HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-12-08 Common Council Minutes
REGULAR MEETING MAY 12, 2008
Be it remembered that the Common Council of the City of South Bend, Indiana met in
the Council Chambers of the County-City Building on Monday, May 12, 2008 at 7:00
p.m. The meeting was called to order by Council President Rouse and the Invocation and
Pledge to the Flag were given.
ROLL CALL
COUNCILMEMBERS:
Present: Derek D. Dieter 1st District, Chairperson Committee of the Whole
Henry Davis, Jr. 2nd District
Thomas LaFountain 3rd District
Ann Puzzello 4th District
David Varner 5th District
Oliver Davis 6th District Vice-President
Al “Buddy” Kirsits At-Large
Timothy Rouse At-Large President
Karen L. White At-Large
OTHERS PRESENT:
John Voorde City Clerk
Mary Beth Wisniewski Chief Deputy
Janice I. Talboom Deputy City Clerk
Kathleen Cekanski-Farrand Council Attorney
REPORT FROM THE SUB-COMMITTEE ON MINUTES
To the Common Council of the City of South Bend: The sub-committee has inspected
the minutes of the April 28, 2008, meetings of the Council and found them to be correct.
Therefore, we recommend the same be approved.
s/Timothy A. Rouse
s/David Varner
Councilmember Henry Davis made a motion that the minutes of the April 28, 2008
meetings of the Council be accepted and placed on file. Councilmember Oliver Davis
seconded the motion which carried by a voice vote of nine (9) ayes.
SPECIAL BUSINESS
Council President Rouse announced that in observance of the Memorial Day Holiday, the
next meeting of the South Bend Common Council will be Tuesday, May 27, 2008 at 7:00
th
p.m. in the Council Chambers, 4 Floor County-City Building, 227 W. Jefferson Blvd.,
South Bend, Indiana, 46601.
Council President Rouse announced that the Council has reappointed Marcia Jones to the
Redevelopment Commission.
Council President Rouse announced that Councilmember Derek D. Dieter will be the
Council’s representative to the Century Center Board of Managers and Councilmember
Puzzello will be the representative to the Morris Performing Arts Board.
RESOLVE INTO THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
At 7:02 p.m. Councilmember White made a motion to resolve into the Committee of the
Whole. Councilmember Varner seconded the motion which carried by a voice vote of
nine (9) ayes. Councilmember Dieter, Chairperson, Committee of the Whole, presiding.
1
REGULAR MEETING MAY 12, 2008
Councilmember Dieter explained the procedures to be followed for tonight’s meeting in
accordance with Article 1, Section 2-11 of the South Bend Municipal Code.
Councilmember Dieter stated that a brochure may be found on the railing in the Council
Chambers explaining those procedures.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
BILL NO. 14-08 PUBLIC HEARING ON A BILL AMENDING
THE ZONING ORDINANCE FOR FIVE (5)
PROPERTIES LOCATED AT THE SOUTHEAST
CORNER OF WESTERN AVENUE AND
LOMBARDY DRIVE LYING IMMEDIATELY
SOUTH OF THE INTERSECTION AND
IMMEDIATELY NORTH OF 450 LOMBARDY
DRIVE, COUNCILMANIC DISTRICT 6 IN THE
CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA
Councilmember Kirsits, Chairperson, Zoning & Annexation Committee, reported that
this Committee met this afternoon and it was the consensus of the Committee to send this
bill to the full Council with a favorable recommendation.
th
Mr. Mark Lyons, Staff Member, Area Plan Commission, 11 Floor County-City
Building, South Bend, Indiana, presented the report from the Area Plan Commission.
Mr. Lyons advised that the petitioners are requesting a zone change from MF1 Urban
Corridor Multifamily District, LB Local Business District, and CB Community Business
District to CB Community Business District to allow the construction of a drug store.
The site is currently comprised of five parcels: one zoned CB Community Business
District, one zoned MF1 Urban Corridor Multifamily District, and 3 zoned LB Local
Business District. To the North across Western Avenue are businesses zoned CB
Community Business District. To the east are apartments zoned MF1 Urban Corridor
Multifamily District. To the south is a vacant lot with an access easement zoned MF1
Urban Corridor Multifamily District. South of that are homes zoned SF1 Single Family
and Two Family District. To the west are businesses zoned CB Community Business
District. Mr. Lyons stated that the site is approximately 1 acre. The site plan indicates a
proposed 13,600 square foot building. The building will cover approximately 29% of the
site. 45 parking spaces are provided for the development. Parking and drives will consist
of approximately 60% of the site. The remaining 11% of the site will be open space.
There are three proposed access points to the development; two off of Lombardy Drive
and one off of Western Avenue. The site will require 11 variances to comply with the
City of South Bend Zoning Ordinance. The site will be serviced by municipal utilities.
Mr. Lyons advised that this bill is sent to the Common Council with a favorable
recommendation. The site was previously occupied by several businesses and is located
within a commercial area. The rezoning will redevelop what has become a series of
underutilized commercial parcels. The rezoning fits well with the existing commercial
uses to the north and west of the site.
Mr. Jason Ward, Sanders, Pianowski, LLP, 300 Riverwalk Drive, Elkhart, Indiana and
Mr. Adam Keyser, Preferred-South Bend LLC, 141 W. Jackson Blvd, Suite 3540,
Chicago, IL made the presentation for this bill.
Mr. Ward advised that the petitioner Preferred-South Bend LLC, is requesting a zone
change from CB Community Business District, MF1 Multifamily Urban Corridor and LB
Local Business District to CB Community Business District to allow for the
development, construction and maintenance of a Walgreens Drug Store at the proposed
location.
2
REGULAR MEETING MAY 12, 2008
This being the time heretofore set for the Public Hearing on the above bill, proponents
and opponents were given an opportunity to be heard.
There being no one present wishing to speak to the Council either in favor of or in
opposition to this bill, Councilmember White made a motion for favorable
recommendation to full Council concerning this bill. Councilmember Oliver Davis
seconded the motion which carried by a voice vote of nine (9) ayes.
th
Councilmember Oliver Davis welcomed the development into the 6 District and looks
forward to working with them in the future.
BILL NO. 20-08 PUBLIC HEARING TO VACATE THE
FOLLOWING DESCRIBED PROPERTY: THE
FIRST ALLEY TO BE VACATED IS THE FIRST
EAST/WEST ALLEY SOUTH OF GOLDEN
AVENUE FROM WOODWARD AVENUE TO
THE FIRST NORTH/SOUTH ALLEY FRO A
DISTANCE OF 120 FEET AND A WIDTH OF 14
FEET. THE SECOND ALLEY TO BE VACATED
IS THE FIRST EAST/WEST ALLEY SOUTH OF
GOLDEN AVENUE FROM RIVERSIDE DRIVE
TO THE FIRST NORTH/SOUTH ALLEY FOR A
DISTANCE OF 120 FEET AND A WIDTH OF 14
FEET
Councilmember Varner made a motion to continue this bill until the May 27, 2008
meeting of the Council. Councilmember Rouse seconded the motion which carried by a
roll call vote of nine (9) ayes.
BILL NO. 22-08 PUBLIC HEARING ON A BILL OF THE
COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH
BEND, INDIANA, AUTHORIZING
PREAPPROVED PAYMENT OF CLAIMS
Councilmember LaFountain, Chairperson, Personnel & Finance Committee, reported that
this committee held a Public Hearing on this bill this afternoon and sends it to the full
Council with a favorable recommendation.
th
M. Catherine Fanello, City Controller, 12 Floor County-City Building, 227 W. Jefferson
Blvd., South Bend, Indiana, made the presentation for this bill.
Ms. Fanello advised that this bill would allow certain types of claims to be paid prior to
approval by the Board of Public Works. Expenditures of city funds are generally
approved by the Board of Public Works (“Board”) at its regular meetings, including
approval of claims such as payroll, insurance, utilities, rental agreements, bond payments,
and taxes. She noted that since the Board does not meet daily, the attached ordinance
will allow certain types of expenditures to be paid prior to Board approval.
This being the time heretofore set for the Public Hearing on the above bill, proponents
and opponents were given an opportunity to be heard.
There being no one present wishing to speak to the Council either in favor of or in
opposition to this bill, Councilmember Varner made a motion for favorable
recommendation to full Council concerning this bill. Councilmember Puzzello seconded
the motion which carried by a voice vote of nine (9) ayes.
3
REGULAR MEETING MAY 12, 2008
Councilmember Varner stated that this bill is only an interim measure and that this bill
will be amended at a later date.
RISE AND REPORT
Councilmember Oliver Davis made a motion to rise and report to the full Council.
Councilmember White seconded the motion which carried by a voice vote of nine (9)
ayes.
ATTEST: ATTEST:
_________________________ _________________________
John Voorde, City Clerk Derek D. Dieter, Chairperson
Committee of the Whole
REGULAR MEETING RECONVENED
Be it remembered that the Common Council of the City of South Bend reconvened in the
Council Chambers on the fourth floor of the County-City Building at 7:15 p.m. President
Timothy Rouse presided with nine (9) members present.
BILLS – THIRD READING
ORDINANCE NO. 9835-08 AN ORDINANCE OF THE COMMON COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA,
ANNEXING TO AND BRINGING WITH THE
CITY LIMITS OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA,
AND AMENDING THE ZONING ORDINANCE
FOR CERTAIN LAND IN GERMAN TOWNSHIP
CONTIGUOUS THEREWITH; COUNCILMANIC
DISTRICT #1, STEVE & JEAN COOREMAN,
21300 BLOCK OF CLEVELAND ROAD & 52804
LYNNEWOOD AVENUE, SOUTH BEND,
INDIANA
This bill had third reading. Councilmember Puzzello made a motion to pass this bill,
subject to the written commitments as on file with the Office of the City Clerk.
Councilmember Dieter seconded the motion which carried. The bill passed by a roll call
vote of eight (8) ayes and one (1) nay (Councilmember Henry Davis)
.
ORDINANCE NO. 9836-05 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING
ORDINANCE FOR FIVE (5) PROPERTIES
LOCATED AT THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF
WESTERN AVENUE AND LOMBARDY DRIVE
LYING IMMEDIATELY SOUTH OF THE
INTERSECTION AND IMMEDIATELY NORTH
OF 450 LOMBARDY DRIVE, COUNCILMANIC
DISTRICT 6 IN THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND,
INDIANA
4
REGULAR MEETING MAY 12, 2008
This bill had third reading. Councilmember Dieter made a motion to pass this bill.
Councilmember White seconded the motion which carried. The bill passed by a roll call
vote of nine (9) ayes.
ORDINANCE NO. 9837-08 AN ORDINANCE OF THE COMMON COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA,
AUTHORIZING PREAPPROVED PAYMENT OF
CLAIMS
This bill had third reading. Councilmember Dieter made a motion to pass this bill.
Councilmember LaFountain seconded the motion which carried. The bill passed by a roll
call vote of nine (9) ayes.
RESOLUTIONS
RESOLUTION NO. 3862-08 A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE
ADOPTION OF A DECLARATORY
RESOLUTION DESIGNATING CERTAIN
AREAS WITHIN THE CITY OF SOUTH
BEND, INDIANA, COMMONLY
KNOWN AS 2107 BASIN STREET OR
5421 ROYAL STREET, 5413 AND 5405
ROYAL STREET, 2205, 2213, 2221, 2229,
2237, 2245, 2303, 2311, 2314, 2306, 2236,
2228, 2220, 2212 ST. CHARLES STREET,
2204 ST. CHARLES STREET OR 5422
ROYAL STREET, 2203 CANAL
BOULEVARD OR 5430 ROYAL STREET,
2211, 2219, 2227, 2235, 2307, 2315, 2314,
2306, 2238, 2230, 2222 AND 2214 CANAL
BOULEVARD AS RESIDENTIALLY
DISTRESSED AREAS FOR PURPOSES
OF A (5) FIVE-YEAR RESIDENTIAL
REAL PROPERTY TAX ABATEMENT
FOR TAMPICO DEVELOPMENTS, LLC
WHEREAS, the Common Council of the City of South Bend, Indiana, has
adopted a Declaratory Resolution designating certain areas within the City as
Residentially Distressed Areas for the purpose of tax abatement consideration; and
WHEREAS, a Declaratory Resolution designated the area commonly known as
9.82 acres in the NW1/4, Section 32, T37N, R3E, South Bend, Indiana, and which is
more particularly described as follows:
31 lots located within the proposed Crescent Oaks, Section One
A PARCEL OF LAND BEING A PART OF PARENT PART OF LAND AS DESCRIBED IN
DEED RECORD INSTRUMENT NUMBER 9944308 AS RECORDED IN OFFICE OF
RECORDER OF ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, INDIANA, IN PART OF THE NORTHWEST
QUARTER OF SECTION 32, TOWNSHIP 37 NORTH, RANGE 3 EAST, PENN TOWNSHIP,
CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA, MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:
COMMENCING AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF SAID SECTION 32; THENCE
SOUTH 00 DEGREES 16 MINUTES 29 SECONDS EAST ALONG THE WEST LINE OF
SAID NORTHWEST QUARTER; A DISTANCE OF 1363.59 FEET TO THE POINT OF
BEGINNING; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 53 MINUTES 49 SECONDS EAST ALONG
THE SOUTH LINE OF A PARCEL OF LAND AS RECORDED UNDER INSTRUMENT
NUMBER 8634826 IN THE OFFICE OF SAID RECORDER, A DISTANCE OF 753.67 FEET;
THENCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST, A DISTANCE OF
624.74 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 89 DEGREES 51 MINUTES 58 SECONDS WEST ALONG
THE NORTH LINE OF STONEHEDGE ESTATES, SECTION THREE, PART TWO AND
5
REGULAR MEETING MAY 12, 2008
STONEHEDGE ESTATES, SECTION II, AS RECORDED UNDER INSTRUMENT
NUMBERS 9516217 AND 9236154, RESPECTIVELY, IN THE OFFICE OF SAID
RECORDER, A DISTANCE OF 750.68 FEET TO THE WEST LINE OF SAID NORTHWEST
QUARTER; THENCE NORTH 00 DEGREES 16 MINUTES 29 SECONDS WEST ALONG
SAID WEST LINE, A DISTANCE OF 625.15 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING; SAID
DESCRIBED PARCEL CONTAINING 10.791 ACRES, MORE OR LESS;
SUBJECT TO ANY EASEMENTS, COVENANTS, RESTRICTIONS, AND RIGHTS OF WAY
OF RECORD.
LEGAL DESCRIPTION HEREIN PREPARED BY THOMAS A. OESTERLING,
REGISTERED LAND SURVEYOR, INDIANA LICENSE NUMBER 11462, EMPLOYED BY
ABONMARCHE CONSULTANTS OF INDIANA, LLC, FOR TAMPICO DEVELOPMENTS,
L.L.C., ON APRIL 14, 2008. LINE BEARING DATUM DESCRIBED HEREIN BEING
RELATIVE TO SAID STAFFORDSHIRE ESTATES, SECTION TWO SUBDIVISION.
and these lots do not yet have individual key numbers but are part of the parcel with the
Tax ID Number 26-1035-0589.02 be designated as a Residentially Distressed Area under
the provisions of Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1 et seq., and South Bend Municipal Code
Sections 2-76 et seq., and;
WHEREAS, notice of the adoption of a Declaratory Resolution and the public
hearing before the Council has been published pursuant to Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1-2.5;
and
WHEREAS, the Council held a public hearing for the purposes of hearing all
remonstrances and objections from interested persons; and
WHEREAS, the Council has determined that the qualifications for a residentially
distressed area have been met.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Common Council of the City of
South Bend, Indiana, as follows:
SECTION I. The Common Council hereby determines and finds that the petition for real
property tax abatement and the Statement of Benefits form meet the requirements of
Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1 et seq., for tax abatement.
SECTION II. The Common Council hereby determines and finds that the area meets one
of the following conditions as formally established in Ordinance No. 9394-03, which was
passed on February 10, 2003:
A. The area is comprised of parcels that are either unimproved or contain only
one (1) or two (2) family dwellings designed for up to four (4) families,
including accessory buildings for those dwellings; or
B. Any dwellings in the area are not permanently occupied and are:
i. the subject of an order issued under IC 36-7-9; or
ii. evidencing significant building deficiencies; or
C. Parcels of property in the area:
i. have been sold and not redeemed under IC 6-1.1-24 and IC 6-1.1-25;
or
ii. are owned by a unit of local government; or
D. A significant number of dwelling units within the area are not permanently
occupied or a significant number of parcels in the area are vacant land; or
E. A significant number of dwelling units within the area are:
i. the subject of an order issued under IC 36-7-9; or
ii. evidencing significant building deficiencies; or
F. The area has experienced a net loss in the number of dwelling units, as
documented by census information, local building and demolition permits,
or certificates of occupancy, or the areas are owned by Indiana or the United
States; or
G. The area (plus any areas previously designated under this subsection) will
6
REGULAR MEETING MAY 12, 2008
not exceed ten percent (10%) of the total area within the Council’s
jurisdiction.
SECTION III. The Common Council also hereby determines and finds the following:
A. That the description of the proposed redevelopment meets the applicable
standards for such development.
B. That the estimate of the value of the redevelopment is reasonable for
projects of this nature;
C. That the other benefits about which information was requested are benefits
that can be reasonably expected to result from the proposed described
redevelopment; and
D. That the totality of benefits is sufficient to justify the requested deduction,
all of which satisfy the requirements of Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1-3.
E. The deduction will not be allowed unless the dwelling is rehabilitated to
meet local code standards for habitability.
F. The deduction will not be allowed unless the dwelling rehabilitation is
completed within five (5) calendar years from the date of the adoption of
this Resolution by the Common Council.
SECTION IV. The Common Council hereby confirms its Declaratory Resolution
designating the area described herein as a Residentially Distressed Area for the purposes
of tax abatement. Such designation is for Real property tax abatement only and is limited
to five (5) calendar years from the date of adoption of the Declaratory Resolution by the
Common Council.
SECTION V. The Common Council hereby determines that the property owner is
qualified for and is granted Real property tax deduction for a period of five (5) years, and
further determines that the petition complies with Chapter 2, Article 6, of the Municipal
Code of the City of South Bend and Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1 et seq.
SECTION VI. This Resolution shall be in full force and effect from and after its
adoption by the Common Council and approval by the Mayor.
s/Timothy A. Rouse
Member of the Common Council
Mr. Derek Spier, Abonmarche Consultants, LLC, 750 Lincolnway East, South Bend,
Indiana made the presentation for this bill on behalf of Tampico Developments, LLC.
Mr. Spier advised that advised that Tampico Developments, LLC, intends to develop 9.82
acres of agricultural farmland into 31 residential lots. The lots will be located within the
proposed development called Crescent Oaks. The homes will be built by Weiss Homes
and will range in size from 1,300 to 2,000 square feet and will include basements. The
estimated price of each home if $185,000.
A Public Hearing was held on the Resolution at this time.
There being no one present wishing to speak to the Council either in favor of or in
opposition to this Resolution, Councilmember Dieter made a motion to adopt this
Resolution. Councilmember Varner seconded the motion which carried and the
Resolution was adopted by a roll call vote of nine (9) ayes.
7
REGULAR MEETING MAY 12, 2008
BILL NO. 08-42 A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE
ADOPTION OF A DECLARATORY
RESOLUTION DESIGNATING CERTAIN
AREAS WITHIN THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND,
INDIANA, COMMONLY KNOWN AS 701
SOUTH GRANT STREET AND 601 COTTAGE
GROVE AVENUE AS RESIDENTIALLY
DISTRESSED AREAS FOR PURPOSES OF A
FIVE (5) YEAR RESIDENTIAL REAL
PROPERTY TAX ABATEMENT FOR HABITAT
FOR HUMANITY
Councilmember White made a motion to continue this bill until the May 27, 2008
meeting of the Council due to the lack of a presenter. Councilmember Dieter seconded
the motion which carried by a voice vote of nine (9) ayes.
BILL NO. 08-43 A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE
ADOPTION OF A DECLARATORY
RESOLUTION DESIGNATING CERTAIN
AREAS WITHIN THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND,
INDIANA, COMMONLY KNOWN AS 1433
NORTHSIDE BOULEVARD AS AN ECONOMIC
REVITALIZATION AREA FOR PURPOSES OF
A TWO (2) YEAR REAL PROPERTY TAX
ABATEMENT FOR RIVER ROCK,
INCORPORATED
Councilmember Oliver Davis made a motion to continue this bill until the May 27, 2008
meeting of the Council at the request of the petitioner. Councilmember Puzzello
seconded the motion which carried by a voice vote of nine (9) ayes.
RESOLUTION NO. 3863-08 A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND
DESIGNATING CERTAIN AREAS WITHIN THE
CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA,
COMMONLY KNOWN AS 1401 NORTH MAIN
STREET AN ECONOMIC REVITALIZATION
AREA FOR PURPOSES OF A (5) FIVE-YEAR
ST
REAL PROPERTY TAX ABATEMENT FOR 1
SOURCE LAND TRUST #13, ROBERT F.
JAGGER, D/B/A OLD FORT BUILDING
SUPPLY OF SOUTH BEND, INC.
WHEREAS, a petition for real property tax abatement has been filed with the City
Clerk for consideration by the Common Council of the City of South Bend, Indiana
requesting that the area commonly known as 1401 South Main Street, South Bend,
Indiana, and which is more particularly described as follows:
th
Lot 2 Studebaker Corridor 5 Minor Sub
and which has Key Number 18-8005-0230 at this point and time, be designated as an
Economic Revitalization Area under the provisions of Indiana Code § 6-1.1-12.1 et seq.,
and South Bend Municipal Code Sections 2-76 et seq., and;
WHEREAS, the Department of Community and Economic Development has
concluded an investigation and prepared a report with information sufficient for the
Common Council to determine that the area qualifies as an Economic Revitalization Area
under Indiana Code § 6-1.1-12.1, et seq., and South Bend Municipal Code Sections 2-76,
8
REGULAR MEETING MAY 12, 2008
et seq., and has further prepared maps and plats showing the boundaries and such other
information regarding the area in question as required by law; and
WHEREAS, the Community and Economic Development Committee of the
Common Council has reviewed said report and recommended to the Common Council
that the area qualifies as an Economic Revitalization Area.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Common Council of the City of
South Bend, Indiana, as follows:
SECTION I. The Common Council hereby determines and finds that the Petition for
Real Property Tax Abatement and the Statement of Benefits form completed by the
Petitioner meet the requirements of Indiana Code § 6-1.1-12.1 et seq., for tax abatement.
SECTION II. The Common Council hereby determines and finds the following:
A. That the description of the proposed redevelopment or rehabilitation meets
the applicable standards for such development;
B. That the estimate of the value of the redevelopment or rehabilitation is
reasonable for projects of this nature;
C. That the estimate of the number of individuals who will be employed or
whose employment will be retained by the Petitioner can reasonably be
expected to result from the proposed described redevelopment or
rehabilitation;
D. That the estimate of the annual salaries of those individuals who will be
employed or whose employment will be retained by the Petitioner can be
reasonably expected to result from the proposed redevelopment or
rehabilitation;
E. That the other benefits about which information was requested are benefits
that can be reasonably expected to result from the proposed described
redevelopment or rehabilitation; and
F. That the totality of benefits is sufficient to justify the requested deduction,
all of which satisfy the requirements of Indiana Code § 6-1.1-12.1-3.
SECTION III. The Common Council hereby determines and finds that the proposed
described redevelopment or rehabilitation can be reasonably expected to yield benefits
identified in the Statement of Benefits as set forth in Sections 1 through 3 of the Petition
for Real Property Tax Abatement Consideration, the Memorandum of Agreement
between the Petitioner and the City of South Bend, and that the Statement of Benefits
form completed by the petitioner, said form being prescribed by the State Board of
Accounts, are sufficient to justify the deduction granted under Indiana Code § 6-1.1-12.1-
3.
SECTION IV. The Common Council hereby accepts the report and recommendation of
the Community and Economic Development Committee that the area herein described be
designated as an Economic Revitalization Area and hereby adopts a Resolution
designating this area as an Economic Revitalization Area for purposes of real property
tax abatement.
SECTION V. The designation as an Economic Revitalization Area shall be limited to
two (2) calendar years from the date of the adoption of this Resolution by the Common
Council.
9
REGULAR MEETING MAY 12, 2008
SECTION VI. The Common Council hereby determines that the property owner is
qualified for and is granted property tax deduction for a period five (5) years.
SECTION VII. The Common Council directs the City Clerk to cause notice of the
adoption of this Declaratory Resolution for Real Property Tax Abatement to be published
pursuant to Indiana Code § 5-3-1 and Indiana Code § 6-1.1-12.1-2.5, said publication
providing notice of the public hearing before the Common Council on the proposed
confirming of said declaration.
SECTION VIII. The Common Council hereby determines that should the Company
receive the Enterprise Zone Investment Deduction under I.C. 6-1.1-45 for the same
property, this Tax Abatement designation shall become null and void. The Company
may not receive an economic revitalization area deduction if it receives an enterprise
zone investment deduction under I.C. 6-1.1-45 for the same property.
SECTION IX. This Resolution shall be in full force and effect from and after its
adoption by the Common Council and approval by the Mayor.
s/Timothy A. Rouse
Member of the Common Council
Councilmember Varner made a motion to correct a scrivener’s error in the title of the
Resolution, the correct address is 1401 South Main Street. Councilmember Oliver Davis
seconded the motion which carried by a roll call vote of nine (9) ayes.
Councilmember Dieter, Chairperson, Community and Economic Development
committee, reported that this committee held a Public Hearing on this bill this afternoon
and voted to send it to the full Council with a favorable recommendation.
Mr. Robert Jagger, President, Old Fort Building Supply, 1401 S. Main Street, South
Bend, Indiana, residing at 57800 Timothy Road, New Carlisle, Indiana, made the
presentation for this bill.
Mr. Jagger advised that Old Fort Building Supply is proposing to construct a 12,000
square foot storage warehouse with the addition of an outside storage area for products
specific to Old Fort’s business. The additional capacity will enable the company to buy
in larger volume and remain competitive in the current downturn of the construction
industry. Mr. Jagger stated that Old Fort Building Supply is a major supplier of
construction materials to the Michiana area. He noted that between 80%-90% of the
company’s sales are to professional contractors and subcontractors. The main product
lines are brick, architectural block, stone, landscaping pavers and wall, drywall, steel
studs, insulation, acoustical ceilings and related products. Mr. Jagger advised that it is
estimated that the total project will create two (2) new, permanent, full-time jobs
representing a new annual payroll of $62,000. The project will also retain twenty (20)
existing, permanent, full-time jobs and one (1) existing, permanent, part-time job
representing an annual payroll of $950,000. Mr. Jagger stated that the project cost is
estimated at $325,000.
A Public Hearing was held on the Resolution at this time.
There being no one present wishing to speak to the Council either in favor of or in
opposition to this Resolution, Councilmember Dieter made a motion to adopt this
Resolution. Councilmember Oliver Davis seconded the motion which carried and the
Resolution was adopted by a roll call vote of nine (9) ayes.
10
REGULAR MEETING MAY 12, 2008
BILL NO. 08-45 A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND
DESIGNATING CERTAIN AREAS WITHIN THE
CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA,
COMMONLY KNOWN AS THE VILLAS AT
LAKE BLACKTHORN – SECTION I, A
CERTAIN 51 LOTS LOCATED ON
APPROXIMATELY 56 ACRES NORTH OF
BRICK ROAD, AND WEST OF AND
ADJACENT TO THE U.S. 31 BYPASS AS
RESIDENTIALLY DISTRESSED AREAS FOR
PURPOSES OF A (5) FIVE-YEAR
RESIDENTIAL REAL PROPERTY TAX
ABATEMENT FOR COOREMAN REAL
ESTATE GROUP, INC.
BILL NO. 08-46 A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND
DESIGNATING CERTAIN AREAS WITHIN THE
CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA,
COMMONLY KNOWN AS THE VILLAS AT
LAKE BLACKTHORN – SECTION II,
LOCATED ON APPROXIMATELY 2.7 ACRES
NORTH OF BRICK ROAD, EAST OF ORANGE
ROAD AND WEST OF THE U.S. 31 BYPASS AS
RESIDENTIALLY DISTRESSED AREAS FOR
PURPOSES OF A (5) FIVE-YEAR
RESIDENTIAL REAL PROPERTY TAX
ABATEMENT FOR COOREMAN REAL
ESTATE GROUP, INC.
Councilmember Dieter made a motion to combine these bills for purpose of Public
Hearing. Councilmember Oliver Davis seconded the motion which carried by a voice
vote of nine (9) ayes.
RESOLUTION NO. 3864-08 A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND
DESIGNATING CERTAIN AREAS WITHIN THE
CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA,
COMMONLY KNOWN AS THE VILLAS AT
LAKE BLACKTHORN – SECTION I, A
CERTAIN 51 LOTS LOCATED ON
APPROXIMATELY 56 ACRES NORTH OF
BRICK ROAD, AND WEST OF AND
ADJACENT TO THE U.S. 31 BYPASS AS
RESIDENTIALLY DISTRESSED AREAS FOR
PURPOSES OF A (5) FIVE-YEAR
RESIDENTIAL REAL PROPERTY TAX
ABATEMENT FOR COOREMAN REAL
ESTATE GROUP, INC.
WHEREAS, a Statement of Benefits and a petition for residential real property tax
abatement have been submitted to and filed with the City Clerk for consideration by the
Common Council of the City of South Bend, Indiana, requesting that the area commonly
known asA CERTAIN 51 LOTS AS LISTED IN EXHIBIT A TO THIS RESOLUTION,
ALL IN THE VILLAS AT LAKE BLACKTHORN – SECTION I, South Bend, Indiana,
and which is more particularly described as follows:
11
REGULAR MEETING MAY 12, 2008
LEGAL DESCRIPTION: THE VILLAS AT LAKE BLACKTHORN, SECTION ONE
A PART OF THE NORTHWEST, SOUTHWEST, AND SOUTHEAST QUARTERS OF SECTION 18,
TOWNSHIP 38 NORTH, RANGE 2 EAST, GERMAN TOWNSHIP, CITY OF SOUTH BEND, ST.
JOSEPH COUNTY, INDIANA BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:
COMMENCING AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTION
18, TOWNSHIP 38 NORTH, RANGE 2 EAST, 5.8 FEET SOUTH OF A 2” IRON MONUMENT WITH
A CAP LABELED “SEC. CORNER”; THENCE SOUTH 89 DEGREES 49 MINUTES 49 SECONDS
WEST, A DISTANCE OF 1549.41 FEET TO THE WEST RIGHT OF WAY OF U.S. ROUTE 31 AND
THE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE ALONG SAID WEST RIGHT OF WAY THE FOLLOWING
NINE (9) COURSES: (1) SOUTH 17 DEGREES 36 MINUTES 51 SECONDS WEST, A DISTANCE OF
85.66 FEET; (2) THENCE SOUTH 25 DEGREES 35 MINUTES 58 SECONDS WEST, A DISTANCE
OF 409.65 FEET TO THE POINT OF CURVATURE OF A NON-TANGENT CURVE, CONCAVE TO
THE EAST, HAVING A RADIUS OF 5950.00 FEET, A CENTRAL ANGLE OF 8 DEGREES 59
MINUTES 58 SECONDS, AND A CHORD OF 933.60 FEET BEARING SOUTH 12 DEGREES 00
MINUTES 23 SECONDS WEST; (3) THENCE SOUTH ALONG SAID RIGHT OF WAY CURVE, A
DISTANCE OF 934.56 FEET; (4) THENCE SOUTH 16 DEGREES 02 MINUTES 40 SECONDS WEST,
A DISTANCE OF 211.20 FEET; (5) THENCE SOUTH 38 DEGREES 30 MINUTES 20 SECONDS
WEST, A DISTANCE OF 481.60 FEET; (6) THENCE NORTH 0 DEGREES 45 MINUTES 39
SECONDS EAST, A DISTANCE OF 114.32 FEET TO THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF LAND
DESCRIBED IN DEED RECORD BOOK 741, PAGES 475-477, AS RECORDED IN THE OFFICE OF
RECORDER OF ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, INDIANA; (7) THENCE SOUTH 35 DEGREES 15 MINUTES
20 SECONDS WEST, A DISTANCE OF 401.95 FEET; (8) THENCE SOUTH 2 DEGREES 36
MINUTES 09 SECONDS WEST, A DISTANCE OF 256.87 FEET; (9) THENCE SOUTH 85 DEGREES
31 MINUTES 45 SECONDS WEST, A DISTANCE OF 199.30 FEET TO THE SOUTHEAST CORNER
OF LAND DESCRIBED IN INSTRUMENT NUMBER 8717366, AS RECORDED IN THE OFFICE OF
SAID RECORDER; THENCE ALONG THE EAST LINE OF SAID LAND, NORTH 0 DEGREES 15
MINUTES 44 SECONDS EAST, A DISTANCE OF 181.22 FEET; THENCE ALONG THE NORTH
LINE OF SAID LAND, NORTH 89 DEGREES 48 MINUTES 51 SECONDS WEST, A DISTANCE OF
323.58 FEET; THENCE NORTH 0 DEGREES 03 MINUTES 20 SECONDS WEST, A DISTANCE OF
500.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 48 MINUTES 51 SECONDS WEST, A DISTANCE OF
2.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 0 DEGREES 03 MINUTES 20 SECONDS WEST, A DISTANCE OF
100.00 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 89 DEGREES 48 MINUTES 51 SECONDS EAST, A DISTANCE OF
2.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 0 DEGREES 03 MINUTES 20 SECONDS WEST, A DISTANCE OF
500.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 48 MINUTES 51 SECONDS WEST, A DISTANCE OF
2.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 0 DEGREES 03 MINUTES 20 SECONDS WEST, A DISTANCE OF
100.00 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 89 DEGREES 48 MINUTES 51 SECONDS EAST, A DISTANCE OF
2.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 0 DEGREES 03 MINUTES 20 SECONDS WEST, A DISTANCE OF
800.00 FEET TO THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF LOT “A” AS DEPICTED IN THE REPLAT OF
RIGHTER’S ORANGE ROAD MINOR SUBDIVISION, DESCRIBED IN INSTRUMENT NUMBER
8525803, AS RECORDED IN THE OFFICE OF SAID RECORDER; THENCE ALONG THE SOUTH
LINE OF SAID LOT “A”, NORTH 89 DEGREES 50 MINUTES 13 SECONDS EAST, A DISTANCE OF
100.00 FEET; THENCE ALONG THE EAST LINE OF SAID LOT “A”, NORTH 0 DEGREES 03
MINUTES 20 SECONDS WEST, A DISTANCE OF 251.56 FEET TO THE POINT OF CURVATURE
OF A NON-TANGENT CURVE, BEING THE CENTERLINE OF ORANGE ROAD, CONCAVE TO
THE NORTH, HAVING A RADIUS OF 335.00 FEET, A CENTRAL ANGLE OF 19 DEGREES 18
MINUTES 44 SECONDS, AND A CHORD OF 112.38 FEET BEARING NORTH 67 DEGREES 34
MINUTES 35 SECONDS EAST; THENCE EAST ALONG SAID CENTERLINE CURVE, A
DISTANCE OF 112.92 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 0 DEGREES 11 MINUTES 04 SECONDS EAST, A
DISTANCE OF 70.83 FEET TO THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF LOT 1 OF BOGUE’S MAJOR
SUBDIVISION, DESCRIBED IN INSTRUMENT NUMBER 8932797, AS RECORDED IN THE
OFFICE OF SAID RECORDER AND THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF LAND DESCRIBED IN
INSTRUMENT NUMBER 9331954, AS RECORDED IN THE OFFICE OF SAID RECORDER;
THENCE ALONG THE BOUNDARY OF SAID LAND THE NEXT THREE (3) COURSES; (1) SOUTH
26 DEGREES 45 MINUTES 04 SECONDS EAST, A DISTANCE OF 66.96 FEET; (2) THENCE NORTH
89 DEGREES 49 MINUTES 49 SECONDS EAST, A DISTANCE OF 556.25 FEET; (3) THENCE
NORTH 0 DEGREES 45 MINUTES 39 SECONDS EAST, A DISTANCE OF 80.00 FEET TO THE
NORTH LINE OF THE SOUTH HALF OF SECTION 18, TOWNSHIP 38 NORTH, RANGE 2 EAST;
THENCE ALONG SAID NORTH LINE NORTH 89 DEGREES 49 MINUTES 49 SECONDS EAST, A
DISTANCE OF 729.56 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. EXCEPTING THAT PORTION
WHICH INCLUDES LOTS 1 THROUGH 5 INCLUSIVE, OF THE VILLAS AT LAKE BLACKTHORN
SECTION ONE, AS SHOWN ON THE FINAL PLAT, RECORDED APRIL 21, 2003, IN THE OFFICE
OF THE RECORDER OF ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, AS INSTRUMENT #0323151.
SAID DESCRIBED TRACT CONTAINING 56.25 ACRES, MORE OR LESS.
SUBJECT TO ALL EASEMENTS, AND RIGHT OF WAY OF RECORD.
and this property which has Tax Key Numbers as listed in Exhibit A to this Resolution, be
designated as a Residentially Distressed Area under the provisions of Indiana Code 6-1.1-
12.1 et seq., and South Bend Municipal Code Sections 2-76 et seq., and;
12
REGULAR MEETING MAY 12, 2008
WHEREAS, the Department of Community and Economic Development has concluded
an investigation and prepared a report with information sufficient for the Common
Council to determine that the area qualifies as a Residentially Distressed Area under
Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1, et seq., and South Bend Municipal Code Sections 2-76, et seq.,
and has further prepared maps and plats showing the boundaries and such other
information regarding the area in question as required by law; and
WHEREAS, the Community and Economic Development Committee of the Common
Council has reviewed said report and recommended to the Common Council that the area
qualifies as a Residentially Distressed Area.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Common Council of the City of South
Bend, Indiana, as follows:
SECTION, I. The Common Council hereby determines and finds that the petition for real
property tax abatement and the Statement of Benefits form meet the requirements of
Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1 et seq., for tax abatement.
SECTION II. The Common Council hereby determines and finds that the area meets one
of the following conditions as formally established in Ordinance No. 9394-03, which was
passed on February 10, 2003:
A. The area is comprised of parcels that are either unimproved or contain only one
(1) or two (2) family dwellings designed for up to four (4) families, including accessory
buildings for those dwellings; or
B. Any dwellings in the area are not permanently occupied and are:
i. the subject of an order issued under IC 36-7-9; or
ii. evidencing significant building deficiencies; or
C. Parcels of property in the area:
i. have been sold and not redeemed under IC 6-1.1-24 and IC 6-1.1-
25; or
ii. are owned by a unit of local government; or
D. A significant number of dwelling units within the area are not permanently
occupied or a significant number of parcels in the area are vacant land; or
E. A significant number of dwelling units within the area are:
i. the subject of an order issued under IC 36-7-9; or
ii. evidencing significant building deficiencies; or
F. The area has experienced a net loss in the number of dwelling units, as
documented by census information, local building and demolition permits, or certificates
of occupancy, or the areas are owned by Indiana or the United States; or,
G. The area (plus any areas previously designated under this subsection) will not
exceed ten percent (10%) of the total area within the Council’s jurisdiction.
SECTION III. The Common Council also hereby determines and finds the following:
A. That the description of the proposed redevelopment meets the applicable
standards for such development.
B. That the estimate of the value of the redevelopment is reasonable for projects of
this nature;
C. That the other benefits about which information was requested are benefits that
can be reasonably expected to result from the proposed described redevelopment; and
D. That the totality of benefits is sufficient to justify the requested deduction, all of
which satisfy the requirements of Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1-3.
E. The deduction will not be allowed unless the dwelling is rehabilitated to meet
local code standards for habitability.
F. The deduction will not be allowed unless the dwelling rehabilitation is completed
within five (5) calendar years commencing from November 12, 2008, or the date of the
adoption of this Resolution by the Common Council whichever date is later.
13
REGULAR MEETING MAY 12, 2008
SECTION IV. The Common Council hereby determines and finds that the proposed
described redevelopment can be reasonably expected to yield benefits identified in the
Statement of Benefits and the petition for real property tax abatement consideration and
that the Statement of Benefits form prescribed by the State Board of Accounts are
sufficient to justify the deduction granted under Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1-3.
SECTION V. The Common Council hereby accepts the report and recommendation of
the Community and Economic Development Committee that the area herein described be
designated as a Residentially Distressed Area and hereby adopts a Resolution designating
this area as a Residentially Distressed Area for purposes of real property tax abatement.
SECTION VI. The designation as a Residentially Distressed Area shall be limited to five
(5) calendar years commencing from November 12, 2008, or the date of the adoption of
this Resolution by the Common Council whichever date is later.
SECTION VII. The Common Council hereby determines that the property owner is
qualified for and is granted property tax deduction for a period of five (5) years.
SECTION VIII. The Common Council directs the City Clerk to cause notice of the
adoption of this Declaratory Resolution for Real Property Tax Abatement to be published
pursuant to Indiana Code 5-3-1 and Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1-2.5, said publication
providing notice of the public hearing before the Common Council on the proposed
confirming of said declaration.
SECTION IX. Pursuant to Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1-2, the rehabilitation must meet all
local code standards for habitability as a specific condition of having such property
designated as a residentially distressed area.
SECTION X. This Resolution shall be in full force and effect from and after its adoption
by the Common Council and approval by the Mayor.
s/Timothy A. Rouse
Member of the Common Council
RESOLUTION NO. 3865-08 A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND
DESIGNATING CERTAIN AREAS WITHIN THE
CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA,
COMMONLY KNOWN AS THE VILLAS AT
LAKE BLACKTHORN – SECTION II,
LOCATED ON APPROXIMATELY 2.7 ACRES
NORTH OF BRICK ROAD, EAST OF ORANGE
ROAD AND WEST OF THE U.S. 31 BYPASS AS
RESIDENTIALLY DISTRESSED AREAS FOR
PURPOSES OF A (5) FIVE-YEAR
RESIDENTIAL REAL PROPERTY TAX
ABATEMENT FOR COOREMAN REAL
ESTATE GROUP, INC.
WHEREAS, a Statement of Benefits and a petition for residential real property tax
abatement have been submitted to and filed with the City Clerk for consideration by the
Common Council of the City of South Bend, Indiana, requesting that the area commonly
known as 6735BLACKTHORN HARBOR DRIVE, 6747 BLACKTHORN HARBOR
DRIVE (OR 4808 ORANGE ROAD), 4736 ORANGE ROAD (OR 6740
BLACKTHORN HARBOR DRIVE) AND 6716 BLACKTHORN HARBOR DRIVE
(OR 4739 PORTSIDE DRIVE) ALL IN THE VILLAS AT LAKE BLACKTHORN –
,
SECTION II South Bend, Indiana, and which is more particularly described as follows:
LEGAL DESCRIPTION: THE VILLAS AT LAKE BLACKTHORN, SECTIONTWO
14
REGULAR MEETING MAY 12, 2008
PART OF THE SOUTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 18, TOWNSHIP 38 NORTH,
RANGE 2 EAST, GERMAN TOWNSHIP, ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, INDIANA, MORE
PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:
COMMENCING AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF SAID SOUTHWEST
QUARTER, SAID POINT BEING MARKED BY A 1 1/2” DIAMETER ROD;
THENCE SOUTH 89 DEGREES 48 MINUTES 51 SECONDS EAST, ALONG THE
SOUTH LINE OF SAID SOUTHWEST QUARTER, A DISTANCE OF 1490.78 FEET
TO A POINT LYING NORTH 89 DEGREES 48 MINUTES 51 SECONDS WEST, A
DISTANCE OF 3467.01 FEET FROM A 1” DIAMETER ROD, 0.3 FEET BELOW
,
GRADEMARKING THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF SAID SECTION; THENCE
NORTH 0 DEGREES 03 MINUTES 20 SECONDS WEST, A DISTANCE OF 1200.00
FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE CONTINUING NORTH 0
DEGREES 03 MINUTES 20 SECONDS WEST, A DISTANCE OF 296.75 FEET;
THENCE SOUTH 89 DEGREES 48 MINUTES 51 SECONDS EAST, PARALLEL
WITH THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID SOUTHWEST QUARTER, A DISTANCE OF
387.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 0 DEGREES 03 MINUTES 20 SECONDS WEST, A
DISTANCE OF 3.26 FEET; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 48 MINUTES 51
SECONDS WEST, PARALLEL WITH THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID SOUTHWEST
QUARTER, A DISTANCE OF 2.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 0 DEGREES 03
MINUTES 20 SECONDS WEST, A DISTANCE OF 100.00 FEET; THENCE SOUTH
89 DEGREES 48 MINUTES 51 SECONDS EAST, PARALLEL WITH THE SOUTH
LINE OF SAID SOUTHWEST QUARTER, A DISTANCE OF 2.00 FEET; THENCE
NORTH 0 DEGREES 03 MINUTES 20 SECONDS WEST, A DISTANCE OF 300.00
FEET; THENCE SOUTH 89 DEGREES 48 MINUTES 51 SECONDS EAST,
PARALLEL WITH THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID SOUTHWEST QUARTER, A
DISTANCE OF 41.02 FEET TO THE WESTERLY RIGHT OF WAY OF PORTSIDE
DRIVE AND A POINT ON A NON-TANGENT CURVE, CONCAVE TO THE
SOUTHEAST, HAVING A RADIUS OF 225.00 FEET, A CENTRAL ANGLE OF 34
DEGREES 42 MINUTES AND 00 SECONDS, AND A CHORD OF 134.19 FEET
BEARING SOUTH 17 DEGREES 17 MINUTES 40 SECONDS WEST; THENCE
SOUTHWESTERLY ALONG SAID WESTERLY RIGHT OF WAY CURVE, A
DISTANCE OF 136.27 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 0 DEGREES 03 MINUTES 20
SECONDS EAST, A DISTANCE OF 571.74 FEET; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES
48 MINUTES 51 SECONDS WEST, PARALLEL WITH THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID
SOUTHWEST QUARTER, A DISTANCE OF 388.00 FEET TO THE POINT OF
BEGINNING; SAID DESCRIBED TRACT CONTAINING 2.7 ACRES, MORE OR
LESS.
SUBJECT TO ALL EASEMENTS, RESTRICTIONS AND RIGHT OF WAY OF
RECORD.
and this property which has Tax Key Numbers 25-1010-017403, 25-1010-017428, 25-
1010-017429 and 25-1010-017728, be designated as a Residentially Distressed Area
under the provisions of Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1 et seq., and South Bend Municipal Code
Sections 2-76 et seq., and;
WHEREAS, the Department of Community and Economic Development has
concluded an investigation and prepared a report with information sufficient for the
Common Council to determine that the area qualifies as a Residentially Distressed Area
under Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1, et seq., and South Bend Municipal Code Sections 2-76, et
seq., and has further prepared maps and plats showing the boundaries and such other
information regarding the area in question as required by law; and
WHEREAS, the Community and Economic Development Committee of the
Common Council has reviewed said report and recommended to the Common Council
that the area qualifies as a Residentially Distressed Area.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Common Council of the City of
South Bend, Indiana, as follows:
SECTION, I. The Common Council hereby determines and finds that the petition for real
property tax abatement and the Statement of Benefits form meet the requirements of
15
REGULAR MEETING MAY 12, 2008
Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1 et seq., for tax abatement.
SECTION II. The Common Council hereby determines and finds that the area meets one
of the following conditions as formally established in Ordinance No. 9394-03, which was
passed on February 10, 2003:
A. The area is comprised of parcels that are either unimproved or contain
only one (1) or two (2) family dwellings designed for up to four (4)
families, including accessory buildings for those dwellings; or
B. Any dwellings in the area are not permanently occupied and are:
i. the subject of an order issued under IC 36-7-9; or
ii. evidencing significant building deficiencies; or
C. Parcels of property in the area:
i. have been sold and not redeemed under IC 6-1.1-24 and IC 6-1.1-25;
or
ii. are owned by a unit of local government; or
D. A significant number of dwelling units within the area are not permanently
occupied or a significant number of parcels in the area are vacant land; or
E. A significant number of dwelling units within the area are:
i. the subject of an order issued under IC 36-7-9; or
ii. evidencing significant building deficiencies; or
F. The area has experienced a net loss in the number of dwelling units, as
documented by census information, local building and demolition permits,
or certificates of occupancy, or the areas are owned by Indiana or the
United States; or,
G. The area (plus any areas previously designated under this subsection) will
not exceed ten percent (10%) of the total area within the Council’s
jurisdiction.
SECTION III. The Common Council also hereby determines and finds the following:
A. That the description of the proposed redevelopment meets the applicable
standards for such development.
B. That the estimate of the value of the redevelopment is reasonable for
projects of this nature;
C. That the other benefits about which information was requested are benefits
that can be reasonably expected to result from the proposed described
redevelopment; and
D. That the totality of benefits is sufficient to justify the requested deduction,
all of which satisfy the requirements of Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1-3.
E. The deduction will not be allowed unless the dwelling is rehabilitated to
meet local code standards for habitability.
F. The deduction will not be allowed unless the dwelling rehabilitation is
completed within five (5) calendar years commencing from July 28, 2008,
or the date of the adoption of this Resolution by the Common Council
whichever date is later.
SECTION IV. The Common Council hereby determines and finds that the proposed
described redevelopment can be reasonably expected to yield benefits identified in the
Statement of Benefits and the petition for real property tax abatement consideration and
that the Statement of Benefits form prescribed by the State Board of Accounts are
sufficient to justify the deduction granted under Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1-3.
SECTION V. The Common Council hereby accepts the report and recommendation of
the Community and Economic Development Committee that the area herein described be
designated as a Residentially Distressed Area and hereby adopts a Resolution designating
this area as a Residentially Distressed Area for purposes of real property tax abatement.
SECTION VI. The designation as a Residentially Distressed Area shall be limited to five
(5) calendar years commencing from July 28, 2008, or the date of the adoption of this
16
REGULAR MEETING MAY 12, 2008
Resolution by the Common Council whichever date is later.
SECTION VII. The Common Council hereby determines that the property owner is
qualified for and is granted property tax deduction for a period of five (5) years.
SECTION VIII. The Common Council directs the City Clerk to cause notice of the
adoption of this Declaratory Resolution for Real Property Tax Abatement to be published
pursuant to Indiana Code 5-3-1 and Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1-2.5, said publication
providing notice of the public hearing before the Common Council on the proposed
confirming of said declaration.
SECTION IX. Pursuant to Indiana Code 6-1.1-12.1-2, the rehabilitation must meet all
local code standards for habitability as a specific condition of having such property
designated as a residentially distressed area.
SECTION X. This Resolution shall be in full force and effect from and after its adoption
by the Common Council and approval by the Mayor.
s/Timothy A. Rouse
Member of the Common Council
Councilmember Dieter, Chairperson, Community and Economic Development
Committee, reported that this committee held a Public Hearing on these bills this
afternoon and voted to send them to the full Council with a favorable recommendation.
Additionally, Councilmember Dieter disclosed that he owns real estate in the Villas at
Lake Blackthorn and after discussion with Council Attorney Kathleen Cekanski-Farrand
it has been determined that there is no conflict of interest in this matter.
Donna Chamblee, Vice-President, Operations, Cooreman Real Estate Group, Inc., 4407
Technology Drive, South Bend, Indiana, made the presentation for these bills.
Ms. Chamblee advised that Section I of the subject subdivision was granted five-year
residential real property tax abatement on December 9, 2002, through Common Council
Resolution number 3138-02. The Redevelopment Commission also approved the tax
abatement petition through Resolution Number 1917 on November 1, 2002. The
Common Council’s resolution confirmed its earlier declaratory resolution designating
Section I as a Residentially Distressed Area (RDA) and that designation was limited to
five calendar years from the date of the passage of the declaratory resolution, which was
November 12, 2002. Ms. Chamblee stated that economic market factors, including the
tightening of the credit market and the decline of real estate property values, have
compounded the impact of the higher than comparable city taxes in this subdivision.
Additionally, the majority of the unsold property in this neighborhood is located adjacent
to the US 31 Bypass – a negative that has proven to be an immitigable factor in the slow
growth of sales.
A Public Hearing was held on the Resolution at this time.
There being no one present wishing to speak to the Council either in favor of or in
opposition to these Resolutions.
Councilmember Puzzello made a motion to adopt Bill No. 08-45. Councilmember Oliver
Davis seconded the motion which carried and the Resolution was adopted by a roll call
vote of nine (9) ayes.
Councilmember Varner made a motion to adopt Bill No. 08-46. Councilmember Oliver
Davis seconded the motion which carried and the Resolution was adopted by a roll call
vote of nine (9) ayes.
17
REGULAR MEETING MAY 12, 2008
BILLS – FIRST READING
BILL NO. 24-08 FIRST READING ON A BILL AMENDING THE
ZONING ORDINANCE FOR PROPERTY
LOCATED IN THE 2900 BLOCK OF SOUTH
MAIN STREET, SOUTH BEND, INDIANA,
COUNCILMANIC DISTRICT NO. 6, IN THE
CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA
This bill had first reading. Councilmember Varner made a motion to refer this bill to the
Area Plan Commission. Councilmember Dieter seconded the motion which carried by a
voice vote of nine (9) ayes.
BILL NO. 25-08 FIRST READING ON A BILL OF THE
COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH
BEND, INDIANA, ANNEXING TO AND
BRINGING WITHIN THE CITY LIMITS OF
SOUTH BEND, INDIANA, CERTAIN LAND IN
GERMAN TOWNSHIP, CONTIGUOUS
THEREWITH’; COUNCILMANIC DISTRICT 1,
WAGGONER FARM DEVELOPMENT, L.P.
SECTION 2, 51270 MAYFLOWER ROAD,
SOUTH BEND, INDIANA
Councilmember Puzzello made a motion to refer this bill to the Zoning & Annexation
Committee and set it for Public Hearing and Second Reading on June 23, 2008 and Third
Reading on July 14, 2008. Councilmember Dieter seconded the motion which carried by
a voice vote of nine (9) ayes.
BILL NO. 26-08 FIRST READING ON A BILL OF THE
COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH
BEND, INDIANA AMENDING CHAPTER 13,
ARTICLE 10 OF THE SOUTH BEND
MUNICIPAL CODE CONCERNING FIREARMS
Councilmember Varner made a motion to refer this bill to the Health and Public Safety
Committee and set it for Public Hearing and Third Reading on June 9, 2008.
Councilmember Dieter seconded the motion which carried by a voice vote of nine (9)
ayes.
BILL NO. 27-08 FIRST READING ON A BILL OF THE
COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH
BEND, INDIANA, APPROPRIATING
$1,000,000.00 OF INDIANA COMMUNITY
REVITALIZATION ENHANCEMENT DISTRICT
INCREMENT FUNDS WITHIN THE
INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT FUND, FUND
434, FOR THE PURPOSE OF DEVELOPMENT
AND REDEVELOPMENT WITHIN THE CITY
OF SOUTH BEND STUDEBAKER/OLIVER
COMMUNITY REVITALIZATION
ENHANCEMENT DISTRICT
Councilmember Puzzello made a motion to refer this bill to the Community and
Economic Development Committee and set it for Public Hearing and Third Reading on
May 27, 2008. Councilmember Varner seconded the motion which carried by a voice
vote of nine (9) ayes.
18
REGULAR MEETING MAY 12, 2008
BILL NO. 28-08 FIRST READING ON A BILL OF THE
COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH
BEND, INDIANA APPROPRIATING $178,320
WITHIN FUND 212 FROM THE U.S.
DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN
DEVELOPMENT SHELTER PLUS CARE
GRANT PROGRAM
This bill had first reading. Councilmember Varner made a motion to refer this bill to the
Community and Economic Development Committee and set it for Public Hearing and
Third Reading on May 27, 2008. Councilmember Oliver Davis seconded the motion
which carried by a voice vote of nine (9) ayes.
BILL NO. 29-08 FIRST READING ON A BILL OF THE
COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH
BEND, INDIANA TO APPROPRIATE FUNDS
FROM VARIOUS ACCOUNTS: $2,000,000
FROM UDAG FUND (#410); $110,000 FROM
EDIT FUND (#408); AND $105,000 FROM
EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES FUND
(#288) FOR VARIOUS COSTS
This bill had first reading. Councilmember Varner made a motion to refer this bill to the
Personnel & Finance Committee and set it for Public Hearing and Third Reading
on May 27, 2008. Councilmember White seconded the motion which carried by a voice
vote of nine (9) ayes.
BILL NO. 30-08 FIRST READING ON A BILL OF THE
COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH
BEND, INDIANA TO APPROPRIATE $2,000,000
FROM LOCAL ROADS AND STREET FUND
(#251) FOR IMPROVEMENTS AT THE
IRONWOOD/MCKINLEY INTERSECTION
This bill had first reading. Councilmember Puzzello made a motion to refer this bill to
the Public Works and Property Vacation Committee and set it for Pubic Hearing and
Third Reading on May 27, 2008. Councilmember White seconded the motion which
carried by a voice vote of nine (9) ayes.
BILL NO. 31-08 FIRST READING ON A BILL OF THE
COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH
BEND, INDIANA TO APPROPRIATE $218,963
FROM GENERAL FUND (#101) FOR 2007
ELECTION COSTS
This bill had first reading. Councilmember Varner made a motion to refer this bill to the
Personnel & Finance Committee and set it for Public Hearing and Third Reading
on May 27, 2008. Councilmember LaFountain seconded the motion which carried by a
voice vote of nine (9) ayes.
19
REGULAR MEETING MAY 12, 2008
BILL NO. 32-08 FIRST READING ON A BILL TO VACATE THE
FOLLOWING DESCRIBED PROPERTY: THE
ALLEY TO BE VACATED IS THE EAST/WEST
ALLEY NORTH OF LASALLE AVENUE FROM
NOTRE DAME AVENUE EAST ALONG THE
NORTH LOT LINES OF LOTS 7, 8 AND 9 OF
DUNN’S SUBDIVISION FOR A DISTANCE OF
116 FEET AND A WIDTH OF 10 FEET BEING A
PART OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND,
PORTAGE TOWNSHIP, ST. JOSEPH COUNTY,
INDIANA
This bill had first reading. Councilmember Puzzello made a motion to refer this bill to
the Public Works and Property Vacation Committee and set it for Pubic Hearing and
Third Reading on May 27, 2008. Councilmember Oliver Davis seconded the motion
which carried by a voice vote of nine (9) ayes.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
APPEAL OF A CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS FOR 710 PARK AVENUE –
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
Kathleen Cekanski-Farrand, Council Attorney, stated the rules governing the appeal to
the South Bend Common Council:
She stated that the Petitioner will have twenty (20) minutes maximum to present their
case in chief which shall include:
?
Specific issues under review
?
Statement of position by the petitioner, petitioner’s attorney (if any)
?
Witness statements, if any
?
Requested action
Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) will have twenty (20) minutes maximum which
shall include:
?
Statement of position by the HPC attorney
?
Witness statements, if any
?
Requested action
Petitioner will have five (5) minutes of rebuttal statements to the case in chief presented
by HPC.
Common Council questions and disposition portion will have a maximum of fifteen (15)
minutes.
The Common Council shall review actions of the HPC which are appealed and determine
such action was:
1. Arbitrary, capricious, an abuse of discretion, or otherwise not in accordance with
applicable law;
2. Contrary to constitutional right, power, privilege, or immunity;
3. In excess of statutory jurisdiction, authority, limitations or statutory rights;
4. Without observance of procedures requirement by applicable laws and
ordinances; or
5. Unsupported by substantial evidence.
20
REGULAR MEETING MAY 12, 2008
A roll call vote by the City Clerk shall be taken on a properly made motion and second
either sustaining the action of the HPC or overruling their decision. Reasons for the
motion shall be articulated in the record.
Mr. Robert E. Rodes, Jr., Attorney at Law, 320 Law Bldg., Notre Dame, Indiana,
represented the petitioner Georges Enderle and Xiaohui Ma, husband and wife.
Mr. Rodes advised that this appeal is from the denial by the Historic Preservation
Commission of Application #3008-0214 for a Certificate of Appropriateness regarding
the petitioner’s home at 710 Park Avenue, South Bend. He stated that this appeal turns
on questions of law, as to which the Standard of Review is de novo. He stated that the
issue is whether the Commission has authority to deny a Certificate of Appropriateness
for a treatment of windows that will improve the comfort and energy efficiency of the
house without its external appearance. Mr. Rodes stated that the home is located at 710
Park Avenue and is occupied by the petitioner as their home. He stated that the home is
designated an historic landmark, and is located within the Chapin Park Historic
Preservation District. During the winter of 2005-2006, the petitioner’s became convinced
that for comfort and for saving on fuel costs certain of their windows should be fitted
with double glazing inset of the single panes of glass currently in place. Accordingly,
beginning in August, 2006, they entered into discussions with the Commission staff to
seek a Certificate of Appropriateness for the project. After some months of discussion, it
appeared that no agreement could be reached, so the petitioners filed application #2007-
1107 without staff approval. That application was voted on inconclusively at the
November, 2007 meeting of the Commission. It was continued through the December,
2007 meeting at the petitioner’s request, because one of the Commissioners had
suggested an alternative that seemed worth exploring. It was taken up at the January,
2008 meeting, at which yet another alternative was brought forward. Counsel for
Applicants agreed to a further continuance so that an alternative could be considered. On
the basis of that consideration, Applicants filed their Application #2008-0214, embodying
the new alternative. Mr. Rhodes stated that the Commission did not formally adopt a
statement of reasons for the denial. Rather, the members stated their reasons
individually. The reasons were summed up by Ms. Hostetler, the Director of the
Commission, she stated, “First and Foremost is the Commission’s rationale that these
windows “can be restored and reused in place.” And then went on to state that “The
consensus among the Commissioners is that these windows can be repaired and should
not be replaced with modern materials.” Mr. Rodes noted that the Commissioners, in
giving their reasons, made no claim that the proposal would affect the appearance of the
house from the street. Mr. Rodes advised that this building is subject to the
Commission’s Preservation Standards for Group B Landmarks. The proposed work is a
“treatment” within the language of those standards: “Treatment shall be defined as any
change of surface materials that will not alter the style or original form.” The applicable
standard says “A treatment change of any surface… may require a Certificate of
Appropriateness if it significantly alters the appearance of the landmark.” The
Applicants’ proposed treatment does not significantly alter the appearance of the house.
Mr. Rodes also stated that the building is of course also subject to the Commission’s
Guidelines for the Chapin Park Historic District, which calls for leaving original
windows exactly as they are unless they are deteriorated beyond repair. Mr. Rodes stated
that the petitioner concedes that what they propose to do is inconsistent with the
requirements embodied in this language of the Guidelines. It is the petitioners’ position
that these requirements exceed the authority of the Commission. Mr. Rodes stated that
the denial of this application is inconsistent with Section 21-13.02(f)(1) of the Municipal
Code which says that the Historic Preservation Commission may adopt only those
standards necessary to prevent such alteration which is not in keeping with the purpose
and intent of this article. The purpose and intent are not specifically stated, but they can
be inferred from Section 21-13.02(e)(5)(B)(1), which requires the Commission in
deciding on an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness to consider:
Appropriateness of the proposed…alteration…to the preservation of the historic
landmark, specifically, and/or the Historic Preservation District, generally. That is, the
Commission is to take into account the general character of the building, if it is a historic
landmark, and the general ambience of the district, whether or not the building is a
historic landmark. This language does not authorize the Commission to limit
21
REGULAR MEETING MAY 12, 2008
homeowners to nineteenth century technology. Mr. Rodes stated that this interpretation
is supported by Section 21-13.02(f)(2), which limits the authority of the Commission to
“exterior features.” According to The American Heritage Disctionary, a “feature” is
“The make-up, shape, proportions, form, or outward appearance of something,” or “Any
prominent or distinctive aspect, quality, or characteristic.” Other meanings of the term,
such as those pertaining to faces or showings of films, are not relevant here. Given this
definition, it stands to reason that work the Commission is authorized to prevent must at
least involve a change in the outward appearance of a building, or in some prominent or
distinctive aspect of it. Mr. Rodes stated that similarly, Section 21-13.02(d)(5)(D)(ii),
gives interim protection to a potential historic landmark only against “Conspicuous”
alteration. Mr. Rodes stated that if the Council, in enacting the Ordinance, had intended
to forbid inconspicuous alterations of designated historic landmarks, it would not have
allowed such alterations while the designation was pending. The Commission itself
apparently adopted this interpretation of the Municipal Code when it limited the
application of its Group B Landmark Standard to treatment the “significantly alters the
appearance of the landmark.” Mr. Rodes stated that it is clear that the work proposed in
this application will not affect the historical and architectural character of the house, and
that it will not be obviously incongruous with the Chapin Park District. Mr. Rodes noted
that Municipal Code Section 21-13.02(e)(5)(B)(iii) requires the Commission to consider
“the potential hardship that the denial of a certificate of appropriateness would cause the
applicant.” Mr. Rodes concluded with that during the lengthy discussion of different
proposals for these windows, a number of alternative ways of improving the comfort and
energy efficiency of the house were considered. None was satifactory, and one was
relied on by any of the Commission members in stating their reasons for denying this
application. Mr. Rodes stated that if it is a hardship to live with nineteenth century
windows and twenty-first century heating costs, it is one the Commission is willing to
have petitioners undergo.
Mr. Lawrence J. Meteiver, Assistant City Attorney, City of South Bend, Attorney for the
th
Historic Preservation Commission of South Bend and St. Joseph County, 14 Floor
County-City Building, 227 W. Jefferson Blvd., South Bend, Indiana
Mr. Meteiver advised that at its meeting of February 14, 2008, the Historic Preservation
Commission of South Bend and St. Joseph County (HPC), after hearing extensive
evidence and conducting a lengthy deliberation, voted unanimously to deny the owner’s
application for a Certificate of Appropriateness for “Four wood ‘tilt-pacs’, double hung
(Marvin) in the bay area” for the property located at 710 Park Avenue, South Bend. The
HPC urges the Council to affirm its decision, because the HPC had full authority to take
the action that it took and because the HPC’s action was not arbitrary, capricious or an
abuse of its discretion. The HPC acted rationally, and in accordance with applicable
standards and guidelines. Mr. Meteiver stated that there are three issues: 1. Does the
HPC have the jurisdiction to take the action it took. 2. Was the action taken by the HPC
contrary to law? 3. Was the action taken by the HPC arbitrary and capricious and so
unsupported by the evidence that no rational commission member should have voted for
the action. Mr. Meteiver stated that the HPC was established by local ordinance adopted
by the Council prior to 1977, pursuant to the State Statute existing at the time of the
adoption of the local ordinance. The current State Statute provides: If before July 1,
1977, a unit established by ordinance a commission for the purpose of historic
preservation, that commission may continue to operate, regardless of whether that
ordinance is subsequently amended or is consistent with this chapter.” I.C. 36-7-11-2(a).
There can be no challenge to this existence of the HPC. Mr. Meteiver advised that the
local ordinance gives the HPC the authority to establish standards for the preservation of
structures within historic districts and particularly, the historic landmarks within those
districts. The ordinance provides that the HPC has the power and the duty to establish
reasonable and just standards for the preservation of historic landmarks and Historic
Preservation Districts, including architectural treatment, site development requirements,
and provisions concerning construction, reconstruction, alteration, demolition or removal
of any building or structure, or parts thereof, Provided, however, that: The Historic
Preservation Commission may adopt only those standards necessary to prevent such
construction reconstruction, alteration, demolition, or removal which is not in keeping
with the purpose and intent of this article; and such standards shall be applicable only to
22
REGULAR MEETING MAY 12, 2008
the exterior features of historic landmarks and of buildings or structures within Historic
Preservation Districts” The Municipal Code of the City of South Bend, Indiana, Section
21-13.02(f). Mr. Meteiver stated that in 2000, the Park Avenue Neighborhood
Association Board submitted an application for designation as the Chapin Park Local
Historic District. They worked with the HPC to establish guidelines for the district. The
HPC, through staff distributed proposed rules and an ordinance for the District. The
“Ordinance Amending the Zoning Ordinance of the City of South Bend, Indiana to
Create the Chapin Park Historic Preservation District” was enacted in March of 2005.
Numerous public hearing were held on the standards, with the public submitting a
significant amount of comments. In June of 2005, after a public hearing, the proposed
changes to the standards were adopted as “A Guidebook for South Bend Indiana’s
Chapin Park Local Historic District.” On July 1, 2005 those guidelines were posted on
line with links of such postings provided. The ordinance adopted by the Council makes
specific provisions for the HPC’s authority to decide the Owner’s Application for a
Certificate of Appropriateness: “The Historic Preservation Commission shall issue a
certificate of appropriateness before any one of the following actions is taken: the
construction, reconstruction, alteration, demolition or moving of any exterior feature of
any building, structure, or use. In making such determination, the Historic Preservation
Commission shall consider the follows: appropriateness of the proposed construction,
reconstruction alteration, demolition or moving to the preservation of the historic
landmark, specifically, and/or the Historic Preservation District, generally; the detriment
to the public welfare if the proposed construction, reconstruction, alteration, demolition
or moving is permitted even though it is not deemed appropriate; and the potential
hardship that the denial of a certificate of appropriateness would cause the applicant. Mr.
Meteiver stated that the HPC clearly has the jurisdiction to act with regard to the Owner’s
Application for a Certificate of Appropriateness. Mr. Meteiver advised that the
petitioners allege that three bases to find that the HPC has acted contrary to law. The
denial of this application is inconsistent with Section 21-13.02(f)(1) of the Municipal
Code. The powers of the Commission should be interpreted in the light of I.C. 36-7-11.
The denial of this application would cause hardship to applicants. Mr. Meteiver stated
that the requirements of Section 21-13.02(f) were set forth above. Succinctly, the HPC
has authority to adopt such standards as are reasonably necessary to preserve exterior
features of structures within historic districts and of historic structures. The Chapin Park
Local Historic District sets forth specific requirements with respect to Windows and
Doors: “Original windows and doors shall be retained including sashes, lintels, sills,
shutters, decorative glass, pediments, hoods and hardware. When deteriorated beyond
repair, they shall be replaced with units and trim resembling the original.” (A Guidebook
for South Bend Indiana’s Chapin Park Local Historic District, Section II. Existing
Structures, C. Windows and Doors.) Similar looking units may be substituted only when
the original unit is deteriorated beyond repair. The evidence presented at the hearing on
the petitioners application of a Certificate of Appropriateness overwhelmingly
demonstrates that the windows involved in the Application are not deteriorated beyond
repair. No less than three “Witnesses” stated that the windows can be and should be
restored rather than replaced as the owners wish to do. There is not one shred of
evidence to the contrary. The owners acknowledge that the windows can be reused as
they offered to store them for future use. Mr. Meteiver stated that the owners argue that
the HPC has misapplied the “Hardship Exception.” This argument also fails. Simple
additional financial burdens do not rise to the level of a hardship. It is going to be more
expensive to repair and maintain architecturally historic structures. The added expense of
securing historically accurate materials in the repair of these homes is not, in and of itself,
a hardship. These types of financial burdens exist for all such structures. Mr. Meteiver
stated that the HPC urges the members of the Council to focus on the issues in this
appeal. Mr. Meteiver stated that the Council should find that the HPC had full authority
to take the action that it took and that its action was entirely consistent with the law.
Councilmember Dieter stated that the owners were given an “A Guidebook for South
Bend Indiana’s Chapin Park Local Historic District,” outlining the rules and regulations
and were fully aware and admit that what they want to do is inconsistent with those
regulations. Councilmember Dieter stated that he would be voting to sustain the action of
the HPC.
23
REGULAR MEETING MAY 12, 2008
Councilmember Henry Davis stated that he normally would side with the homeowner.
However, he questioned the sincerity of the homeowner because they did not attend
tonight’s Council Meeting.
Councilmember LaFountain stated that he still has mixed feelings about the appeal. He
noted that a home owner has prior knowledge about what they are signing on for when
you purchase a home in a Historic District. However, if there are issues of energy
efficiency then that also needs to be addressed, especially with fuel costs at an all time
high in the nation.
Councilmember Puzzello stated that the home owners knew what they were getting into
by moving into a Historic District. She advised that she will be voting to sustain the HPC
actions.
Councilmember White advised that she will be voting to sustain the HPC’s action
because the owners were aware of their obligation when they purchased the home.
Councilmember Rouse stated that he is concerned about the energy efficiency for the
home owner and hopes that they can continue to work together with the Historic
Preservation Commission to resolve this issue. Councilmember Rouse stated that with
heating costs going up, it is imperative that the issue be resolved.
Councilmember Varner stated that preservation of the home is within the Historic
Preservation Commission’s jurisdiction. He also noted that he is also concerned with the
home owner’s concerns for energy efficiency and questions, whether or not restoring the
windows would provide that.
Councilmember Oliver Davis stated that he will be voting to sustain the Historic
Preservation Commission’s action.
Councilmember Kirsits stated that he believes that the HPC has the jurisdiction and
believes that it is in the best interest for the home owner to restore and reuse the windows
in place.
Councilmember Dieter made a motion to sustain the Historic Preservation Commission’s
ruling. Councilmember LaFountain seconded the motion which carried by a roll call vote
of nine (9) ayes.
NEW BUSINESS
Councilmember White advised that the Urban Enterprise Association met this past week.
She advised that the Sample Street Complex is approximately 65% occupied.
Councilmember Oliver Davis stated that he attended the Rum Village Neighborhood
Association. He noted that they are excited about the changes that are about to take place
with the demolition of the South Bend Lathe/Studebaker Buildings and the development
that will located in the Studebaker/Oliver Development Area.
Councilmember Rouse stated that he attended the Solid Waste Management Board
meeting. He advised that they are in the process of taking bids on the curbside recycling.
He also noted that they are currently working on the wage structure for staff.
Councilmember Rouse stated that the River Park Parade will take place this Saturday,
May 17, 2008 at 9:00 a.m.
PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR
There was no one present wishing to address the Council at this time.
24
REGULAR MEETING MAY 12, 2008
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the President Timothy Rouse adjourned
the meeting at 8:47 p.m.
ATTEST: ATTEST:
____________________________ ____________________________
John Voorde, City Clerk Timothy Rouse, President
25