06-13-05 Zoning & Annexation - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mr. Nemeth noted that Hope Rescue and the Homeless Shelter are rejecting these persons. Sharon Kendall noted that she just recently heard of this request. She stated that the downtown is a mix of urban, residential and retail; and noting that such an operation could present issues. Mr. Mullen stated that the building is current vacant. Council Member Pn7zello stated that the individuals are now in the downtown and going into restaurants. She stated that she sees the need for such services. Mr. Baxter noted that their would be volunteers at the Main Street Drop-In Center. Margaret Pfeil of 1126 West Washington stated that she is a Catholic Worker. Their operation is grounded in personalism, noting that persons grow stronger when they know people. She stated that their services are predicated on relationality and that they hope to disarm violence. Dr. Varner noted that there are many good services serving the needs in the former Ries building and at the Homeless Shelter and Hope Rescue Mission. If the operation is to be a drop-in center would such a facility make it too easy to take advantage of the system. Are there any assurances that they will not be in the downtown? Mr. Baxter stated that at any one time there may be 30-40 people. They are not a social service and would not be attracting persons from out of town. Following discussion, Council Member Rouse made a motion, seconded by Council Member Deiter that Bill No. 05-66 be sent to the Council without recommendation. The motion passed. Council Member White asked what it would take to address the concerns raised. Council President Pfeifer voiced concern about the people who are running it since they do not take responsibility for the people they serve. She stated that she wants the West Washington operations closed. She added that they do not respect what neighbors want and operate in violation of the city's zoning laws. Council Member Puzzello stated that she would like more information on the alleged illegal operations on West Washington which apparently have been running for over a year. Mr. Baxter stated that they got an earful when they went to the neighborhood meeting. They have cut back on the numbers at West Washington and are working with the City Administration. Council Member White stated that she would like clarity from the Legal Department on what has been done with regard to West Washington, since she sees them as separate projects. She stated that it appears that the legal issues are unresolved. Aladean DeRose, Chief Assistant City Attorney stated that Ann Carol Nash is out of town until June 20,2005. John Livingston is taking over for her. June 13,2005 Zoning and Annexation Committee of the 2005 South Bend Common Council -page 3-