HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-14-2025 Common Council Meeting MinutesREPORT OF SUB-COMMITTEE ON MINUTES
TO THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND:
THE SUB-COMMITTEE HAS INSPECTED THE MINUTES OF THE
DATE: 04-14-2025
MEETING OF THE COUNCIL AND FOUND THEM TO BE CORRECT.
THEREFORE, WE RECOMMEND THE SAME BE APPROVED:
APPROVED BY THE COMMON COUNCIL ON: 04-28-2025
ATTEST:
BIANCA L. TI
REGULAR MEETING April 14, 2025
Be it remembered that the Common Council of the City of South Bend , Indiana , met in person on
Monday, April 14, 2025, at 7:00 p.m . Council President Canneth Lee called the meeting to order.
The invocation was given by Pastor Canneth Lee of Kingdom Christian Center Church, and Pledge
to the Flag was given.
City Clerk Bianca L. Tirado announced: Good Evening, members of the public . For audio quality ,
we will be muting everyone not speaking by default to maintain good audio quality for the Council
and yourselves. If you would like to speak during the meeting on a specific agenda item, please
submit your request in the chat -directions to do so are in the chat. We ask that you provide your
[FULL NAME] and [ADDRESS], as those are required for all speakers at in-person Council
meetings.
Please note the attached link for the meeting recording:
https://docs.southbendin.gov/WebLink/browse.aspx?dbid=0&mediaid=394592
Council meetings are also available at Michiana Access Channel on both their website and
their Facebook page.
ROLL CALL
COUNCILMEMBERS PRESENT
Canneth Lee
Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers
Sharon L. McBride
Troy Warner
Sheila Niezgodski
Karen L. White
Dr. Oliver Davis
Rachel Tomas Morgan
COUNCILMEMBERS ABSENT
Sherry Bolden-Simpson
OTHERS PRESENT
Bianca L. Tirado
Matthew Neal
Margaret Gotsch
Tierra Whitley
Bob Palmer
1st District, President
2nd District
3rd District
4 th District , Committee of the Whole
6th District
At-Large
At-Large
At-Large, Vice President
5th District
City Clerk
Deputy Director of Policy
Director of Special Projects
City Clerk Intern
Council Attorney
Members marked with an asterisk (*) are in virtual attendanc e.
SUB-COMMITTEE ON MINUTES:
March 24, 2025
Council President Lee requested reports from the Sub-Committee on Minutes.
Clerk Tirado stated that the Sub-Committee on Minutes inspected the March 24, 2025 Common
Council meeting minutes and recommend they be approved.
Councilmember Troy Warner moved to approve the March 24, 2025 Common Council meeting
minutes, which was seconded by Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers and carried via a vote
by voice.
SPECIAL BUSINESS
None.
REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICES
Caleb Bauer, Executive Director of Community Investment, with offices on the 14 th floor of the
County-City Building, presented the 2024 Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Management Report.
REGULAR MEETING April 14, 2025
The Redevelopment Commission was created in 1956. The Commission investigates , surveys and
studies areas that need redevelopment, as well as studies and combats the factors causing an area
to need redevelopment. TIF is a financing tool used to fund economic development and investment
in infrastructure and other public improvements. Publicly owned infrastructure improvements ,
publicly owned capital projects , professional services , supervisory expenses , and capital projects
of private entities in furtherance of economic development or redevelopment purposes of a TIF
district are all eligible uses of Tax Increment Financing. The TIF districts within South Bend
include the River West Development Area, the Douglas Road Development Area, the West
Washington Development Area, the River East Development Area, the River East Residential
Development Area, the South Side Development Area , and the Riverwalk Development Area. The
fund balance of all development areas at the end of 2024 was seventy million eight hundred and
eighty-three thousand three hundred and twelve dollars ($70,883,312). The cash balance had
decreased since 2023 in order to further new developments within the development areas. In 2024 ,
expenditures across all districts totaled sixty million six hundred and fifty-seven thousand five
hundred and fifty-eight dollars ($60 ,657 ,558). Cumulative assessed value across all districts has
grown significantly since 2019 .
Councilmember Sharon McBride requested clarification regarding the expiration of the West
Washington Development Area.
Caleb Bauer stated that the West Washington Development Area will sunset later this year, and a
new base-assessed value will be set. The City is looking at the possibility of incorporating part of
the West Washington Development Area into the River West Development Area.
Councilmember McBride asked what criteria will be considered when deciding whether or not to
incorporate part of the West Washington Development Area into the River West Development
Area.
Caleb Bauer stated that often having larger development areas that incorporate more resources
allows the City the ability to more easily deliver on commitments within neighborhoods. The City
is also considering newer tools such as Single Family Residential Economic Development Areas .
Councilmember McBride asked how many entities the City is actively pursuing a clawback of
finances.
Caleb Bauer answered one (1).
Council member Dr. Oliver Davis asked if the City could utilize TIF funds to purchase vehicles for
police and fire.
Caleb Bauer stated that the City routinely utili zes TIF funds to assist in the development of new
fire stations. The City will consider expanding the utilization ofTIF funds to further support public
safety measures.
RESOLVE INTO THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
Councilmember Dr. Davis moved to resolve into the Committee of the Whole, which was
seconded by Councilmember McBride and carried via a vote by voice.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
BILL NO .
06-25 PUBLIC HEARING ON AN ORDINANCE OF
THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SOUTH BEND, INDIANA , APPROVING A
PETITION OF THE ADVISORY BOARD OF
ZONING APPEALS FOR THE PROPERTY
LOCATED AT 411 COTTAGE GROVE AVENUE
COUNCILMANIC DISTRICT NO. 1 IN THE CITY
OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA
Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council for its second (2 nd ) reading.
2
REGULAR MEETING April 14, 2025
After the second (2 nd ) reading , Councilmember Dr. Davis stated that Bill No . 06-25 went before
the Zoning and Annexation Committee and comes with a favorable recommendation.
Councilmember Warner requested that the petitioner(s) state their name and address and share key
points before the council.
Skip Morrell , Principal Development Planner, with offices on the 14 th floor of the County-City
Building, stated that Bill No . 06-2 5 requests a special exception for property located at 411 Cottage
Grove A venue for the construction of a duplex. The site i s currently a vacant lot , and the proposal
is consistent with the South Bend Comprehensive Plan. Bill No . 06-25 comes with a favorable
recommendation from the Board of Zoning Appeals.
Walter Costa, petitioner, 434 Broadmore Estate, Goshen , IN 46528 , was present for questions.
Councilmember Gooden-Rodgers requested clarification regarding the development.
Skip Morrell stated that the property would house two (2) units.
Council Vice President Rachel Tomas Morgan requested infonnation regarding the petitioner's
development history.
Walter Costa stated that they have rehabbed nine (9) properties in the area over the last four ( 4)
years.
Councilmember Warner held the public hearing , and nobody spoke.
Council President Lee thanked the petitioner for their investment.
Council President Lee moved to send Bill No. 06-25 to the Full Council with a favorable
recommendation , which was seconded by Councilmember Dr. Davis and carried by a vote of eight
(8) ayes with one (1) councilmember absent.
Council President Canneth Lee -Aye
Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers -Aye
Councilmember Troy Warner -Aye
Councilmember Sheila Niezgodski -Aye
Councilmember Karen L. White -Aye
15-25
16-25
Council Vice President Rachel Tomas Morgan -Aye
Councilmember Sharon McBride-Aye
Councilmember Sherry Bolden-Simpson -Absent
Councilmember Dr. Oliver Davis -Aye
PUBLIC HEARING ON AN ORDINANCE OF
THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SOUTH BEND, INDIANA, APPROVING A
PETITION OF THE ADVISORY BOARD OF
ZONING APPEALS FOR THE PROPERTY
LOCATED AT 1335 CORBY BOULEVARD
COUNCILMANIC DISTRICT NO. 4 IN THE CITY
OF SOUTH BEND , INDIANA
PUBLIC HEARING ON AN ORDINANCE OF
THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SOUTH BEND, INDIANA, APPROVING A
PETITION OF THE ADVISORY BOARD OF
ZONING APPEALS FOR THE PROPERTY
LOCATED AT 1253 CORBY BOULEVARD
COUNCILMANIC DISTRICT NO. 4 IN THE CITY
OF SOUTH BEND , INDIANA
Council President Lee moved to hear Bill Nos. 15-2 5 and 16-2 5 together , which was seconded by
Councilmember Dr. Davis and carried via a vote by voice.
Clerk Tirado read the bills to the Council for their second (2 nd ) readings.
After the second (2 nd ) readings , Councilmember Dr. Davis stated that Bill Nos . 15-25 and 16-25
both were heard in the Zoning and Annexation Committee, and both come with favorable
recommendations.
3
REGULAR MEETING April 14, 2025
Councilmember Warner requested that the petitioner(s) state their name and address and share key
points before the council.
Skip Morrell , Principal Development Planner, with offices on the 14 th floor of the County-City
Building, stated that Bill Nos. 15-25 and 16-25 both request special exceptions for the construction
of duplexes on currently vacant lots. Bill No. 15-25 refers to 1335 Corby Boulevard and Bill No .
16-25 refers to 1253 Corby Boulevard . Both proposals are consistent with the South Bend
Comprehensive Plan and both bills come from the Board of Zoning Appeals with favorable
recommendations.
Elissa Gunsorek , petitioner, 7821 Morse Road , New Albany , Ohio 43054, was present for
questions.
Co uncilmember Warner held the public hearing, and nobody spoke.
Councilmember Warner thanked the petitioner for their investment.
Council Vice President Tomas Morgan moved to send Bill No . 15-25 to the Full Council with a
favorable recommendation , which was seconded by Council President Lee and carried by a vote
of eight (8) ayes with one (l) councilmember absent.
Council President Canneth Lee -Aye Council Vice President Rachel Tomas Morgan -Aye
Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers -Aye Councilmember Sharon McBride-Aye
Councilmember Troy Warner -Aye Councilmember Sherry Bolden-Simpson -Absent
Councilmember Sheila Niezgodski -Aye Councilmember Dr. Oliver Davis -Aye
Councilmember Karen L. White -Aye
Councilmember White moved to send Bill No . 16-25 to the Full Council with a favorable
recommendation , which was seconded by Councilmember Gooden-Rodgers and carried by a vote
of eight (8) ayes with one (1) councilmember absent.
Council President Canneth Lee -Aye
Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers -Aye
Councilmember Troy Warner -Aye
Councilmember Sheila Niezgodski -Aye
Councilmember Karen L. White -Aye
Council Vice President Rachel Tomas Morgan -Aye
Councilmember Sharon McBride-Aye
Councilmember Sherry Bolden-Simpson -Absent
Councilmember Dr. Oliver Davis -Aye
PUBLIC HEARING ON AN ORDINANCE OF
THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SOUTH BEND , INDIANA , APPROVING A
PETITION OF THE ADVISORY BOARD OF
ZONING APPEALS FOR THE PROPERTY
LOCATED AT 1701 HICKORY ROAD
COUNCILMANIC DISTRICT NO. 4 IN THE CITY
OF SOUTH BEND , INDIANA
Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council for its second (2 nd ) reading.
After the second (2 nd ) reading , Councilmember Dr. Davis stated that Bill No. 18-25 went before
the Zoning and Annexation Committee and comes with a favorable recommendation.
Councilmember Warner requested that the petitioner(s) state their name and address and share key
points before the council.
Skip Morrell , Principal Development Planner, with offices on the 14 th floor of the County-City
Building, stated that Bill No. 18-25 requests two (2) special exceptions for property located at 1701
Hickory Road. One ( 1) special exception is to allow for the use of the property as a park , and the
other special exception is a use variance to allow for an indoor entertainment and recreation facility
in a parcel zoned Suburban Neighborhood One (S 1 ). The property is currently used for park space
and outdoor baseball fields. The special exceptions would formalize that use and allow for the
development of an indoor baseball field. The development would be consistent with the use and
4
REGULAR MEETING April 14, 2025
design of the surrounding area. Bill N o. 18-25 comes from the Board of Zoning Appeal s with a
favorable recommendation.
Angela Smith , Danch Hamer and Associates , with offices located at 1643 Commerce Drive , South
Bend , IN 46628 , stated that the East Side Baseball and Softball Association has had a lease with
the Parks Department for a while , and now is seeking to improve their current outdoor baseball
fields . The indoor facility will allow for year-round training . The developers have taken into
consideration the concerns of neighbors regarding street access , additional parking, lighting, and
drainage . The development will also include new sidewalks and new landscaping.
Councilmember Warner requested a response to the concerns rai s ed by residents regarding traffic ,
lighting, noise , and green space .
Angela Smith stated that the developers sought to make sure traffic would come from Hickory
Road , so the main entrance to the park is on Schreiner Way. There will be an addition of one
hundred and eighty-three (183) parking spaces to also help with increased traffic. There are many
City restrictions limiting the lighting on the property , which helps to reduce the possibility of
excess lighting. The addition of more baseball diamonds will hopefully allow for games to finish
earlier in the day ; therefore , preventing unwanted noi se and light later in the evening. There are
also new technologies that help to direct and reduce the sound from the fields.
Council President Lee asked how many more players this development may bring to the area.
Angela Smith stated that the diamonds would be phased-in , so it is not expected for there to be an
overwhelming increase in attendees all at once.
Councilmember Gooden-Rodgers asked if concessions would be offered at the facility.
Angela Smith stated that concessions would be offered and that bathrooms would be available.
The development will also allow for there to be an office on site, which will help with any security
concerns.
Councilmember Warner held the public hearing , and nobody spoke.
Council President Lee moved to send Bill No . 18-25 to the Full Council with a favorable
recommendation , which was seconded by Councilmember Dr. Davis and carried by a vote of eight
(8) ayes with one (1) councilmember absent.
Council President Canneth Lee -Aye
Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers -Aye
Councilmember Troy Warner -Aye
Councilmember Sheila Niezgodski -Aye
Councilmember Karen L. White -Aye
Council Vice President Rachel Tomas Morgan -Aye
Councilmember Sharon McBride-Aye
Councilmember Sherry Bolden-Simpson -A bs ent
Councilmember Dr. Oliver Davis -Aye
PUBLIC HEARING ON AN ORDINANCE OF
THE SOUTH BEND COMMON COUNCIL
CREA TING THE 2024 RDA TAXABLE LEASE
RENT AL REVENUE BOND CAP IT AL FUND
(#457)
Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council for its second (2 nd ) reading.
After the second (2 nd ) reading , Councilmember Niezgodski stated that Bill No . 20-25 went before
the Personnel and Finance Committee and comes with a favorable recommendation.
Council President Lee requested that the petitioner(s) state their name and address and share key
points before the council.
Kyle Willis , City Controller, with offices on the 12 th floor of the County-City Building, stated that
Bill No . 20-25 creates the 2024 RDA Taxable Lease Rental Revenue Bond Capital Fund (#457)
which will house the bond proceeds for the Madison Lifestyle District project. The project has
generated twenty-four million four hundred and eighty thousand dollars ($24,480 ,000) which can
only be used for the Madison Lifestyle District project.
5
REGULAR MEETING April 14, 2025
Council Vice President Tomas Morgan requested infonnation regarding the reason for the creation
of the fund.
Kyle Willis stated that the creation of the fund is to ensure accountability and clarity regarding the
funds for the Madison Lifestyle District project.
Councilmember Warner held the public hearing, and nobody spoke.
Councilmember Niezgodski moved to send Bill No . 20-25 to the Full Council with a favorable
recommendation, which was seconded by Council Vice President Tomas Morgan and carried by
a vote of eight (8) ayes with one (1) councilmember absent.
Council President Canneth Lee -Aye
Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers -Aye
Councilmember Troy Warner -Aye
Councilmember Sheila Niezgodski -Aye
Councilmember Karen L. White -Aye
21-25
Council Vice President Rachel Tomas Morgan -Aye
Councilmember Sharon McBride-Aye
Councilmember Sherry Bolden-Simpson -Absent
Councilmember Dr. Oliver Davis -Aye
PUBLIC HEARING ON AN ORDINANCE OF
THE SOUTH BEND COMMON COUNCIL
C REA TING THE 2024 RDA LEASE RENT AL
REVENUE BOND CAP IT AL FUND (#458)
Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council for its second (2 nd ) reading.
After the second (2 nd ) reading , Councilmember Niezgodski stated that Bill No . 21-25 went before
the Personnel and Finance Committee and comes with a favorable recommendation .
Council President Lee requested that the petitioner(s) state their name and address and share key
points before the council.
Kyle Willis , City Controller, with offices on the 12 th floor of the County-City Building, stated that
Bill No. 21-25 creates the 2024 RDA Lease Rental Revenue Bond Capital Fund (#458) which will
house the bond proceeds for the Four (4) Winds Field project. The project has generated forty-four
million eight hundred and sixty thousand dollars ($44 ,860 ,000) which can only be used for the
Four (4) Winds Field project.
Councilmember Warner asked when the proceeds of the bonds would be received.
Kyle Willis stated that the proceeds have already been received , and that the creation of the funds
is merely administrative. Construction on Four ( 4) Winds Field has already begun and is expected
to be completed by late 2026.
Councilmember Warner held the public hearing , and nobody spoke.
Councilmember Niezgodski moved to send Bill No. 2 1-25 to the Full Council with a favorable
recommendation, which was seconded by Councilmember Gooden-Rodgers and carried by a vote
of eight (8) ayes with one (1) councilmember absent.
Council President Canneth Lee -Aye
Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers -Aye
Councilmember Troy Warner -Aye
Councilmember Sheila Niezgodski -Aye
Councilmember Karen L. White -Aye
22-25
6
Council Vice President Rachel Tomas Morgan -Aye
Councilmember Sharon McBride-Aye
Councilmember Sherry Bolden-Simpson -Absent
Councilmember Dr. Oliver Davis -Aye
PUBLIC HEARING ON AN ORDINANCE OF
THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SOUTH BEND , INDIANA , TO VACATE THE
FOLLOWING DESCRIBED PROPERTY: THE
PORTION OF THE RIGHT-OF-WAY ALONG
THE SOUTH SIDE OF MARION STREET AND
EAST SIDE OF MAIN STREET FROM THE
ROUNDABOUT AT MICHIGAN STREET AND
REGULAR MEETING April 14, 2025
MARION STREET SOUTHWESTERLY TO
MADISON STREET
Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council for it s second (2 nd ) reading.
After the second (2 nd ) reading , Councilmember Niezgodski stated that Bill No. 22-25 went before
the Public Works and Property Vacation Committee and comes with a favorable recommendation.
Council President Lee requested that the petitioner(s) state their name and address and share key
points before the council.
Angela Smith , Danch Hamer and Associates , with offices located at 1643 Commerce Drive, South
Bend , IN 46628 , stated that Bill No. 22 -25 seeks to vacate the right-of-way adjacent to the
roundabout south of Beacon Hospital up to a foot behind the sidewalk. The vacation will allow for
a more urban style of development.
Councilmember Warner held the public hearing , and nobody spoke.
Council Vice President Tomas Morgan moved to send Bill No. 22-25 to the Full Council with a
favorable recommendation , which was seconded by Councilmember Niezgodski and carried by a
vote of eight (8) ayes with one (1) councilmember absent.
Council President Canneth Lee -Aye Council Vice President Rachel Tomas Morgan -Aye
Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers -Aye Councilmember Sharon McBride-Ay e
Councilmember Troy Warner -Aye Councilmember Sherry Bolden-Simpson -Abs ent
Councilmember Sheila Niezgodski -Aye Councilmember Dr. Oliver Davis -Aye
Councilmember Karen L. White -Aye
RISE AND REPORT
Councilmember Dr. Davis moved to rise from the Committee of the Whole and report back to the
Full Council, which was seconded by Councilmember McBride and carried via a vote by voice.
REGULAR MEETING RECONVENED
Council President Lee stated that the Full Council is now back in session. This portion of the
meeting is where bills are given a third (3 rd) reading and action is taken regarding bills that were
heard during the Committee of the Whole.
BILLS ON THE THIRD READING
BILL NO.
06-25 THIRD READING ON AN ORDINANCE OF THE
COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH
BEND , INDIANA , APPROVING A PETITION OF
THE ADVISORY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS
FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 411
COTT AGE GROVE A VENUE COUNCILMANIC
DISTRICT NO. 1 IN THE CITY OF SOUTH
BEND , INDIANA
Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council for its third (3 rd ) reading.
After the third (3 rd ) reading , Council President Lee requested a committee report .
Councilmember Warner stated that Bill No. 06-25 was heard in the Committee of the Whole and
comes to the Full Council with a favorable recommendation.
Council Vice President Tomas Morgan moved for the passage of Bill No . 06-25 , which was
seconded by Council member Dr. Davis and carried by a vote of eight (8) ayes with one (1)
councilmember absent.
Council President Canneth Lee -Aye Council Vice President Rachel Tomas Morgan -Aye
Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers -Aye Councilmember Sharon McBride-Aye
Councilmember Troy Warner -Aye Councilmember Sherry Bolden-Simpson -Absent
7
REGULAR MEETING
Councilmember Sheila Niezgodski -Aye
Councilmember Karen L. White -Aye
15-25
April 14, 2025
Councilmember Dr. Oliver Davis -Aye
THIRD READING ON AN ORDINANCE OF THE
COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH
BEND , INDIANA , APPROVING A PETITION OF
THE ADVISORY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS
FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1335
CORBY BOULEY ARD COUNCILMANIC
DISTRICT NO. 4 IN THE CITY OF SOUTH
BEND , INDIANA
Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council for its third (3 rd ) reading.
After the third (3 rd ) reading, Council President Lee requested a committee report.
Councilmember Warner stated that Bill No. 15-25 was heard in the Committee of the Whole and
comes to the Full Council with a favorable recommendation.
Councilmember McBride moved for the passage of Bill No. 15-25 , which was seconded by
Council member Dr. Davis and carried by a vote of eight (8) ayes with one ( 1) councilmember
absent.
Council President Canneth Lee -Aye
Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers -Aye
Councilmember Troy Warner -Aye
Councilmember Sheila ie zgo dski -Aye
Councilmember Karen L. White -Aye
16-25
Council Vice President Rachel Tomas Morgan -Aye
Co uncilmember Sharon McBride-Aye
Co uncil member Sherry Bolden-Simpson -Absent
Co uncilmember Dr. Oliver Davis -Aye
THIRD READING ON AN ORDINANCE OF THE
COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH
BEND , INDIANA , APPROVING A PETITION OF
THE ADVISORY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS
FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1253
CORBY BOULEY ARD COUNCILMANIC
DISTRICT NO. 4 IN THE CITY OF SOUTH
BEND , INDIANA
Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council for it s third (3 rd ) reading.
After the third (3 rd ) reading , Council President Lee requested a committee report.
Councilmember Warner stated that Bill No . 16-25 was heard in the Committee of the Whole and
comes to the Full Council with a favorable recommendation .
Councilmember McBride moved for the passage of Bill No. 16-25 , which was seconded by
Councilmember Dr. Davis and carried by a vote of eight (8) ayes with one (1) councilmember
absent.
Council President Canneth Lee -Aye
Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers -Aye
Councilmember Troy Warner -Ay e
Councilmember Sheila Niezgodski -Aye
Councilmember Karen L. White -Aye
18-25
8
Co uncil Vice President Rachel Tomas Morgan -Aye
Councilmember Sharon McBride-Aye
Councilmember Sherry Bolden-Simpson -A bsent
Co uncilmember Dr. Oliver Davis -Aye
THIRD READING ON AN ORDINANCE OF THE
COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH
BEND, INDIANA, APPROVING A PETITION OF
THE ADVISORY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS
FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1701
HICKORY ROAD COUNCILMANIC DISTRICT
0. 4 IN THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND , INDIANA
REGULAR MEETING April 14, 2025
Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council for its third (3 rd ) reading .
After the third (3 rd ) reading, Council President Lee requested a committee report.
Councilmember Warner stated that Bill No . 18-25 was heard in the Committee of the Whole and
comes to the Full Council with a favorable recommendation.
Councilmember Gooden-Rodgers moved for the passage of Bill No . 18-25 , which was seconded
by Council member Dr. Davis and carried by a vote of eight (8) ayes with one (1) council member
absent.
Council President Canneth Lee -Aye
Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers -Aye
Councilmember Troy Warner -Aye
Councilmember Sheila Niezgodski -Aye
Councilmember Karen L. White -Aye
20-25
Council Vice President Rachel Tomas Morgan -A ye
Councilmember Sharon McBride-Aye
Councilmember Sherry Bolden-Simpson -Absent
Councilmember Dr. Oliver Davis -Aye
THIRD READING ON AN ORDINANCE OF THE
SOUTH BEND COMMON COUNCIL CREATING
THE 2024 RDA TAXABLE LEASE RENTAL
REVENUE BOND CAP IT AL FUND (#457)
Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council for its third (3 rd ) reading.
After the third (3 rd ) reading, Council President Lee requested a committee report .
Councilmember Warner stated that Bill No . 20-25 was heard in the Committee of the Whole and
comes to the Full Council with a favorable recommendation.
Councilmember McBride moved for the passage of Bill No. 20-25 , which was seconded by
Councilmember Dr. Davis and carried by a vote of eight (8) ayes with one (1) council member
absent.
Council President Canneth Lee -Aye
Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers -Aye
Councilmember Troy Warner -Aye
Councilmember Sheila Niezgodski -Aye
Councilmember Karen L. White -Aye
21-25
Council Vice President Rachel Tomas Morgan -Aye
Councilmember Sharon McBride-Aye
Councilmember Sherry Bolden-Simpson -Absent
Councilmember Dr. Oliver Davis -Aye
THIRD READING ON AN ORDINANCE OF THE
SOUTH BEND COMMON COUNCIL CREA TING
THE 2024 RDA LEASE RENT AL REVENUE
BOND CAP IT AL FUND (#458)
Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council for its third (3 rd ) reading.
After the third (3 rd ) reading, Council President Lee requested a committee report.
Councilmember Warner stated that Bill No. 21-25 was heard in the Committee of the Whole and
comes to the Full Council with a favorable recommendation .
Councilmember Dr. Davis moved for the passage of Bill No . 21-25 , which was seconded by
Councilmember McBride and carried by a vote of eight (8) ayes with one (1) councilmember
absent.
Council President Canneth Lee -Aye
Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers -Aye
Councilmember Troy Warner -Aye
Councilmember Sheila Niezgodski -Aye
Councilmember Karen L. White -Aye
22-25
9
Council Vice President Rachel Tomas Morgan -A ye
Councilmember Sharon McBride-Aye
Councilmember Sherry Bolden-Simpson -Absent
Councilmember Dr. Oliver Davis -Aye
THIRD READING ON AN ORDINANCE OF THE
COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH
BEND , INDIANA , TO VACA TE THE
REGULAR MEETING April 14, 2025
FOLLOWING DESCRIBED PROPERTY: THE
PORTION OF THE RIGHT-OF-WAY ALONG
THE SOUTH SIDE OF MARION STREET AND
EAST SIDE OF MAIN STREET FROM THE
ROUNDABOUT AT MICHIGAN STREET AND
MARION STREET SOUTHWESTERLY TO
MADISON STREET
Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council for its third (3 rd ) reading .
After the third (3 rd ) reading , Council President Lee requested a committee report .
Councilmember Warner stated that Bill No. 22-25 was heard in the Committee of the Whole and
comes to the Full Council with a favorable recommendation.
Councilmember Dr. Davis moved for the passage of Bill No. 22-25 , which was seconded by
Councilmember Niezgodski and carried by a vote of eight (8) ayes with one (1) councilmember
absent.
Council President Canneth Lee -Aye
Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers -Aye
Councilmember Troy Warner -Aye
Councilmember Sheila Niezgodski -Aye
Councilmember Karen L. White -Aye
RESOLUTIONS
25-20
Council Vice President Rachel Tomas Morgan -Aye
Councilmember Sharon McBride-Aye
Councilmember Sherry Bolden-Simpson -Absent
Councilmember Dr. Oliver Davis -Aye
A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND , INDIANA ,
APPROVING THE ISSUANCE OF SCRAP
MET AL/JUNK DEALERS /RECYCLING
OPERATIONS LICENSES FOR CALENDAR
YEAR 2025 PURSUANT TO SECTION 4-51 OF
THE SOUTH BEND MUNICIPAL CODE
Clerk Tirado read the resolution to the Council.
After the reading Council President Lee requested a committee report .
Council member Warner stated Bill No. 25-20 was heard in the Community Investment Committee
and comes to the Full Council with a favorable recommendation .
Council President Lee requested that the petitioner(s) state their name and address and share key
points before the council.
Michelle Adams , Depa1iment of Community Investment , with offices on the 14 th floor of the
County-City Building, stated that Bill No . 25-2 0 requests the approval of six (6) scrap metal dealer
renewal applications: LKQ Pick Your Part Midwest LLC (1602 South Lafayette Boulevard), Big
Bulldog Auto Parts (3700 South Ge1irude Street), OmniSource LLC (1305 Prairie Avenue),
Republic Services (2500 Green Tech Drive), Stevie's Enterprises (3109 South Gertrude), and
Paul's Auto Yard (3300 South Main Street). These applications received favorable
recommendations regarding fire , code, and environmental compliance, also for proper
maintainence of the premises , and the height and condition of the fencing.
Councilmember Gooden-Rodgers asked how often inspections are conducted.
Michelle Adams stated that the municipal code requires two (2) inspections every year.
Councilmember Gooden-Rodgers asked if there had been any violations reported for the six (6)
compames .
Michelle Adams stated that she had not been infonned of any violations.
Council President Lee held the public hearing , and nobody spoke .
IO
REGULAR MEETING April 14, 2025
Councilmember Gooden-Rodgers moved for the adoption of Bill No. 25-20, which was seconded
by Councilmember Warner, and carried by a vote of eight (8) ayes with one (1) councilmember
absent.
Council President Canneth Lee -Aye
Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers -Aye
Councilmember Troy Warner -Aye
Councilmember Sheila Niezgodski -Aye
Councilmember Karen L. White -Aye
25-21
Council Vice President Rachel Tomas Morgan -Aye
Councilmember Sharon McBride-Aye
Councilmember Sherry Bolden-Simpson -Absent
Councilmember Dr. Oliver Davis -Aye
A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND , INDIANA ,
RECOMMENDING DENIAL OF A SCRAP
METAL/JUNK DEALERS /RECYCLING
OPERA TIO NS LICENSES FOR US SCRAP &
RECYCLING LLC PURSUANT TO SECTION 4-
51 OF THE SOUTH BEND MUNICIPAL CODE
Clerk Tirado read the resolution to the Council.
After the reading Council President Lee requested a committee report.
Councilmember Warner stated Bill No . 25-21 was heard in the Community Investment Committee
and comes to the Full Council with a favorable recommendation .
Council President Lee requested that the petitioner(s) state their name and address and share key
points before the council.
Michelle Adams , Department of Community Investment , with offices on the 14 th floor of the
County-City Building, stated that Bill No. 25-21 requests the denial of a scrap metal dealer license
renewal application for US Recycling LLC , in accordanc with Section 4-51 of the South Bend
Municipal Code. US Recycling LLC , located at 1610 Circle Avenue, received favorable
recommendations from the police department, the fire inspection bureau , neighborhood resources ,
and the zoning department. The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM)
found there to be multiple hazardous waste violations at 1610 Circle Avenue. Given the
environmental violations found on the property, the City is requesting the denial of US Recycling
LLC 's scrap metal dealer license renewal.
Caleb Bauer, Executive Director of Community Investment, with offices on the 14 th floor of the
County-City Building, stated that the violations found by IDEM included the failure to make a
waste determination on certain materials and releases identified in various locations at the site and
in containers, the shipping of large quantities of waste without notice to IDEM or documentation
from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the deposit of solid waste / containments(s)
upon the land in an unacceptable method . Six (6) days after US Recycling LLC presented
testimony that they were cooperating and complying with IDEM's restrictions, IDEM observed
multiple violations at 1610 Circle A venue.
Council President Lee opened the public hearing .
Richard Williams, 724 West Washington Street , South Bend , IN 46601 , spoke in favor of Bill No .
25-21.
John Hamilton, 913 West Colfax Avenue, South Bend , IN 46601 , spoke in favor of Bill No. 25-21.
Anne Mannix , 724 West Washington Street , South Bend , IN 46601 , spoke in favor of Bill No . 25-
21.
James Curlee , 2610 Sampson Street, South Bend , IN 46614, spoke in favor of Bill No . 25-21.
Donnie Rodgers , 508 1/2 West Washington Street , South Bend , IN 46601 , spoke in favor of Bill
No . 25-21.
Rafael Morton, St. Joseph County Commissioner, spoke in favor of Bill No. 25-21.
11
REGULAR MEETING April 14, 2025
Council President Lee closed the public hearing.
Councilmember Gooden-Rodgers thanked the residents that spoke, and thanked Councilmember
White.
Councilmember Dr. Davis thanked the administration and the neighbors that got involved.
Councilmember Dr. Davi s stated that the City should not do business with US Recycling LLC, and
should reassess oversight of scrap metal dealers in the City.
Council member White stated that the work for thi s project began in 2019 , and stated that she has
learned quite a lot regarding environmental justice. Councilmember White thanked
Councilmember McBride , County Commissioner Rafael Morton , Caleb Bauer, City
Administration, and the neighbors.
Council President Lee thanked Caleb Bauer, City Administration, the neighborhood association
Councilmember White, Councilmember McBride , and County Commissioner Rafael Morton .
Council Vice President Tomas Morgan moved for the adoption of Bill No. 25-21 , which was
seconded by Councilmember Dr. Davis , and carried by a vote of eight (8) ayes with one (1)
councilmember absent.
Council President Canneth Lee -Aye
Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers -Aye
Councilmember Troy Warner -Aye
Councilmember Sheila Niezgodski -Aye
Councilmember Karen L. White -Aye
25-22
Council Vice President Rachel Tomas Morgan -Aye
Councilmember Sharon McBride -Aye
Councilmember Sherry Bolden-Simpson -Absent
Councilmember Dr. Oliver Davis -Aye
A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL
OF SOUTH BEND , INDIANA ADOPTING
INDIANA CODE § 5-23 IN ITS ENTIRETY AND
AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND
BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS TO TAKE ALL
OTH ER ACTIONS RELATED THERETO
Clerk Tirado read the resolution to the Council.
After the reading Council President Lee requested a committee report .
Councilmember Niezgodski stated Bill No . 25-22 was heard in the Public Works and Property
Vacation Committee and comes to the Full Council with a favorable recommendation.
Council President Lee requested that the petitioner(s) state their name and address and share key
points before the council.
Michael Schmidt, Assistant City Attorney, with offices on the 12 th floor of the County-City
Building, stated that Bill No . 25 -22 authorizes the Board of Public Works to manage potential
future Build , Operate , and Transfer (BOT) projects.
Council President Lee held the public hearing, and nobody spoke.
Councilmember Niezgodski moved for the adoption of Bill No . 25-22, which was seconded by
Councilmember Gooden-Rodgers, and carried by a vote of seven (7) ayes with two (2)
councilmembers absent.
Council President Canneth Lee -Aye
Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers -Aye
Councilmember Troy Warner -Aye
Councilrnember Sheila Niezgodski -Aye
Councilrnernber Karen L. White -Aye
25-23
12
Co uncil Vice President Rachel Tomas Morgan -Aye
Councilmember Sharon McBride -Aye
Co uncilrnernber Sherry Bolden-Simpson -Absent
Co uncilrnember Dr. Oliver Davi s -Absent
A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND , INDIANA
AUTHORIZING AND APPROVING THE
EXECUTIO OF A FIRST AMENDMENT TO
REGULAR MEETING April 14, 2025
THE CERTIFIED TECHNOLOGY PARK
AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF SOUTH
BEN D , INDIANA , INDIANA ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION, AND THE
SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT
COMMISSION
Clerk Tirado read the resolution to the Council.
After the reading Council President Lee requested a committee report.
Councilmember Warner stated Bill No. 25-23 was heard in the Community Investment Committee
and comes to the Full Council with a favorable recommendation.
Council President Lee requested that the petitioner(s) state their name and address and share key
points before the council.
Joseph Molnar, Assistant Director of Growth and Opportunity, with offices on the 14 th floor of the
County-City Building, stated that Bill No. 25-23 authorizes the First (1 st) Amendment to the
Certified Technology Park (CTP) Agreement for Ignition and Innovation Park. CTP is a fund that
allows for the capture of property taxes that exceed the base assessed value for parcels within the
park. CTP also captures taxes from retail , use taxes of businesses in the Park, and State income
taxes paid by employees for wages earned for work in the Park. Bill No . 25-23 will allow Ignition
and Innovation Park to become recertified as a Level Two (2) CTP. CTP funds can be used for
acquisition, public works improvements , construction, environmental remediation , maintenance,
and public facilities.
Councilmember Warner stated that the CTP allows for the capture of not just property taxes, but
also State income taxes that would typically be taken out of the area.
Council Vice President Tomas Morgan requested information regarding the possibility and
timeline for receiving funds from 2023 and 2024.
Joseph Molnar stated that it is the City's opinion that the retroactive funds will be received, and
that should begin occuring after the Park's recertification.
Council President Lee asked what the plans are for Ignition and Innovation Park.
Joseph Molnar stated that there are multiple companies interested in the Park, but nothing is yet
confirmed.
Council President Lee held the public hearing, and nobody spoke.
Councilmember Warner moved for the adoption of Bill No . 25-23, which was seconded by Council
Vice President Tomas Morgan, and carried by a vote of eight (8) ayes with one ( 1) council member
absent.
Council President Canneth Lee -Aye
Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers -Aye
Councilmember Troy Warner -Aye
Councilmember Sheila Niezgodski -Aye
Councilmember Karen L. White -Aye
BILLS ON FIRST READING
BILL NO .
Council Vice President Rachel Tomas Morgan -Aye
Councilmember Sharon McBride-Aye
Councilmember Sherry Bolden-Simpson -Absent
Councilmember Dr. Oliver Davis -Aye
FIRST READING ON AN ORDINANCE OF THE
COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH
BEND , INDIANA , AMENDING CHAPTER 6,
ARTICLE 9 OF THE SOUTH BEND MUNICIPAL
CODE TO UPDATE THE REGULA TIO NS FOR
FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION
Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council for its first (1 s t) reading.
13
REGULAR MEETING April 14, 2025
Council President Lee entertained a motion to send Bill N o. 23-25 to the Public Works and
Property Vacation Committee for a public hearing and third (3 rd ) reading on April 28, 2025 .
Councilmember Niezgodski moved to send Bill No . 23-2 5 to the Public Works and Property
Vacation Committee for a public hearing and third (3 rd ) reading on April 28, 2025 , which was
seconded by Council Vice President Tomas Morgan and carried via a vote by voice.
24-25 FIRST READING ON AN ORDINANCE OF THE
COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH
BEND , INDIANA , APPROVING A PETITION OF
THE ADVISORY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS
FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1702
WESTERN AVENUE COUNCILMANIC
DISTRICT NO. 6 IN THE CITY OF SOUTH
BEND , INDIANA
Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council for its first (1 st) reading.
Council President Lee entertained a motion to send Bill No . 24-25 to the Board of Zoning Appeals
on May 5, 2025 , and to the Zoning and Annexation Committee for a public hearing and third (3 rd )
reading on May 12, 2025 .
Councilmember McBride moved to send Bill No . 24-25 to the Board of Zoning Appeals on May
5, 2025 , and to the Zoning and Annexation Committee for a public hearing and third (3 rd ) reading
on May 12 , 2025 , which was seconded by Councilmember White and carried via a vote by voice .
FIRST READING ON AN ORDINANCE OF THE
COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH
BEND , INDIANA , AMENDING CHAPTER 13 ,
ARTICLE 4 , SECTION 13-58 ; CHAPTER 2 ,
ARTICLE 12 , SECTION 2-142 ; AND CHAPTER
13 , ARTICLE 10 , SECTION 13-96 TO UPDATE
THE REGULA TIO NS FOR DISCHARGING
FIREARMS
Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council for its first (1 st) reading.
Council President Lee entertained a motion to send Bill No . 26-25 to the Health and Public Safety
Committee for a public hearing and third (3 rd ) reading on April 28, 2025 .
Councilmember McBride moved to send Bill No. 26-25 to the Health and Public Safety Committee
for a public hearing and third (3 rd ) reading on April 28, 2025 , which was seconded by
Councilmember Gooden-Rodgers and carried via a vote by voice.
27-25 FIRST READING ON AN ORDINANCE OF THE
COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH
BEND , INDIANA , AMENDING CHAPTER 13 ,
ARTICLE 7, SECTION 13-81 TO REPEAL THE
ORDINANCE PROHIBITING PUBLIC
NUISANCE NOISES
Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council for its first (1 st) reading.
Counci l President Lee entertained a motion to send Bill No . 27-25 to the Health and Public Safety
Committee for a public hearing and third (3 rd ) reading on April 28, 2025.
Councilmember McBride moved to send Bill N o. 27-25 to the Health and Public Safety Committee
for a public hearing and third (3 rd ) reading on April 28, 2025 , which was seconded by
Counci lmember Gooden-Rodgers and carried via a vote by voice .
28-25
14
FIRST READING ON AN ORDINANCE OF THE
COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH
BEND , INDIANA , AMENDING THE HISTORIC
REGULAR MEETING April 14, 2025
PRESERVATION TICKET SURCHARGE FOR
THE MORRIS PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council for its first (1 st) reading.
Co un ci l Pr es id en t Lee ent ertained a motion to Co unci l Pres id ent Lee ent ert ained a m oti on to se nd
Bill No . 28-25 to the Personnel and Finance Committee for a public hearing and third (3 rd ) reading
on April 28, 2025 .
Councilmember McBrid e moved to send Bill No. 28-25 to the Personnel and Finance Committee
for a public hearing and third (3 rd ) reading on April 28, 2025 , which was seconded by
Co u ncilmember Goo d en-Rodgers and carried via a vote by voice.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
NEW BUSINESS
Councilmember Dr. Davis congratulated Clerk Bianca Tirado for being selected for Michiana's
Forty Under Forty.
Councilmember Niezgodski stated that Amy Hill will be moving on from Transpo to a new
position at YWCA.
Council President Lee stated that on April 18, 2025 at 5:00p.m., at the Kingdom Christian Center,
the South Bend Police Department will be having a Cops and Conversation event. Council
President Lee visited Gary, Indiana for World Civility Day along with Councilmember White and
Gladys Muhammad.
PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR
None.
ADJOURNMENT
Council President Canneth Lee adjourned the meeting at 9: 18 p .m .
15