03-27-17 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

REGULAR MEETING MARCH 27, 2017 Councilmember Davis stated the size of the problem was frightening. He stated that asking for another meeting to discuss the matter is not irresponsible but necessary to clear things up so that the City, in the future, does not have to reverse decisions made now. He added that he would like to see the Mayor speak on the water problem at the State of the City Address before the Council voted on it. Councilmember Gavin Ferlic thanked the Council and Administration for exploring the use of TIF funds. Councilmember Ferlic stated that he advocates for a vote tonight and that he would continue to advocate for the use of TIF funds for infrastructural improvement in the future. Councilmember Dr. David Varner stated he does not think that South Bend should aspire to be one of the cities with the highest water rate, as that would put it at a disadvantage. Councilmember Dr. Varner stated, I don't want to see the beginnings of a process which makes us the equivalent of some of the cities listed. He stated that he is not sure that rates would be able to be increased again to cover the $66,000,000 shortfall after the proposed plan, and stated that there would probably need to be a use of TIF funds. As a member of the Redevelopment Commission, he stated that he has and will advocate for the use of TIF funds for infrastructural improvement. He stated that regardless of when the votes take place, he agrees with those who state that some improvements can be made to how TIF dollars are spent in the long term. He stated, But I also agree that there needs to be an action by the Redevelopment Commission to take to the IURC which demonstrates that, in fact, there has been a commitment of X number of dollars, whatever that turns out to be. Councilmember Jo M. Broden stated, This is needed. It's well documented. Councilmember Broden stated that she is a convert to the use of TIF funds for infrastructure. She stated that she has concerns about the use of TIF funds, but that she understands the arguments in favor of it. She commended the Council and recognized the excellence of Mr. Horvath's staff. Councilmember Randy Kelly thanked Mr. Horvath for his cooperation during the construction of this bill and stated that it was time to have the courage to vote on it. Councilmember Regina Williams- Preston stated, Courage is important, but so is wisdom. Councilmember Williams- Preston stated that April 10th, 2017 is not too far away, and that she would like to see letters of commitment from the Redevelopment Commission. Given the three - hundred (300) day process that is required, she stated that she wants to get the decision right the first time, as it would make the process even longer if the request is denied by the IURC. She stated, I want to see, at the State of the City Address, the Mayor talking to the people and be a champion of this, because I think they need to see that he is a leader on this, that he is also asking for a water rate increase from the people who voted him in. Not only do we need this water rate increase, but I would also like a pledge from him to say yes, as the leader of this community; as the Mayor. Councilmember Oliver Davis made a motion to table Substitute Bill No. 66 -16 until April 10, 2017. Councilmember Dr. David Varner seconded the motion which failed by roll call vote of four (4) ayes and five (5) nays (Councilmembers Randy Kelly, Jo M. Broden, John Voorde, Gavin Ferlic, and Tim Scott). Councilmember Randy Kelly made a motion to send Substitute Bill No. 66 -16 to the full Council with a favorable recommendation. Councilmember John Voorde seconded the motion which carried by a roll call vote of five (5) ayes and four (4) nays (Councilmembers Regina Williams - Preston, Dr. David Varner, Oliver Davis, and Karen White). RISE AND REPORT Councilmember Karen White made a motion to rise and report to full Council. Councilmember Tim Scott seconded the motion which carried by a voice vote of nine (9) ayes. REGULAR MEETING RECONVENED 18