HomeMy WebLinkAboutRedevelopment Commission Agenda & Packet 08.27.26South Bend
Redevelopment Commission
215 S. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Room 301, South Bend, Indiana
Agenda
Regular Meeting
August 27, 2026 – 9:30 a.m.
City Hall Council Chambers 3rd Floor or via:
https://tinyurl.com/RDC2025-2026-Meetings
Meeting Recording Link: https://tinyurl.com/RDC-Meeting-Recordings
1. Roll Call
• David Relos, President – (Mayor) December 2025 to December 2026
• Karen White, Vice President – (Council) May 2026 to December 2027
• Eli Wax, Secretary – (Mayor) February 2025 to December 2027
• Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers, Commissioner – (Council) February 2025 to December 2027
• Maureen Miller - Commissioner (Mayor) July 2026 to December 2029
• Marcus Ellison, Non-Voting Advisor – (School Board) February 2025 to December 2026
2. Approval of Minutes
A. Minutes of the Regular Meeting of August 13, 2026
3. Approval of Claims
A. Claims Allowance August 11, 2026
B. Claims Allowance August 13, 2026
4. Old Business
A. None
5. New Business
A. River West Development Area
1. Reimbursement to RWDA from Professional Sports and Convention
Development Area for Four Winds Field Expansion Design
6. Progress Reports
A. Tax Abatement
B. Common Council
C. Updates
7. Next Commission Meeting
Thursday, September 10, 2026, 9:30 a.m. at Council Chambers, Room 301
South Bend
Redevelopment Commission
215 S. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Room 301, South Bend, Indiana
Page | 2
8. Adjournment
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South Bend
Redevelopment Commission
215 S. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Room 301, South Bend, Indiana
Minutes
Regular Meeting
August 13, 2026 – 9:30 a.m.
City Hall Council Chambers 3rd Floor or via:
https://tinyurl.com/RDC2025-2026-Meetings
Meeting Recording Link: https://tinyurl.com/RDC-Meeting-Recordings
The South Bend Redevelopment Commission was called to order at 9:30 a.m.
President David Relos presiding. President Relos introduced the newest member of the
Commission Maureen (Mo) Miller. Ms. Miller stated, I’m honored to join the
Redevelopment Commission. I recently served on the City of South Bend Plan
Commission and have been involved with redevelopment efforts in our community for
many years. As a lifelong South Bend resident, I’m excited to help support the City’s
continued growth and investment. Thank you for the opportunity to serve.
1. ROLL CALL
Members Present: David Relos, President
Karen White, Vice President
Eli Wax, Secretary
Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers, Commissioner
Maureen Miller, Commissioner
Marcus Ellison, Non-Voting Advisor
Legal Counsel: Danielle Campbell Weiss, Senior Asst. City Attorney
Redevelopment Staff: Joseph Molnar, Deputy Director, DCI
Lewis Kouassi, Director of Finance, DCI
April Canahuati, Asst. Dir. of Growth and Opp., DCI
Erin Michaels, Property Development Manager, DCI
Michael Divita, Principal Planner, DCI
Allison Doctor, Project Manager, DCI
Laura Hensley, Board Secretary, DCI
Attending: Eric Horvath, Director of Public Works - Virtual
Abigail Magas, City Engineer, Engineering
Leslie Biek, Assist. City Engineer, Engineering
Nifemi Oluwatomini, Senior Engineer, Engineering
Charlotte Brach, Assist. City Engineer, Engineering
CITY OF SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING – August 13, 2026
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Carl Hetler, Homeless Coordinator, DCI
Matt Barrett, 110 S. Niles Ave.
Hodge Patel, 315 W. Jefferson Blvd.
David Phillips, 4210 Lincolnway West
Beth Sanford, 1013 N. Saint Peter St.
Brad Emberton, 615 W. Colfax Ave.
Willow Wetherall, 217 S. Michigan St.
Mark Neal, 112 W Jefferson Blvd.
2. Approval of Minutes
A. Approval of Minutes of the Regular Meeting of Thursday, July 23, 2026
Upon a motion by Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers for approval, second by Karen
White, the motion was carried unanimously; the Commission approved the
minutes of the regular meeting of July 23, 2026.
3. Approval of Claims
A. Claims Allowances July 14, 2026
Upon a motion by Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers for approval second by Eli
Wax, the motion carried unanimously; the Commission approved the
claims allowances of July 14, 2026.
B. Claims Allowances July 21, 2026
Upon a motion by Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers for approval second by Eli
Wax, the motion carried unanimously; the Commission approved the
claims allowances of July 21, 2026.
4. Old Business
A. None
5. New Business
A. Redevelopment General Fund (a.k.a Pokagon-South Bend Fund)
1. Budget Request (Beacon Resource Center Donation)
Allison Doctor, Project Manager of Community Investment presented a
$50,000 funding request from the Pokagon South Bend Fund to
support a roof replacement at the Beacon Resource Center, a nonprofit
community facility located at 4210 Lincoln Way West. Housed in the
former Beacon Bowling Alley, the center provides space for a variety of
educational, recreational, mentoring, workforce development, and
community programs, including partnerships with the Police Athletic
League, South Bend Community School Corporation Adult Education,
South Bend Co-op, and South Bend Roller Derby.
CITY OF SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING – August 13, 2026
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Ms. Doctor explained that the funding would cover a portion of the
$178,000 roof replacement project and help ensure the facility can
continue serving as a community hub on the city's west side. The
project aligns with Pokagon Fund priorities by supporting educational
opportunities and addressing poverty and unemployment through
community programming.
David Phillips, a Beacon Resource Center board member, spoke in
support of the request, highlighting the organization's role in providing
affordable space for community partners and programs. He noted that
the aging roof is leaking and requires replacement to preserve the
facility for long-term community use. Phillips reported that private
donors and partner organizations have committed the remaining funds
needed to complete the project.
Secretary Wax asked for additional information about the capital
campaign and the total amount raised for the project. Mr. Phillips
explained that the total roof replacement project cost is approximately
$178,000. The requested $50,000 City contribution would be
combined with funding secured from private donors and partner
organizations, including a direct contribution from a church that utilizes
the facility.
Commissioners Gooden-Rodgers and President Relos both spoke in
favor of the program.
Upon a motion by Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers for approval, seconded by
Karen White, the motion carried unanimously; the Commission
approved the Budget Request as presented on August 13, 2026.
B. River West Development Area
1. Budget Request (Downtown Viaduct Improvements)
Joseph Molnar, Deputy Director of Community Investment presented
the Downtown Viaduct Improvement Project request for $1,000,000, a
key recommendation of the Downtown South Bend 2045 Plan. The
project focuses on enhancing the Lafayette, Main, and Michigan Street
rail viaducts through improved lighting, landscaping, wayfinding, public
art, safety features, and infrastructure repairs.
Mr. Molnar noted that extensive community engagement, including
stakeholder meetings and a public open house, identified the viaducts
as a top public realm priority. Feedback emphasized the need for safer,
more welcoming gateways into downtown that improve the pedestrian
experience and create a cohesive identity for the area.
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The proposed phased approach includes immediate improvements such
as vegetation removal, way finding, cleaning, painting, and lighting
upgrades, followed by larger investments in surface repairs, public art,
intersection enhancements, and security improvements. Funding from
River West TIF would support both initial improvements and design
work for future phases.
Vice President White inquired about how many viaducts need
improvements and how does the City prioritize them and is improving
the Western Avenue/Olive Street intersection and Walnut Street
viaduct a priority? Mr. Molnar stated, yes. The City is actively discussing
improvements at both locations and recognizes them as priorities.
Secretary Wax asked how these infrastructure improvements address
safety concerns under the viaducts, as well as expressing concern that
funding could be wasted if underlying issues are not addressed? Mr.
Molnar explained that the improvements such as enhanced lighting,
maintenance, and security measures can make the areas feel safer and
less inviting for disruptive activity. However, infrastructure
improvements alone are not enough and must be paired with broader
policy and enforcement efforts. Mr. Molnar also emphasized that
infrastructure investments should be part of a comprehensive strategy
that includes enforcement, maintenance, and public safety initiatives to
ensure lasting benefits.
Secretary Wax asked what specific safety improvements are being
considered and have City departments discussed policy changes and
enforcement strategies? Mr. Molnar explained that potential
improvements include better lighting, security cameras, routine
cleaning, and other measures designed to improve safety and visibility.
Also, a working group that includes the Mayor's Office, South Bend
Police, South Bend Fire, DTSB, and other departments is meeting
regularly to develop policy initiatives, enforcement strategies, and
maintenance plans, particularly for the Main Street viaduct.
Commissioner Ellison asked how will the City balance enforcement with
concerns about homelessness and have the railroad companies been
asked to contribute to viaduct improvements? Mr. Molnar noted that
not everyone using these spaces is a "bad actor." They emphasized the
need for a comprehensive approach that addresses public safety
concerns while recognizing the challenges faced by individuals
experiencing homelessness. Mr. Molnar also stated that the City has
been working to strengthen relationships with the railroad companies.
While discussions are ongoing, potential financial contributions from
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the railroad companies are being explored. Also, City staff reported
improved communication and engagement with railroad
representatives compared to previous years, which may create future
opportunities for partnership.
President Relos asked what is the overall approach to these projects?
Mr. Molnar agreed that physical improvements, security enhancements,
maintenance, enforcement, and community partnerships must work
together as part of a comprehensive strategy to improve safety and
usability. President Relos also commented that lighting was identified
as an important first step that could significantly improve safety and
perception while broader solutions are developed.
Commissioner Miller inquired about what the railroad’s responsibility is
for the viaducts, and who owns them and is there any concern that the
viaducts will require major reconstruction, making these improvements
a poor investment? Mr. Molnar responded that the railroad owns the
viaduct structures and the right-of-way for rail operations.
Responsibility for the roads and sidewalks varies by location. For
example, INDOT manages the Main Street right-of-way, while the City
is responsible for areas such as Michigan and Lafayette Streets. The
City is coordinating with both the railroads and INDOT on
improvement efforts. He also stated that no concerns have been
identified regarding the structural integrity of the viaducts. Based on
current information, investing in visual, safety, and infrastructure
enhancements is considered a worthwhile use of funds and is not
expected to be impacted by the need for major reconstruction.
Kevin Smith, Mark Neal, Brad Emberton, Heather Mae, Beth Sanford,
and Willow Wetherall all spoke in favor of the project.
Secretary Wax asked have cameras, including those with visible blue
emergency lights, been effective in discouraging people from
congregating in these areas? Mr. Molnar deferred to public safety
officials for data on camera effectiveness, he noted that visible security
measures such as cameras, lighting, and public art can help create the
perception that a space is monitored, maintained, and intended for
public use. This can discourage inappropriate activity and encourage
safer use of the area.
Commissioner Ellison asked what is the anticipated timeline between
Phase 1 and Phase 2 improvements and will the City evaluate the
success of Phase 1 before moving forward with additional
improvements? Mr. Molnar stated that security improvements,
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including lighting and cameras, are expected to be among the first
projects implemented, with rollout beginning as quotes and bids are
received. The City plans to take an incremental approach, evaluating
the effectiveness of each improvement before determining the scope
and priorities of future phases. Mr. Molnar also stated to answer the
second question, yes. He emphasized that the project would remain
flexible and data driven. The City will assess how improvements such as
lighting, cameras, and other security measures impact safety and
activity levels before making decisions on future phases. Commissioner
Ellison commented that he encouraged the City to continue pursuing
financial contributions from the railroad companies, noting that they
benefit from the viaducts and should be considered partners in the
improvement effort.
Upon a motion by Eli Wax for approval, seconded by Maureen Miller,
the motion carried unanimously; the Commission approved the Budget
Request as presented on August 13, 2026.
2. Resolution No. 3677 (Pledging Certain Tax Increment Revenues to the
Repayment of a Section 108 HUD Loan (Western Ave Transformation
Project)
Joseph Molnar, Deputy Director of Community Investment, presented
a resolution related to the Western Avenue Transformation District.
The resolution would provide collateral backing for a HUD Section 108
loan that supports infrastructure investments within the project.
The Western Avenue Transformation District redevelops former public
housing sites on the southwest edge of downtown. Phase 1 includes
the former Monroe Circle and Rabbi Shulman properties. Future phases
may include additional Housing Authority and Redevelopment
Commission-owned properties. The project is a partnership among the
Housing Authority of South Bend, the City of South Bend, the
Community Foundation of St. Joseph County, and The Michaels
Organization, a national affordable housing developer selected through
a competitive RFP process.
When complete, Phases 1 and 2 are expected to create approximately
210 mixed-income housing units. Funding sources include Lilly
Endowment support, READI 2.0 funds, HUD financing, Low-Income
Housing Tax Credits, private equity, and local partners.
Mr. Molnar explained that former residents of the site will receive
priority for leasing opportunities if they wish to return once
construction is complete. Future residents will include a mix of income-
restricted and market-rate households. The project consists entirely of
new construction, along with streetscape improvements designed to
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strengthen connections to downtown, enhance Western Avenue, and
improve surrounding streets. Plans also include an on-site childcare
center, located on the ground floor of the main building, and a new
public park for residents and the neighborhood.
The development will feature multiple residential buildings, including a
larger mixed-use building along Western Avenue, smaller residential
buildings throughout the site, a new internal street connection, and
enhanced pedestrian amenities to activate the streetscape.
Mr. Molnar provided an overview of the HUD Section 108 Loan
Program, which allows communities to leverage future Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding to finance major
redevelopment projects.
The City receives approximately $2.3 million annually in CDBG funding
from HUD to support community development activities, including
affordable housing, infrastructure improvements, economic
development, and nonprofit programs.
Under the proposed financing structure, the City would use a $10
million HUD Section 108 loan to support the Western Avenue
Transformation District. The loan would be repaid over time using
future CDBG allocations, with annual debt service estimated at
approximately 22% of the City's current annual CDBG funding. The
remaining CDBG funds would continue to support other eligible
community development priorities.
In summary, the City would leverage future HUD funding to secure a
$10 million loan today, using a portion of future CDBG allocations for
repayment while advancing a significant mixed-income housing
development.
Mr. Molnar asked what does the resolution do? He responded HUD
requires additional collateral as a safeguard for the Section 108 loan.
While Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds are
expected to repay the loan, the resolution would pledge River West TIF
revenues as backup collateral in the unlikely event that CDBG funding
is significantly reduced. He also asked, how likely is it that the backup
collateral would be needed? Mr. Molnar indicated it is highly unlikely.
CDBG funding would need to decrease substantially before it could no
longer support the loan payments, and the program has historically
received bipartisan federal support.
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Commissioner Ellison asked what impact this would have on River West
TIF revenues and how long the loan term is. Mr. Molnar responded, if
the backup collateral were ever needed, annual loan payments would
represent approximately 5-6% of River West TIF revenues, leaving
most revenues available for other purposes. He also indicated the HUD
loan has an anticipated repayment period of approximately 20 years.
Secretary Wax asked would TIF funds be set aside for the entire 20-
year term, are future CDBG funds already committed to other projects,
and are there other long-term commitments against CDBG funding?
Mr. Molnar explained no. The resolution would pledge that sufficient
TIF revenues are available if needed, but the expectation is that annual
CDBG allocations will make the loan payments. To answer the second
question, he stated that CDBG funds are generally allocated annually
and are not typically committed years in advance. Once the loan is
approved, a portion of future CDBG allocations will be reserved for
loan repayment, with the remaining funds continuing to support eligible
community development activities. Mr. Molnar responded to the last
question, and we’re not aware of any other ongoing commitments of a
similar nature and noted that CDBG funding is typically allocated to
individual projects on an annual basis.
President Relos discussed the structure of the CDBG program and
noted that South Bend receives an allocation through a federal funding
consortium. They further noted that only a portion of the City's annual
CDBG allocation would be used for loan repayment, with the majority
remaining available to support affordable housing and other eligible
community development projects.
Brad Emberton thanked Mr. Molnar for his thoughtful and detailed
presentation and spoke in favor of Resolution.
President Relos asked why does the development not use the entire
block owned by the Redevelopment Commission, what will happen to
the remaining property, and will the project replace the affordable
housing units that were removed? Mr. Molnar explained that the
original concept included the entire block, but after project design and
unit count requirements were finalized, the developer determined that
the additional land was not needed. Rather than overextending the site,
the project footprint was reduced, leaving the northern portion
available for future redevelopment opportunities. Mr. Molnar also
noted the importance of preserving appropriate sightlines to St.
Patrick’s Church in any future development. To answer the second
question, the remaining land will continue to be owned by the
Redevelopment Commission and reserved for future development. And
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for the last question, yes. Mr. Molnar noted that, across the planned
phases, the development will provide more income-eligible housing
units than previously existed at the former Rabbi Shulman and Monroe
Circle sites.
Commissioner Gooden-Rodgers asked about the timeline. Mr. Molnar
stated that if the Common Council approves the resolution, the City
anticipates awarding the infrastructure contract in late August or early
September, pending final HUD approvals. Construction of the
infrastructure improvements would begin shortly thereafter, with site
work expected to start this fall. Also, housing construction is expected
to follow a few months after the infrastructure work begins. Both
public infrastructure improvements and private development activities
will occur concurrently, with vertical construction potentially becoming
visible by next Spring.
Upon a motion by Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers for approval, seconded by
David Relos, the motion carried unanimously; the Commission
approved Resolution No. 3677 as presented on August 13, 2026.
3. Resolution No. 3678 (Establishing Funds and Accounts in Connection
with the Lease Dated as of July 1, 2026, Between the South Bend
Redevelopment Commission and the South Bend Redevelopment
Authority and Other Related Matters Redevelopment Authority Lease
Rental Revenue Bonds, Series 2026)
Joseph Molnar, Deputy Director of Community Investment presented
the proposed River West Neighborhood Bond, noting that this was the
third time the Redevelopment Commission had reviewed the proposal
and that the bond approval represented the final step in the public
approval process. He explained that the previous River West bond,
issued in 2023, funded several West side projects that are now
completed or under construction, including Kennedy Park
improvements, the MLK Dream Center, Linden Avenue streetscape
enhancements, Southeast Park improvements, Walker Field upgrades,
the Madison Lifestyle District’s parking garage, and Portage-Elwood
sidewalk improvements project.
Mr. Molnar stated that all required approvals from the Redevelopment
Commission, Redevelopment Authority, Common Council, and Board of
Public Works had been secured over the previous two months, with
RDC approval serving as the final authorization. If approved, bond
closing is anticipated around October 1, 2026.
He reviewed the proposed project list, beginning with Coal Line Trail
Phase III, which would extend the existing multimodal trail connecting
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Lincoln Way West to U.S. 933 utilizing former rail right-of-way. Phases
I and II were completed in 2022 and 2024.
Mr. Molnar also highlighted proposed infrastructure investments
supporting redevelopment of the former Drewry’s Brewery, Portage-
Elwood Shopping Center sites, College Street improvements, a Near
Westside Neighborhood Park, and the Rum Village Neighborhood
Center. Following environmental remediation and site clearing
conducted in partnership with the EPA and IDEM, the City has worked
extensively with neighborhood residents since 2018 to identify
redevelopment priorities. Community feedback has emphasized
restoring the commercial corridor with opportunities for a grocery
store, shops, restaurants, and mixed-income housing. Bond proceeds
would support the initial streets, utilities, and infrastructure necessary
for the first phase of redevelopment, supplemented by state grant and
loan funding.
In conjunction with the redevelopment, funding is proposed for
improvements to Muessel Grove Park, including new amenities and
potential expansion into a portion of the former Drewry’s property,
consistent with community input received over time.
Mr. Molnar further described infrastructure improvements associated
with the Tri-Day development partnership with South Bend Heritage,
including road and utility improvements needed to support the project
and a new access road from Old Cleveland Road. He noted the project
would be similar in scope to the recently completed Southland Thrive
development on the east side.
Finally, he discussed plans for a Morris Performing Arts Center parking
garage as part of the Morris 100 initiative. The project would serve as
the third phase of the Encore campaign, following renovations to the
theater and construction of the Raclin Murphy Encore Center. Mr.
Molnar noted that private funding has already been raised and is
awaiting a city funding match. The proposed garage would improve
accessibility, address parking shortages during events, and provide a
direct connection to the Encore Center, as originally envisioned in the
project design.
Secretary Wax asked is the College Street project separate from and
unrelated to the next item on the agenda? Mr. Molnar explained that the
two items are related. Because the City wants to begin improvements
as soon as possible, the next agenda item requests funding for the
engineering and design work needed for the College Street
improvements. If the River West Neighborhood Bond is approved,
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those upfront design costs would be reimbursed through bond
proceeds. The appropriation would allow the project to move forward
immediately rather than waiting for the bond to close.
Upon a motion by Eli Wax for approval, seconded by Karen White, the
motion carried unanimously; the Commission approved Resolution No.
3678 as presented on August 13, 2026.
4. Budget Request (College St. Streetscape Design)
Nifemi Oluwatomini, Senior Engineer, Engineering presented a request
for $180,000 in design funding for the proposed College Street
Improvements Project. The project focuses on enhancing pedestrian
accessibility, roadway infrastructure, and corridor aesthetics along
College Street from Lincoln Way West to Linden Avenue.
Improvements would include new sidewalks on the East side of the
corridor, curb and ADA-compliant curb ramp upgrades, roadway
resurfacing, street lighting enhancements, and streetscape
improvements. The design also proposes narrowing the roadway to
approximately 28 feet curb-to-curb to help calm traffic and create a
more pedestrian-friendly residential environment.
Mr. Oluwatomini explained that the project is intended to coordinate
with Coal Line Trail Phase III, allowing construction activities to occur
simultaneously or in close succession. The improvements would help
connect Coal Line Trail Phases II and III, creating a more cohesive trail
network.
Mr. Oluwatomini added that the requested design funding would be
paid from the River West TIF, with the expectation that the costs
would later be reimbursed through the proposed River West
Neighborhood Bond. Leslie Biek, Assist. City Engineer, Engineering
clarified that although the College Street improvements and Coal Line
Trail Phase III share the same corridor, they are separate projects. Coal
Line Trail Phase III, located on the west side of the roadway, is already
being designed using previously awarded federal funding and is
expected to advance through the INDOT letting process next year. The
College Street project pertains to improvements on the east side of the
roadway, including sidewalks and traffic-calming measures that
complement the trail project and improve neighborhood safety and
aesthetics.
In response to a question from President Relos, Ms. Biek confirmed
that on-street parking would remain available following completion of
the project.
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Upon a motion by Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers for approval, seconded by
David Relos, the motion carried unanimously; the Commission
approved the Budget Request as presented on August 13, 2026.
5. Second Amendment to Network Operating Center Lease for Union
Station (1547 CSR)
Erin Michaels, Property Development Manager of Community
Investment, presented a proposed Second Amendment to the Network
Operations Center Lease at Union Station. She provided background on
the lease, explaining that when the City acquired Union Station in July
2025, the Redevelopment Commission assumed an existing lease with
1547. The company owns the adjacent parcel, and its sole access point
currently runs through Union Station. 1547 CSR is in the process of
constructing a separate entrance that will allow the two properties to
operate independently.
Ms. Michaels explained that under the current lease, 1547 occupies
approximately 1,000 square feet consisting of a security station and
several small offices near the entrance of Union Station. As part of the
lease arrangement, 1547 provides 24-hour, seven-day-a-week security
services for the building. Based on staff research, those security
services are valued at approximately $10,000 to $15,000 per month,
while estimated rental income for the leased space would total only
about $2,000 per month. As a result, staff believes the security services
provide significant value to the City and help protect the historic
downtown asset. Ms. Michaels noted that the current lease is
scheduled to expire on August 19, 2026. The proposed amendment
would extend the lease through February 28, 2027, after which it
would automatically continue a month-to-month basis under the same
terms and conditions. Either party would retain the right to terminate
the agreement at any time with 60 days’ written notice.
Ms. Michaels stated that the extension would provide 1547 additional
time to complete construction of its separate entrance while ensuring
that Union Station continues to benefit from 24-hour security services
throughout the lease term.
President Relos asked, following February 28, 2027, does the lease
convert to a month-to-month arrangement, and does the 60-day notice
requirement still apply? Ms. Michaels stated yes. She confirmed that
after February 28, 2027, the lease will automatically continue a month-
to-month basis under the same terms and conditions. The 60-day
written notice requirement will remain in effect, meaning neither party
CITY OF SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING – August 13, 2026
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can terminate the lease without providing at least 60 days' advance
notice. This ensures the City would have adequate time to arrange
alternative security services if needed.
Upon a motion by David Relos for approval, seconded by Ophelia
Gooden-Rodgers, the motion carried unanimously; the Commission
approved the Amendment as presented on August 13, 2026.
6. Progress Reports
A. Tax Abatement
Joseph Molnar, Deputy Director of Community Investment, reported that
the Common Council approved two declaratory Resolutions at its meeting
on Monday. The first authorized a five-year personal property tax
abatement for Tenneco Automotive, located at 3605 W. Cleveland Road.
The company plans to invest approximately $8 million in new
manufacturing equipment and create 80 new jobs, with average salaries
exceeding $72,000 annually, including many skilled welding positions.
The second resolution approved an eight-year tax abatement for a new
GLC industrial spec building within the Portage Prairie development area
on the Northwest side. The proposed 132,000-square-foot facility is
designed to accommodate a variety of industrial users and represents an
estimated $8.8 million investment. Staff noted that a prospective tenant
has already been identified.
B. Common Council
Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers invited all community members to attend the
meetings on the 2nd & 4th Mondays each month.
C. Other
None
7. Next Commission Meeting
Thursday, August 27, 2026, 9:30 a.m., City Hall Council Chambers 3rd Floor
8. Adjournment
Thursday, August 13, 2026, 11:06 a.m.
______________________________ ______________________________
Eli Wax, Secretary David Relos, President
City of South Bend
Department of Administration & Finance
Claims Allowance Request
To:South Bend Redevelopment Commission
From:Kyle Willis, City Controller
Date:Tuesday, August 11, 2026
Pursuant to Indiana Code 36-4-8-7, I have audited and certified the attached claims and
submit them for allowance in the following amounts:
GBLN-0141320 $355,305.48
GBLN-0142487 $566,639.23
GBLN-0142867 $1,754,531.29
Total:$2,676,476.00
_______________________________
Kyle Willis
The attached claims described above were allowed in the following
total amount at a public meeting on the date stated below:
South Bend Redevelopment Commission
By:_______________________________
Name:
Date:
Attest:_______________________________
Name:
Expenditure approval
RDC Payments-? /28/26 Pymt Run
GBLN-0141320
Payment method: ACH-Total
Voucher: RDCP-00050415
Payment date: 7/28/2026
Vendor# Name
ABONMARCHE
CONSULTANTS
V-00000019 OF IN
Payment method: ACH-Total
Voucher: RDCP-00050416
Payment date: 7/28/2026
Vendor# Name
OZINGA READY
MIX CONCRETE
V-00001262 INC
OZINGA READY
MIX CONCRETE
V-00001262 INC
OZINGA READY
MIX CONCRETE
V-00001262 INC
Payment method: ACH-Total
Voucher: RDCP-00050417
Payment date: 7/28/2026
Vendor# Name
RITSCHARD
V-00001417 BROS INC
RITSCHARD
V-00001417 BROS INC
Payment method: ACH-Total
Invoice#
164723
Invoice#
ARI03745429
ARI03745431
ARI03731527
Invoice#
APP #1
APP #2
Line description
Abonmarche Design Services - Amendment #3
Line description
Class A concrete
Class A concrete
Class A concrete
Line description
Drewry's Cleanup, Phase Ill
Drewry's Cleanup, Phase Ill
Due date
7/30/2026
Due date
8/6/2026
8/7/2026
8/5/2026
Due date
5/31/2026
7/1/2026
Invoice amount Financial dimensions
430-10-102-121-431002--
$500.00 PROJ00000623
Invoice amount Financial dimensions
429-10-102-121-444000--
$4,288.50 PROJ00000567
429-10-102-121-444000--
$2,910.00 PROJ00000567
429-10-102-121-444000--
$4,203.00 PROJ00000567
Invoice amount Financial dimensions
324-10-102-121-439018-
$183,330.00
$110,457.78
RIFLOAN-PROJ00000627
324-10-102-121-439018-
RIFLOAN-PROJ00000627
Purchase order
PO-0039235
Purchase order
PO-0044053
PO-0044053
PO-0044053
Purchase order
PO-0041751
PO-0041751
City of South Bend
Department of Administration & Finance
Claims Allowance Request
To:South Bend Redevelopment Commission
From:Kyle Willis, City Controller
Date:Thursday, August 13, 2026
Pursuant to Indiana Code 36-4-8-7, I have audited and certified the attached claims and
submit them for allowance in the following amounts:
GBLN-0143515 $6,499,307.50
GBLN-0000000 $0.00
GBLN-0000000 $0.00
Total:$6,499,307.50
_______________________________
Kyle Willis
The attached claims described above were allowed in the following
total amount at a public meeting on the date stated below:
South Bend Redevelopment Commission
By:_______________________________
Name:
Date:
Attest:_______________________________
Name:
South Bend
Redevelopment Commission
215 S. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Room 301, South Bend, Indiana
Redevelopment Commission Agenda Item
DATE : 8/20/2026
FROM: Joseph Molnar,
Deputy Director DCI
SUBJECT: PSCDA Reimbursement for River West TIF
Four Winds Field Expansion
Funding Source* (circle) River West; River East; South Side; Douglas Road; West Washington; RDC General; Riv. East Res.
* Funds are subject to the City Controller's determination of availability; if funds are unavailable, as solely determined by the City Controller,
then the authorization of the expenditure of such funds shall be void and of no effect.
PURPOSE OF REQUEST: Reimbursement to the River West TIF for $2.6M from the PSCDA for costs for
full design documents
SPECIFICS: As part of the expansion and renovation of Four Winds Field, the Redevelopment
Commission approved $2.6M from the River West Development Area funds to pay for the full design
services toward the bidding and construction of the expansion of Coveleski Stadium. Afterwards, the
City issued a bond utilizing the Professional Sports and Convention Development Area (PSCDA) fund to
pay for full construction. The PSCDA captures funds directly from sales tax and other revenues
generated by Four Winds Field this ensures that these funds remain local. Construction of the expansion
and the renovation are largely completed.
The design funds originally appropriated were in addition to the bond funding from the PSCDA and were
intended to be reimbursed to the River West TIF when the PSCDA would be able to do so. The PSCDA
funding has now reached the point where the $2.6M can be refunded to the River West TIF. Acceptance
of this budget request will reimburse the River West TIF the funding amount.
Staff recommends approval.
______________ ___________Pres/V-Pres
ATTEST: __________ _______ _
Date: _____________ _______
APPROVED Not Approved
SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION