HomeMy WebLinkAbout08-15-13 Redevelopment Commission MinutesSOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING
Thursday, August 15, 2013
9:30 a.m.
Presiding: Marcia I. Jones, President
1. ROLL CALL
227 West Jefferson Boulevard
South Bend, Indiana
Members Present: Ms. Marcia Jones, President
Dr. David Varner, Vice President
Ms. Valeria Schey Sr., Secretary
Mr. Greg Downes (part of meeting)
Mr. Stan Wruble
Mr. Don Inks
Legal Counsel:
Mr. Lawrence Meteiver, Esq.
Redevelopment Staff Mr. David Relos, Economic Development Specialist
Mrs. Cheryl Phipps, Recording Secretary
Ms. Debrah Jennings, Property Manager
Others Present: Mr. Scott Ford, Executive Director
Mr. Chris Dressel, Planner
Mr. Michael Divita, Planner
Ms. Sue Solmos
Mr. Conrad Damian
Mr. William Hollingsworth
Mr. Mike Mecham, City Engineer
Ms. Mo Miller
Ms. Kelli Stopczynski, WSBT
WSBT Photographer
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. Approval of Minutes of the Regular Meeting of Thursday, July 25, 2013
Upon a motion by Ms. Schey, seconded by Mr. Varner and unanimously carried, the
Commission approved the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of Thursday, July 25, 2013.
1
South Bend Redevelopment Commission
Regular Meeting — Thursday, August 15, 2013
3. APPROVAL OF CLAIMS
324 AIRPORT AREA
DNA
South Bend Tribune
Sopko, Nussbaum, Inabnit &
Kaczmarek
Plews Shadley Racher &Braun LLP
South Bend Water Works
CA Studios
Hull & Associates Inc.
IDEM
Tri- M- Construction, Inc.
Jones Petrie Rafinski
420 FUND TIF DISTRICT -SBCDA GENERAL
Meridian Title Corporation
Jerome E Michaels, MAI
R.E. Pitts & Associates, Inc.
David Waszak Appraisals, Inc.
Sopko, Nussbaum, Inabnit &
Kaczmarek
DTSB
South Bend Water Works
422 TIF DISTRICT WEST WASHINGTON
Reith -Riley Construction Co.,
3,285.00 Survey Tech Ignition Park
75.37 Legal Notice
1,762.50 Legal Service
881.50 Environmental
2,246.08 401 N Bendix Dr. Guard / 401 N Bendix Dr. / 2721 Kenwood Ave
605.00 Studebaker /Oliver
3,177.28 MW & SVP Install Preparation Ignition Park
1,774.02 Personnel Costs
125.00 701 South
525.00 Ivy Tower
250.00 Search /Exam Fee RC /Title
1,075.00 Commercial Appraisal
5,450.00 Appraisal Srvc 228 Sycamore / 112 St. Louis / 331 -410 W. Wayne
St.
4,600.00 Appraisal Srvc 228 Sycamore / 331 W. Wayne
550.00 Legal Services
20,265.00 Agreement for Services
127.35 701 E South St./514 Rush St.
96,060.25 Washington St. To LaSalle Ave.
426 FUND SOUTH BEND CENTRAL MEDICAL DISTRICT
DLZ
Gibson Lewis LLC
6,110.00 Engineering
122,661.15 Skyway Plaza Window Replacement
430 FUND SOUTH SIDE DEVELOPMENT TIF AREA #1
Lawson Fisher Associates
18,459.04
DLZ
13,240.00
1FNEW & Associates Inc.
1,257.70
DLZ
140.00
Reith -Riley Construction Co.
688,871.55
433 REDEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION GENERAL
Faegre Baker Daniels 3,271.65
Main St /Lafayette Blvd Connector from Ireland Rd to Chippewa
Rd
Fellows St
Fellows St
Ireland Rd
Main St /Lafayette Blvd Connector
2
South Bend Redevelopment Commission
Regular Meeting — Thursday, August 15, 2013
3. APPROVAL OF CLAIMS (CONT.)
Upon a motion by Mr. Varner, seconded by Mr. Schey and unanimously carried, the Commission
approved the Claims submitted Thursday, August 15, 2013.
4. COMMUNICATIONS
There were no Communications.
5. OLD BUSINESS
There was no Old Business.
6. NEW BUSINESS
A. South Bend Central Development Area
(1) Resolution No. 3153 designating and declaring an amendment to the Redevelopment
Plan for the South Bend Central Development Area.
Mr. Dressel noted that staff requests Redevelopment Commission approval of Declaratory
Resolution No. 3153, starting the process towards amendment of the South Bend Central
Development Area (SBCDA) Development Plan.
The primary purpose of these text amendments is to add language to an existing plan goal
and create a new objective that emphasizes the importance of adding and expanding the
range of downtown housing unit types within the SBCDA, particularly those that encourage
the provision of affordable housing and live -work space for artists. Artist districts often
serve as the catalyst for revitalization and are at the forefront of neighborhood development
within downtowns.
Additional amendments of lesser significance revise and modernize the plan
introduction/history (both were initially written almost thirty years ago) and add time frames
to existing plan objectives. Finally, minimal additions have been made to the plan goals and
objectives adding language supporting "complete streets" for cyclists and mass transit users.
The resolution does not include changes to the development area boundary.
As a reminder, the declaratory resolution is the first of a four step process that also includes
approval requests of the Area Plan Commission and Common Council. Staff expects to
approach the Commission a second time within the next month or two to conclude the
process by requesting approval of the confirming resolution.
Ms. Schey asked if the SBCDA Development Plan shouldn't also include the Howard Park
Neighborhood Plan. Mr. Dressel responded that it does. It is an attachment to the
development plan. The attachments to the Plan were not copied for the packet because
South Bend Redevelopment Commission
Regular Meeting — Thursday, August 15, 2013
6. NEW BUSINESS
A. South Bend Central Development Area
(1) continued...
there was no change being made to them. Mr. Dressel noted that the entire Development
Plan can be found on the City of South Bend's website.
Mr. Varner noted that it's all well and good to write a plan, but the reality is that
development of property will be based on the market. Mr. Ford responded that this
amendment expands the possibilities for development specifically because there is another
part of the market that we hope to tap. This adds more flexibility.
Mr. Bill Hollingsworth, Equal Development, noted that he is proposing to put the historic
Hoffman Hotel, which is most commonly known as the North Western Mutual Building,
into 45 -50 unit of affordable artist housing. The first floor will have a retail look, but will
contain the leasing office, maintenance office, a small gallery, a soundproof music room for
practicing, and a dark room. The 12`h floor has a wonderful view of both Notre Dame and
the river walk. He intends to make that a studio.
Mr. Downes asked if the billboard next to the hotel will be removed. Mr. Hollingsworth
responded that the billboard on the south side of the building will be removed, but the
billboard on the west side of the building has an historic, trendy look and will be kept. Mr.
Hollingsworth noted that he intends to put $4M - $6M into the project.
Mr. Wruble asked how this development will affect the LaSalle Hotel. Mr. Hollingsworth
responded that it should complement the hotel. Artist housing is often a catalyst for other
types of residential and will also drive retail to the LaSalle St. area.
Ms. Schey asked for a brief explanation of how "artist" will be defined. Mr. Hollingsworth
responded that in 2008 the United States President allowed, within fair housing, to have
restrictive housing to artists. An Artist is defined by broad categories such as culinary artists
to painters to photographers to anything that is an artistic endeavor. The limitations must be
defined upfront as a part of their leasing strategy to avoid fair housing issues.
Ms. Schey asked if there were certain income parameters as well. Mr. Hollingsworth
responded that residents living there will have to make less than 60% of the area median
income based on family size.
Mr. Wruble asked what the dollar amount of the 60% median is. Mr. Hollingsworth
responded that it changes every year; currently it is about $40,000 for a family of four.
Mr. Varner asked if Mr. Hollingsworth might consider an agreement with the Morris
Performing Arts Center for a certain number of rooms on ND football weekends because the
Morris isn't able to book certain events those weekends because of the lack of hotel space.
South Bend Redevelopment Commission
Regular Meeting — Thursday, August 15, 2013
6. NEW BUSINESS
A. South Bend Central Development Area
(1) continued...
Mr. Hollingsworth responded that he would consider that except for the restrictions of the
program requiring a 1 -year lease and the income restrictions.
Upon a motion by Ms. Schey, seconded by Mr. Downes and unanimously carried, the
Commission approved Resolution No. 3153 designating and declaring an amendment to the
Development Plan for the South Bend Central Development Area which includes adding
and expanding the range of Downtown Housing and types to include specific groups, to
revise and modernize the plan which was written 30 years ago, add some time frames and to
incorporate the recent discussion about complete streets.
(2) Resolution No. 3154 approving and authorizing the execution of an Addendum to the
Master Agency Agreement (Hill & Colfax Drainage Improvements Project)
Mr. Dressel noted that staff approached the Commission in June to present plans for
development of the Commission -owned property on the northwest corner of Hill Street and
Colfax Avenue as a mixed use building planned by Colfax Hill Partners, LLC. Prior to
development, there's a need to address site drainage.
The proposed project consists of eliminating an existing detention basin and drywell system
on the site and providing a new detention storage facility, while maintaining the current
outlet rate to the City drainage system. It is likely that the drywell structures in the adjacent
parking lot are also connected to this detention basin. Abonmarche has submitted a written
proposal to provide the following scope of services:
• Performing a field survey /conducting utility locates
• Preliminary engineering including providing a storage location and method options
• Preparing construction documents and complete bid package
• Providing bid period services including recommendation for contract award
The proposed work plan calls for completion of services above within 5 weeks; start of the
City of South Bend bid process in mid - September; and project construction commencing by
mid - October. Staff requests approval of Resolution No. 3145 and Addendum to the Master
Agency Agreement, in a not -to- exceed amount of $8,200.
Mr. Downes asked if there is an estimate of the cost to relocate the drainage system. Mr.
Ford hesitated to put a hard number out there, but did not think it would be a large number.
Mr. Varner asked that if it is possible after the assessment if the detention base will be
adequate or not. Mr. Mecham responded that it is adequate and works very well. This
South Bend Redevelopment Commission
Regular Meeting — Thursday, August 15, 2013
6. NEW BUSINESS
A. South Bend Central Development Area
(2) continued...
advantage is that it takes a little piece of real estate that is valuable to that development. The
idea is to either remove it or something else that provides the same function somewhere else.
Upon a motion by Mr. Downes, seconded by Ms. Schey and unanimously carried, the
Commission approved Resolution No. 3154 approving and authorizing the execution of an
Addendum to the Master Agency Agreement (Hill & Colfax Drainage Improvements
Project).
(3) Resolution No. 3149 approving the fair market value of property in the South Bend
Central Development Area. (112 S. St. Louis St.)
Mr. Relos noted that Resolution No. 3149 sets the fair market value for 112 S. St. Louis St.,
within the South Bend Central Development Area. The proposed fair market value of the
property, as derived by two independent MAI appraisals, is $4,200. Staff requests approval
of Resolution No. 3149.
Upon a motion by Mr. Downes, seconded by Mr. Varner and unanimously carried, the
Commission approved Resolution No. 3149 approving the fair market value of property in
the South Bend Central Development Area. (112 S. St. Louis St.)
(4) Bid Specifications and Design Considerations for property in the South Bend Central
Development Area. (112 S. St. Louis St.)
Mr. Relos noted that the Bid Specifications and Design Considerations are for the
disposition of 112 S. St. Louis. The Bid Specifications outline the uses and development
requirements that will be required for this site, which include:
• All offers must meet the minimum price listed on the Offering Sheet
• All proposals must conform to the existing zoning provisions set forth for the CBD
as outlined in the South Bend Zoning Ordinance.
• All proposals must include the basic reuse plan for the site and a project timeline
detailing aspects of the site redevelopment and sited improvements. Emphasis will
be placed on compatibility with the goals and objectives of the East Bank
Redevelopment Area as well as the Development Plan for the South Bend Central
Development Area.
• Bidders are prohibited from using the property for speculation or landholding
purposes.
South Bend Redevelopment Commission
Regular Meeting — Thursday, August 15, 2013
6. NEW BUSINESS
A. South Bend Central Development Area
(4) continued...
Mr. Varner asked if the Bid Specifications and Design Considerations are certifying that this
property is zoned appropriately or recognizing what the zoning is. Mr. Relos responded that
they recognize what the zoning is.
Upon a motion by Mr. Downes, seconded by Ms. Schey and unanimously carried, the
Commission approved Bid Specifications and Design Considerations for property in the
South Bend Central Development Area. (112 S. St. Louis St.)
(5) Authorization to publish the Notice on Intended Disposition of Property with
publication dates of August 23, 2013 and August 30, 2013 and Receipt of Bids at 9:00
a.m. on September 12, 2013. (112 S. St. Louis St.)
Mr. Relos noted that the Notice of Intended Disposition of Property for 112 S. St. Louis, in
the South Bend Central Development Area will be advertised in both the South Bend
Tribune and the Tri- County News on August 23, 2013 and August 30, 2013. Staff requests
authorization to publish this notice.
Upon a motion by Mr. Downes, seconded by Mr. Varner and unanimously carried, the
Commission authorized publication of the Notice on Intended Disposition of Property with
publication dates of August 23, 2013 and August 30, 2013 with Receipt of Bids at 9:00 a.m.
on September 13, 2013. (112 S. St. Louis St.)
(6) Resolution No. 3150 approving the fair market value of property in the South Bend
Central Development Area. (228 Sycamore St.)
Mr. Relos noted that Resolution No. 3150 sets the fair market value for 228 Sycamore St.,
within the South Bend Central Development Area at $33,500, that number being derived by
averaging two independent MAI appraisals. Staff requests approval of Resolution No. 3150.
Upon a motion by Mr. Downes, seconded by Mr. Varner and unanimously carried, the
Commission approved Resolution No. 3150 approving the fair market value of property in
the South Bend Central Development Area. (228 Sycamore St.)
(7) Bid Specifications and Design Considerations for property in the South Bend Central
Development Area. (228 Sycamore St.)
Mr. Relos noted that the Bid Specifications and Design Considerations are for the
disposition of 228 Sycamore St. The Bid Specifications outline the uses and development
requirements that will be required for this site.
South Bend Redevelopment Commission
Regular Meeting — Thursday, August 15, 2013
6. NEW BUSINESS
A. South Bend Central Development Area
(7) continued...
• All offers must meet the minimum price listed on the Offering Sheet
• All proposals must conform to the existing zoning provisions set forth for the CBD
as outlined in the South Bend Zoning Ordinance.
• All proposals must include the basic reuse plan for the site and a project timeline
detailing aspects of the site redevelopment and sited improvements. Emphasis will
be placed on compatibility with the goals and objectives of the East Bank
Redevelopment Area as well as the Development Plan for the South Bend Central
Development Area.
• Bidders are prohibited from using the property for speculation or landholding
purposes.
Upon a motion by Mr. Downes, seconded by Ms. Schey and unanimously carried, the
Commission approved Bid Specifications and Design Considerations for property in the
South Bend Central Development Area. (228 Sycamore St.)
(8) Authorization to publish the Notice of Intended Disposition of Property with
publication dates of August 23, 2013 and August 30, 2013 and Receipt of Bids at 9:00
a.m. on September 12, 2013. (228 Sycamore St.)
Mr. Relos noted that the Notice of Intended Disposition of Property (Notice) for 228
Sycamore St., in the South Bend Central Development Area will be advertised in both the
South Bend Tribune and the Tri- County News on August 23, 2013 and August 30, 2013.
Staff requests authorization to publish this notice.
Upon a motion by Mr. Downes, seconded by Mr. Varner and unanimously carried, the
Commission authorized publication of the Notice of Intended Disposition of Property with
publication dates of August 23, 2013 and August 30, 2013 with Receipt of Bids at 9:00 a.m.
on September 13, 2013. (228 Sycamore St.)
(9) Resolution No. 3151 approving the fair market value of property in the South Bend
Central Development Area. (331 -410 W. Wayne St.)
Mr. Relos noted that Resolution No. 3151 sets the fair market value for 331 -410 W. Wayne
St., within the South Bend Central Development Area at $227,500 or $4.88 per sq ft., if
leased. The fair market value of the property was established as an average of two
independent MAI appraisals. Staff requests the approval of Resolution No. 3151.
Upon a motion by Mr. Downes, seconded by Mr. Varner and unanimously carried, the
Commission approved Resolution No. 3151 approving the fair market value of property in
the South Bend Central Development Area. (331 -410 W. Wayne St.)
South Bend Redevelopment Commission
Regular Meeting — Thursday, August 15, 2013
6. NEW BUSINESS
A. South Bend Central Development Area
(10) Bid Specifications and Design Considerations for property in the South Bend Central
Development Area. (331410 W. Wayne St.)
Mr. Reins noted that the Bid Specifications and Design Considerations are for the
disposition of 331 -410 W. Wayne St. The Bid Specifications outline the uses and
development requirements that will be required for this site.
• All offers must meet the minimum price listed on the Offering Sheet
• All proposals must conform to the existing zoning provisions set forth for the GB
zoning designation as outlined in the South Bend Zoning Ordinance.
• All proposals must include the basic reuse plan for the site and a project timeline
detailing aspects of the site redevelopment and sited improvements. Emphasis will
be placed on compatibility with the goals and objectives of the Coveleski
Redevelopment Area as well as the Development Plan for the South Bend Central
Development Area.
• Bidders are prohibited from using the property for speculation or landholding
purposes.
Upon a motion by Mr. Downes, seconded by Mr. Schey and unanimously carried, the
Commission approved Bid Specifications and Design Considerations for property in the
South Bend Central Development Area. (331 -410 W. Wayne St.)
(11) Authorization to publish the Notice of Intended Disposition of Property with
publication dates of August 23, 2013 and August 30, 2013 and Receipt of Bids at 9:00
a.m. on September 12, 2013. (331 -410 W. Wayne St.)
Mr. Relos noted that the Notice of Intended Disposition of Property (Notice) is for 331 -410
W. Wayne St., in the South Bend Central Development Area will be advertised in both the
South Bend Tribune and the Tri- County News on August 23, 2013 and August 30, 2013.
Staff requests approval of this Notice and the Request to Advertise, for the eventual
disposition of this property.
Upon a motion by Mr. Downes, seconded by Mr. Varner and unanimously carried, the
Commission authorized publication of the Notice of Intended Disposition of Property with
publication dates of August 23, 2013 and August 30, 2013 with Receipt of Bids at 9:00 a.m.
on September 13, 2013. (331 -410 W. Wayne St.)
(12) Contract for Land Sale of Land for Monroe Park properties.
Mr. Relos noted that over the past two years, 15 properties that once were leased through the
Housing Development Corporation (HDC), and owned by the Redevelopment Authority,
have been transferred from the Authority to the Commission. This transfer occurred because
South Bend Redevelopment Commission
Regular Meeting — Thursday, August 15, 2013
6. NEW BUSINESS
A. South Bend Central Development Area
(12) continued...
HDC is no longer in operation, and to facilitate the disposition of these twelve houses and
three vacant lots.
Houses that were unoccupied when HDC ceased operation have remained unoccupied. All
were appraised in 2011. Since the 2011 appraisals, some have been broken into and
vandalized, have developed leaking roofs and, overall, have larger deferred maintenance
issues.
For disposition purposes, these 15 properties were split into two groups. The first group
consisted of five houses, with the last being sold this past May. These five houses had an
average appraised value of $20,400 and an average sales price of $7,040. All five houses
were listed with a Realtor and received little to no interest.
The remaining seven houses have an average appraised value of $25,250. Two parties
expressed interest in these seven houses and three vacant lots, one offering $25,000, with
Mr. Berger's offer of $50,400 being the second. Mr. Berger's offer equates to an average of
$7,200 per house.
Mr. Berger is a 40 -year resident of South Bend, has experience in the construction industry
and working with at -risk populations, assisting individuals to obtain employment and
housing opportunities. Upon taking possession of these properties, Mr. Berger will have a
person living on site providing maintenance and security services.
Since the sale of these properties to a private investor will place them back on the tax rolls,
provides for a minimum $80,000 investment into them, and has received the support of the
Monroe Park Neighborhood Association, staff requests approval of this Contract for Sale.
Ms. Schey asked if the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) is owned by the City of
South Bend. Mr. Inks responded that the Housing Development Corporation was an
independent non -profit organization, which was sponsored by the city.
Ms. Schey asked if these properties were acquired through federal grants owners. Mr. Inks
responded that in this case no. These properties were acquired through bond proceeds since
they were owned by the Redevelopment Authority which is their only source of income. The
properties were then leased to the HDC for use in their low income housing program. Over
the years, federal money went into these properties to maintain them.
Upon a motion by Mr. Downes, seconded by Mr. Varner and unanimously carved, the
Commission approved the Contract for Land Sale of Land for Monroe Park properties.
10
South Bend Redevelopment Commission
Regular Meeting — Thursday, August 15, 2013
6. NEW BUSINESS
B. Airport Economic Development Area
(1) Proposal for survey services (Subdivision of SW corner Sheridan and Voorde)
Mr. Relos noted that staff solicited a professional services proposal from Danch, Hamer &
Associates to provide subdivision services for the southwest comer of Sheridan & Voorde.
This lot is currently owned by the Airport Authority and contains a city -used retention basin
on its southern half.
Because this retention basin is used by the City for surrounding drainage, it should be owned
and operated by the Board of Public Works (BPW). Upon completion of this lot being
replatted, the Airport Authority will deed the basin to the BPW. The northern portion will
then be available for sale as a buildable site, which does have an interested party.
This proposal will provide survey and replat services to prepare a One Lot/ One Outlot
Subdivision Replat for this parcel by splitting off the non - buildable section (retention basin)
from the buildable portion.
The cost for the preparation of the Subdivision Replat, all required paper work, setting of
property corners, attendance at required Plat Committee meetings, filing and recording fees
is $3,650. The Airport Authority has agreed to pay half this cost, leaving the Commission's
cost at $1,825. Staff requests approval of the proposal.
Upon a motion by Ms. Schey, seconded by Mr. Downes and unanimously carried, the
Commission approved the Proposal for survey services (Subdivision of SW comer Sheridan
and Voorde)
C. West Washington - Chapin Development Area
There was no business in the West Washington- Chapin Development Area.
D. South Side Development Area
(1) Resolution No. 3152 approving and authorizing the execution of an Addendum to the
Master Agency Agreement (Bowen St. Sidewalk Project)
Mr. Relos noted that Resolution No. 3152 approves an Agency Agreement for a Professional
Services Agreement with DLZ for Right of Way (ROW) Engineering, Staking, and
Acquisition Services to complete the installation of a sidewalk along the south side of
Bowen Street from Miami, west into the Erskine Plaza Shopping Center in the South Side
Development Area.
In recent years, an effort has been made to upgrade and connect the sidewalk system in the
south side shopping district. As this area has grown, certain areas have had sidewalks
11
South Bend Redevelopment Commission
Regular Meeting — Thursday, August 15, 2013
6. NEW BUSINESS
D. South Side Development Area
(1) continued...
installed while other areas have not.
The Commission has approved Engineering and ROW acquisition services for intersection
improvements at High and Ireland, which includes the construction of a section of sidewalk
going east and connecting to the current sidewalk that eventually connects to the intersection
of Ireland and Miami.
The Commission has also approved Engineering and ROW acquisition services for the
construction of sidewalk along the east side of Miami north of Ireland. This, too, will
connect existing sidewalks in this area.
In preparation to bid these three projects as one package this spring, the services provided in
this agreement will allow the acquisition of the ROW needed along Bowen Street, provide
necessary legal descriptions, plat work, and surveys.
Staff requests approval of Resolution No. 3152 and Addendum to the Master Agency
Agreement in a not -to- exceed amount of $34,280.
Ms. Jones noted that this issue has been discussed at length several years ago and some
acquisitions were made because this is an area with high pedestrian traffic.
Mr. Relos noted that former Commissioner Nancy King requested this sidewalk because she
used to live in that area noticed the danger of pedestrians walking in the street and drives.
Upon a motion by Mr. Varner, seconded by Mr. Downes and unanimously carried, the
Commission approved Resolution No. 3152 approving and authorizing the execution of an
Addendum to the Master Agency Agreement (Bowen St. Sidewalk Project)
E. Northeast Neighborhood Development Area
There was no business in the Northeast Neighborhood Development Area.
F. Douglas Road Development Area
There was no business in the Douglas Road Development Area.
12
South Bend Redevelopment Commission
Regular Meeting — Thursday, August 15, 2013
6. NEW BUSINESS (CONT.)
G. Ratification of Services Contracts
Mr. Downes made a motion to ratify the services contracts and purchase agreement listed above.
Ms. Schey asked for a brief update on the 1509 Kendall acquisition. Mr. Relos responded that
the mortgage on the property is "upside down." The Redevelopment Commission approved the
short sale agreement in May 2013. Since then, staff has had to rewrite the purchase agreement
paperwork for the short sale by changing the date (due to being past the closing date) and
removing the "S." on the address which read, "1509 S. Kendall." The mortgage company's
paperwork reads "1509 Kendall."
Ms. Schey said that she expected there to be some additional discussion regarding this property.
If the Commission approves the purchase agreement as requested today, what would be the
impact of that? Mr. Relos responded that there won't be any impact. Staff already has two signed
contracts with the owners.
Ms. Schey asked if the signed contracts are for the agreed upon amount. Mr. Relos responded
that they are. The Commission approved the first dollar amount November 2011; then staff had
the purchase agreement signed by the owners in May 2012.
13
Commission
Role in
Transaction
Contractor
Service
Provided
Contract
Amount
Staff
Member
4627 Miami
Acquisition
Meridian Title
Title work
$150
Relos
4711 Miami
Acquisition
Meridian Title
Title work
$100
Relos
Hill and Colfax lot
Disposition
Meridian Title
Title work
300
Kain
228 Sycamore
Dis osition
WaszakAppraisals
Appraisal
$1,700
Relos
228 Sycamore
Dis osition
R.E. Pitts
Appraisal
$1,650
Relos
331 W. Wayne
Disposition
I Waszak Appraisals
Appraisal
1 $2,900
Relos
331 -410 W. Wayne
Gates Auto Service
Disposition
R.E. Pitts
Appraisal
$2,350
Relos
112 S. St. Louis
Disposition
Jerome E.
Michaels
Appraisal
$1,075
Relos
112 S. St. Louis
Disposition
R.E. Pitts
Appraisal
$1,450
Relos
112 S. St. Louis
Disposition
Meridian Title
Title work
$150
Jennings
331 -410 W. Wayne
Gates Auto Service
Disposition
Meridian Title
Title work
$200
Jennings
228 Sycamore
Dis osition
Meridian Title
Title work
$100
Jennings
1509 Kendall
Acquisition
Changes to
Purchase
A Bement
Relos
Mr. Downes made a motion to ratify the services contracts and purchase agreement listed above.
Ms. Schey asked for a brief update on the 1509 Kendall acquisition. Mr. Relos responded that
the mortgage on the property is "upside down." The Redevelopment Commission approved the
short sale agreement in May 2013. Since then, staff has had to rewrite the purchase agreement
paperwork for the short sale by changing the date (due to being past the closing date) and
removing the "S." on the address which read, "1509 S. Kendall." The mortgage company's
paperwork reads "1509 Kendall."
Ms. Schey said that she expected there to be some additional discussion regarding this property.
If the Commission approves the purchase agreement as requested today, what would be the
impact of that? Mr. Relos responded that there won't be any impact. Staff already has two signed
contracts with the owners.
Ms. Schey asked if the signed contracts are for the agreed upon amount. Mr. Relos responded
that they are. The Commission approved the first dollar amount November 2011; then staff had
the purchase agreement signed by the owners in May 2012.
13
South Bend Redevelopment Commission
Regular Meeting — Thursday, August 15, 2013
6. NEW BUSINESS (CONT.)
G. Ratification of Services Contracts
Ms. Schey asked if the Commission would table ratification of 1509 Kendall until its next
meeting, will this have any detrimental effects to the negotiations. Mr. Meteiver responded that
the mortgage company has been difficult to work with from the beginning of this acquisition. A
delay at this point might cause them to put this on the back burner. If the Commission defers this
contract to the next Redevelopment Commission meeting, we will be getting close to the final
deadline again which could create additional problems. If anything, these changes will facilitate
the acquisition of the property rather than delay it. He recommended not tabling the item.
Ms. Schey asked to table the ratification of this address due to the family (owner) filing a
complaint with the Council. There are some issues that still need to be addressed. She clarified
that we will be up against the deadline, but will not be past it if we table? Mr. Meteiver
responded that that would depend on how quickly the bank could turn things around again. If we
defer action here, that may be a signal that the bank can defer action from their end and we will
be late for the purchase agreement's deadline.
As a courtesy to the family who did come before Council on Monday, Ms. Schey asked that the
item be tabled until the next meeting.
Mr. Meteiver asked what the family's concerns are. Ms. Schey responded that they have a
number of concerns.
Mr. Relos noted that staff could hear at any moment that with these changes to the agreement,
the agreement has been approved. This acquisition should have been closed some time ago. The
mortgage processor has been very difficult, and actually, the family has an attorney that Mr.
Relos is working through who is working with the mortgage processor.
Mr. Downes asked if the Council has any authority over this transaction. Mr. Relos responded
that it does not. The authority falls to the Commission and it's been approved by the
Redevelopment Commission previously.
Ms. Schey noted that as a member of the Council that answers to the people of South Bend, there
is a responsibility when citizens come before us. Regardless of one's opinion whether TIF
dollars are, in fact, the money of the tax payers the money that is spent is public money. The
residents have asked for further clarification on this matter. Therefore, Ms. Schey asked again
that ratification of the purchase agreement for 1509 Kendall be tabled until the next Commission
meeting.
Mr. Varner clarified that the Commission essentially had no contract after the purchase
agreement expired. Mr. Meteiver responded that either party to a contract can terminate the
contract based on the closing not taking place within 30 days. Neither party took that step, so we
still have a valid contract.
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South Bend Redevelopment Commission
Regular Meeting — Thursday, August 15, 2013
6. NEW BUSINESS (CONT.)
G. Ratification of Services Contracts
Mr. Inks asked for clarification of the issue. Does the owner no longer want to sell, or are they
asking for a larger price? Mr. Relos responded that the owner is asking for more money. Ms.
Schey responded that the property next to them (1505 Kendall, which is a business) was sold to
the Redevelopment Commission for $350,000. The Commission in November 2011 offered
$59,100 for the home next to that business.
Mr. Varner noted that this is one of those things that, once it's done, will haunt anybody that is
involved unless the whole story is put out there for anyone who's interested to understand. He's
asked Dave "have you got the worksheets, have you got the explanation, have you justification
for the price that the owners of 1509 S. Kendall agreed to ?" He doesn't mind delaying the vote
on this if people can get their questions answered.
Mr. Relos noted that the family does know how the purchase price was arrived at. From staff
research back on 2011, the mortgage was two years past due and is probably further past due
now. There are delinquent taxes and at least $12,000 in liens from the various children who have
inherited the property. The Commission is already going well over the appraised value to pay
those things off.
Mr. Downes did not like the precedent that would be set by reconsidering the price for this
property: if you make an agreement with the Redevelopment Commission, then you decide
because of some later, related deal that you didn't get a good enough deal, then you are going to
go to the Common Council who had no authority over the transaction and complain about it. If
they wanted to appeal the deal, they should have come to the Redevelopment Commission.
Ms. Schey pointed out that many members of the public don't understand the difference between
the elected and appointed bodies and what those bodies are charged with. She believes it is the
responsibility of the members of those bodies to work with the residents to help clarify those
roles.
Mr. Relos noted that ratifying these purchase agreement changes doesn't stop any of that from
happening. The changes are so the mortgage processor can decide whether they are going to
accept the short sale paperwork or not. They might come back and say that, after all, they don't
want to accept the short sale paperwork. Then we would be back at square one.
Ms. Schey asked when the purchase agreement needs to be signed. Mr. Meteiver responded that
this is a ratification of action already taken. The family is represented by a lawyer and should be
able to get most of their questions answered by the lawyer rather than running to the Common
Council in an attempt to circumvent the Commission's process.
Mr. Relos noted that he has received no word from the family or their lawyer about any
displeasure.
15
South Bend Redevelopment Commission
Regular Meeting — Thursday, August 15, 2013
6. NEW BUSINESS (CONT.)
G. Ratification of Services Contracts
Ms. Schey made a motion to table ratification of the purchase agreement for 1509 Kendall and to
ratify the remainder of the service contracts. Mr. Vamer seconded. The motion failed on a vote
of two to three. Ms. Jones, Mr. Downes, and Mr. Inks were opposed.
Mr. Downes made a motion to ratify the Services Contracts and the Purchase Agreement for
1509 Kendall which were approved by staff since the July 25, 2013 meeting. Mr. Inks seconded.
The motion carried on a vote of four to two. Mr. Varner and Ms. Schey were opposed.
7. PROGRESS REPORTS
A. Update on the RFP process for corridors on Lincolnway West and Western
Mr. Divita noted that on behalf of the Redevelopment Commission the city has issued a Request
for Proposals for a contractor to prepare a market based strategic revitalization plan for the
Lincolnway West and Western corridors. The plan would address activities and market changes
since the last plans for the corridors were completed in 1999. The effort would support the
economic vitality by making our streets work for us. The current and projected market conditions
will be analyzed to help identify priority areas and activities for private and public investment.
We would expect the plan to include business development, land use, design, and streetscape
elements. The RFP itself was issued last Friday, August 9, 2013, with proposals due back by
September 13, 2013. The RFP has been made widely available, including on the City's website.
To advance the planning process the Commission will be asked to award the consultant a
contract. Tentatively that would happen in October. The South Bend Urban Enterprise
Association (UEA) has graciously agreed to provide funding of up to $150,000 toward cost of
the plan development. TIF might be used to supplement those funds, but because only a portion
of the corridors fall within the existing TIF boundaries, only a minority of the cost of the plan
development would be borne through TIF funding. At an upcoming meeting, staff will present a
contract between the Redevelopment Commission and UEA for that funding with the specific
terms to be worked out between now and then.
Mr. Downes asked if the RFP asks for two separate plans for the two corridors or is it one plan
covering both corridors. Mr. Divita responded that it will be one plan covering two corridors.
8. NEXT COMMISSION MEETING
The Next Regular Meeting of the Redevelopment Commission is scheduled for Thursday,
August 29, 2013 at 9:30 a.m.
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South Bend Redevelopment Commission
Regular Meeting — Thursday, August 15, 2013
9. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Redevelopment Commission, the meeting was
adjourned at 10:29 a.m.
1 kord, DirectW
17
Marcia I. Jones, 6Wident