with South Bend Heritage Foundation, Inc. related to the West Washington-Chapin Development Area. G. South Side Development Area There was no business in the South Side Development Area. H. Northeast Neighborhood Development Area There was no business in Northeast Neighborhood Development Area. I. Other COMMISSION APPROVED THE WITH SOUTH BEND HERITAGE FOUNDATION, INC. RELATED TO THE WEST WASHINGTON-CHAPIN DEVELOPMENT AREA 34 South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting -February 3, 2006 7. PROGRESS REPORTS Mr. Inks noted that, in addition to all that has been mentioned that is happening in the WWCDA, he drives by Basic Machine every morning and has for years. It has never looked better. Ms. Laurent reported that staff is working closely with Mark Tarner on the conveyance of the Osco site. He has been given a draft contract to review. Staff is optimistic that it can have a Contract for Sale of Land on the next Commission agenda. 8. NEXT COMMISSION MEETING The next meeting of the Redevelopment Commission is scheduled for Friday, February 17, 2006 at 10:00 a.m. 9. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business to come before the Redevelopment Commission, Mr. King made a motion that the meeting be adjourned. Mr. Hojnacki seconded the motion and the meeting was adjourned at 10:45 a.m. Donald E. Inks, Director PROGRESS REPORTS NEXT COMMISSION MEETING ADJOURNMENT Marcia I. Jones, President 35