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2011 Annual Report of the Zoning and Annexation Committee — page 2 <br />Zoning and Annexation Brochure: <br />Our Committee continued to utilize zoning brochure prepared in conjunction with the Council Attorney. <br />The brochure has been an effective tool for the public on the following topics: <br />Annexations <br />Written Fiscal Plans <br />Rezonings Special Exceptions <br />Historic Landmarks and Districts <br />References to the governing local regulations codified in Chapter 21 of the South Bend Municipal Code; <br />and also provides references to the governing state laws in the Indiana Code. <br />Annexations: <br />I believe that there are many items which should be addressed to improve our local annexation <br />procedures. I would recommend consideration of the following: <br />1. That in January of each year, the Zoning and Annexation Committee be presented with the <br />City Administration's goals and objectives for the upcoming calendar year with regard to <br />proposed annexations. <br />2. That at the Z & A Committee meeting addressed in # 1 above, that a map of the City of South <br />Bend depicting all of the annexations approved for the prior year be clearly indicated and <br />shared with the Committee for review and discussion. <br />3. That when a "Fiscal Plan" is proposed with an accompanying Resolution for Council adoption, <br />that the projected costs for police and fire services [including the formula used in calculated <br />the anticipated costs] be clearly addressed. This has been an ongoing point of concern of both <br />Council President Dieter and myself that too often the projected costs do not realistically <br />address the actual costs of such public safety services. <br />Improving Reporting Mechanisms: <br />An annual written report from the Building Commissioner which addresses among other things: <br />A summary of compliance and enforcement efforts for the prior year <br />Any proposed changes which may be contemplated to help improve the city's zoning ordinance: <br />It has been truly been a pleasure to serve as Chairperson of the Zoning and Annexation and overseeing <br />land use decisions for the City of South Bend. Thank you. <br />Respect s;bmitt <br />Al "Buddy" Kirsits, airpe s <br />Zoning and Annexation Committee <br />cc: John Byorni, Area Plan Executive Director <br />Chuck Bulot, Building Commissioner <br />