07-25-05 Community & Economic Development

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Mr. Schaffer reviewed his report dated July 19, 2005 (copy attached) noting that the petitioner proposes to build a single-family residence at the locations The report concluded that the petitioner meets the requirements for a five year residential tax abatement under Section 2-77.1 of the South Bend Municipal Code addressing single-family real property abatements. Raymond E. VanWynsberghe of Garden Homes, Inc. (Limited POA attached) made the formal presentation. He noted that the two (2) homes will have approximately 1,036 square feet with a market value each of approximately$100,000. Kathleen Petczak of 901 West Byran spoke against the abatement request noting that 46% of the properties in Portage Township have received tax abatement. Council Member Puzzello noted that she would be happy to provide Ms. Petczak with a Committee brochure which details the tax abatement process and that the petitioner will be paying taxes,but at a lower amount for the five year period in question. Council Member Kuspa made a motion, seconded by Council Member Kelly that Bill No. 05-93 be recommended favorably to Council. The motion passed. Council Member Puzzello noted that a presenter was now present for Bill No. 05-91. She then called for a report from Mr. Schaffer on Bill No. 05-91 which is a ten (10)year real property tax abatement reconfirming resolution for Axelberg & Axelberg, LLC for the property located at 2025 Main Street. Mr. Schaffer reviewed his report dated July 19, 2005 (copy attached). which detailed among other things that a Declaratory Resolution was previously adopted and that a Confirmation Resolution was adopted on July 28, 2003 (Resolution No. 3212-03). The report noted that the petitioner is requested an extension of the 10-year designation period. Jeff McGowan of Kruggel, Lawton & Company, LLC with offices in downtown South Bend made the formal presentation. He stated that due to problems scheduling the masonry contractors,the project has fallen behind schedule and will not be completed by July 28, 2005 as originally anticipated. The are asking for an extension so that the project could be completed within the next several months. Dr. Varner noted that they had done a project on Broadway and Main Street and had done a super job. Council Member Kelly made a motion, seconded by Council Member Kuspa that Bill No. 05-91 be recommended favorably to Council. The motion passed. Council Member Puzzello inquired whether any one was present for formally present Bill No. 05-94 which is a five (5)year residential real property tax abatement request of Marvin L. Ward for the property located at 3230 Topsfield Road. The Council Attorney suggested that the Committee Chairperson call the petitioner's name three times. Council Member Puzzello then called Marvin L. Ward three (3) times and no one July 25,2005 Community and Economic Development Committee Meeting Minutes -page 2-