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HomeMy WebLinkAbout08-24-2026 Council Meeting MinutesREPORT OF SUB-COMMITTEE ON MINUTES TO THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND: THE SUB-COMMITTEE HAS INSPECTED THE MINUTES OF THE DATE: 08-24-2026 MEETING OF THE COUNCIL AND FOUND THEM TO BE CORRECT. THEREFORE, WE RECOMMEND THE SAME BE APPROVED: 1/.1~-~~ RACHEL TOMAS MORGA APPROVED BY THE COMMON COUNCIL ON: 09-14-2026 ATTEST: I L ______ _ REGULAR MEETING August 24, 2026 Be it remembered that the Common Council of the City of South Bend, Indiana, met in person on Monday, August 24th, 2026, at 7:00 P.M. Council President Canneth Lee called the meeting to order. The invocation was given by Reverend Steven Wedgeworth of Christ Church Anglican, and the Pledge to the Flag was given. Please note the attached link for the meeting recording: https :/ / docs.southbendin.gov/W ebLink/0/ edoc/412684/08-24- 2026%20Common %20Council %20Meeting%20Recording.mp4 ROLL CALL COUNCILMEMBERS PRESENT Canneth Lee Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers Sharon L. McBride Dr. Heidi Beidinger Sherry Bolden-Simpson Sheila Niezgodski Rachel Tomas Morgan Karen L. White COUNCILMEMBERS ABSENT Dr. Oliver Davis OTHERS PRESENT Bianca Tirado Jasmine Jackson Matthew Neal Lari' onna Green Veronica Pitt-Payne Bob Palmer 1st District, President 2nd District, Committee of the Whole 3rd District 4th District 5th District 6th District, Vice President At-Large At-Large At-Large City Clerk Chief Deputy City Clerk Deputy Director of Policy Communications and Marketing Specialist Director of Special Projects Council Attorney Members marked with an asterisk(*) are in virtual attendance via Microsoft Teams. SUB-COMMITTEE ON MINUTES: August 10, 2026 Council President Lee requested reports from the Sub-Committee on Minutes. City Clerk Bianca Tirado stated that the Sub-Committee on Minutes inspected the August 10, 2026, Common Council meeting minutes and recommend they be approved. Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers moved to approve the August 10, 2026, Common Council meeting minutes, which was seconded by Councilmember Sherry Bolden-Simpson and carried via a vote by voice. SPECIAL BUSINESS None. REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICES None. RESOLVE INTO THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE Councilmember Karen L. White moved to resolve into the Committee of the Whole, which was seconded by Council Vice President Sheila Niezgodski and carried via a vote by voice. PUBLIC HEARINGS BILL NO. ·----·----·-·--·-----·--·------··---- REGULAR MEETING August 24, 2026 PUBLIC HEARING ON AN ORDINANCE OF THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA, APPROVING A PETITION OF THE ADVISORY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1737 OBRIEN STREET COUNCILMANIC DISTRICT NO. 1 IN THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council for its second (2 nd) reading. After the second (2 nd) reading, Councilmember Rachel Tomas Morgan stated that Bill No. 47-26 went before the Zoning and Annexation Committee and comes with a favorable recommendation. Mark Dellostritto, Zoning Specialist, with offices on the fifth (5th) floor of City Hall, South Bend, IN 46601 , presented the bill. He stated that this petition was filed by the owner of 173 7 Obrien Street and the neighboring vacant lot. He explained that the petitioner intends to build a stacked duplex on each property utilizing the City's pre-approved building plans. He added that the development will fill in two (2) vacant lots, one ( 1) which has been vacant for at least ten ( 10) years, and one (1) with no history of development. Councilmember Gooden-Rodgers invited the petitioner to speak. Clerk Tirado noted that the petitioner, Victor Castro, is present online but unable to speak due to technical difficulties. Council President Lee stated that the petitioner spoke during the Committee meeting earlier in the day, and the Committee's questions about parking and building orientation were answered. He said this. would be the petitioner's first (1 st) building in South Bend and thanked the petitioner for investing in the First (1 st) District. Councilmember Gooden-Rodgers held the public hearing, and nobody spoke. Council President Lee moved to send Bill No. 47-26 to the Full Council with a favorable recommendation, which was seconded by Council Vice President Niezgodski and carried by a vote of eight (8) ayes with one (1) Councilmember absent. Council President Canneth Lee -Aye Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers -Aye Councilmember Dr. Heidi Beidinger -Aye Councilmember Rachel Tomas Morgan -Aye Councilmember Karen L. White -Aye Council Vice President Sheila Niezgodski -Aye Councilmember Sharon McBride -Aye Councilmember Sherry Bolden-Simpson -Aye Councilmember Dr. Oliver Davis -Absent PUBLIC HEARING ON AN ORDINANCE OF THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA, AMENDING THE ZONING ORDINANCE FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 626 ALLEN STREET AND 630 ALLEN STREET COUNCILMANIC DISTRICT NO. 1 IN THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council for its second (2nd) reading. After the second (2 nd) reading, Councilmember Tomas Morgan stated that Bill No. 50-26 went before the Zoning and Annexation Committee and comes with a favorable recommendation. Mark Dellostritto presented the bill, stating that it is a request to rezone parcels from urban neighborhood two (U2) to urban neighborhood three (U3 ). He said the lots are currently vacant and were previously occupied by single-family homes from 1917 until their demolition in the 2000s or 201 Os. The applicant intends to build a six (6)-unit dwelling using the City's pre-approved six (6)-plex plan, with four ( 4) one (1 )-bedroom units, two (2) two (2)-bedroom units, and parking pads off the rear alley. He noted this would be the first (1 st) time the City's pre-approved six (6)- 2 REGULAR MEETING August 24, 2026 plex design is built. He explained that additional approvals will be required by the state, since buildings with more than four ( 4) units are subject to commercial building code instead of residential building code. He added that the proposed U3 designation provides an appropriate transition in intensity from the neighborhood center (NC) parcels to the south and west, and that the building will match the scale and character of surrounding structures. Tina Patton, Petitioner, 707 Sherman A venue, South Bend, IN 46616, addressed the Council. She described the project as an opportunity to provide six ( 6) families with dignified, safe housing. She noted that the City has already demonstrated its commitment to the project through tax increment financing (TIF) funding and respectfully requested Council approval. Councilmember Bolden-Simpson asked whether the units would be market-rate or mcome- qualified at a certain percent area median income (AMI). Tina Patton replied that the project is affordable housing for households earning up to one hundred percent (100%) AMI, which is approximately fifty-five thousand dollars ($55,000) per year. Council President Lee expressed support for the project, noting it is part of the First (1 st) District. He spoke about recent revitalization in the surrounding area and said that using the City's pre- approved six (6)-plex design will open the door for others to follow. Councilmember Gooden-Rodgers asked how the project came about. Tina Patton explained that her organization, Cross Community, runs a financial literacy program to prepare individuals for homeownership, but many participants are not yet financially ready to purchase a home. She said affordable rentals will provide a "landing pad" where participants can live until they are in a position to own. She also clarified, in response to Councilmember Bolden- Simpson's earlier question, that the apartments will be offered at eighty percent (80%) AMI. She noted that has two (2) projects currently underway, and her other project is for single-family homes at one hundred percent (100%) AMI. Councilmember Gooden-Rodgers held the public hearing, and nobody spoke. Council President Lee moved to send Bill No . 50-26 to the Full Council with a favorable recommendation, which was seconded by Councilmember Bolden-Simpson and carried by a vote of eight (8) ayes with one (1) Councilmember absent. Council President Canneth Lee -Aye Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers -Aye Councilmember Dr. Heidi Beidinger -Aye Councilmember Rachel Tomas Morgan -Aye Councilmember Karen L. White -Aye 51-26 Council Vice President Sheila Niezgodski -Aye Councilmember Sharon McBride -Aye Councilmember Sherry Bolden-Simpson -Aye Councilmember Dr. Oliver Davis -Absent PUBLIC HEARING ON AN ORDINANCE OF THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA, AMENDING CHAPTER 20 OF THE SOUTH BEND MUNICIPAL CODE TO ESTABLISH ARTICLE 14 CONTAINING REGULATIONS REGARDING ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council for its second (2 nd) reading. After the second (2nd) reading, Council Vice President Niezgodski stated that Bill No. 51-26 went before the Personnel and Finance Committee and comes with a favorable recommendation. Jenna Throw, City Attorney, with offices on the sixth (6th) floor of City Hall, South Bend, IN 46601 , presented the bill. She stated that it establishes a new article in the Municipal Code to govern electric vehicle (EV) charging. Currently, the City offers free charging at EV spaces with a two (2)-hour parking limit. She explained that the new framework would preserve the two (2) hours of free access while introducing a fee of three dollars ($3) per hour for any time beyond that initial period. She stated that this rate reflects the cost of electricity, operations, and maintenance, 3 REGULAR MEETING August 24, 2026 and all revenue would be deposited into Fund Two-Hundred-Eleven (211) to directly support the City's EV charging program. The ordinance also requires vehicles in EV spaces to be actively charging and prohibits any vehicle from occupying a space for more than twenty-four (24) continuous hours. She summarized other provisions in the bill, which would restrict privately- owned EV chargers from downtown and commercial right-of-way in order to protect the City's coordinated planning efforts. Alex Bazan, Director of Sustainability, with offices on the fourth ( 4th) floor of City Hall, South Bend, IN 46601 , stated that the ordinance supports the City's goal of encouraging a transition to electric vehicles. He noted the City has seen consistent growth in the usage of its charging stations and overall EV adoption. He said the stations are a great amenity for both residents and visitors. Councilmember Dr. Heidi Beidinger asked how many EV charging stations the City currently has and whether there are plans for future expansion. Alex Bazan replied that the City currently has thirty (30) charging stations. He said there are near- tenn plans for a charging station at the O'Brien Center and a few additional locations downtown. He spoke about the City's longer-term plans to add sta~ions on the west side, south side, and east side, ensuring good geographic distribution across the City. Councilmember Tomas Morgan spoke about working with the Office of Sustainability to encourage the buildout of EV infrastructure. She expressed support for the City's free charging program, noting that it promotes EV adoption and is a welcoming amenity for visitors. She raised a question regarding how long the City intends to continue offering free charging. She asked about app notifications when charging is complete. Alex Bazan confirmed that the apps associated with the City's charging stations generally allow users to track their charging status. He added that most vehicle apps allow drivers to monitor their battery percentage and receive notifications when charging is complete. Council Vice President Niezgodski asked about payment logistics for users who exceed two (2) hours. Alex Bazan confinned that these users would be charged automatically, and the hourly fee would be prorated. He said the fee would apply as long as the space is occupied, even after the vehicle is fully charged. Council Vice President Niezgodski asked for confirmation that any use of EV spaces beyond the free period would cost three dollars ($3) per hour. Alex Bazan confirmed that is correct. Councilmember Gooden-Rodgers held the public hearing, and nobody spoke. Councilmember Tomas Morgan stated that she believes this is good policy for the City moving forward and expressed her full support. Councilmember Tomas Morgan moved to send Bill No. 51-26 to the Full Council with a favorable recommendation, which was seconded by Councilmember Bolden-Simpson and carried by a vote of eight (8) ayes with one (1) Councilmember absent. Council President Canneth Lee -Aye Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers -Aye Councilmember Dr. Heidi Beidinger -Aye Councilmember Rachel Tomas Morgan -Aye Councilmember Karen L. White -Aye 4 Council Vice President Sheila Niezgodski -Aye Councilmember Sharon McBride -Aye Councilmember Sherry Bolden-Simpson -Aye Councilmember Dr. Oliver Davis -Absent PUBLIC HEARING ON AN ORDINANCE OF THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY TO ENTER INTO AND ACCEPT A SECTION 108 LOAN FROM THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND REGULAR MEETING August 24, 2026 URBAN DEVELOPMENT, PLEDGING CERTAIN REVENUES FOR THE REPAYMENT OF SAID LOAN, AND APPROVING OTHER MATTERS IN CONNECTION THEREWITH Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council for its second (2nd) reading. After the second (2nd) reading, Councilmember White stated that Bill No. 54-26 went before the Community Investment Committee and comes with a favorable recommendation. Joe Molnar, Deputy Director of Community Investment, with offices on the fifth (5th) floor of City Hall, South Bend, IN 46601, presented the bill. He noted that Councilmembers have already approved a payment-in-lieu-of-taxes (PILOT) agreement for this project, and the current bill would establish a funding mechanism for the necessary infrastructure work. He described the Western Avenue Transformation District as the site of former dilapidated public housing on the southwest edge of downtown, which is being redeveloped as mixed-income housing. The project is a collaboration between the City, the Housing Authority of South Bend, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County, and The Michaels Organization (TMO). He summarized the project's history, from the demolition of old housing units in 2023 to the completion of the HUD Section 108 loan process this year. He explained how income restrictions will apply to the two-hundred- ten (210) units in phases one-a (la) and one-b (lb) of the project and stated that former residents of the demolished Rabbi Shulman and Monroe Circle buildings will be prioritized to return. He said the new internal street will be named Rabbi Schulman Place, as a nod to the history of the site, and ground-floor units will feature patios to activate the street front. Other features include park space and a childcare facility. Joe Molnar went on to explain the HUD Section 108 loan structure. He said this program allows the City to access future HUD Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds, leverage them for infrastructure, then repay HUD from the CDBG funds they receive annually. He noted that the City receives approximately two-point-three million dollars ($2,300,000) in CDBG funds per year, and if Council approves the loan, twenty-two percent (22%) of the City's CDBG allotment would go toward annual loan repayments. He estimated an interest rate of approximately four- point-one percent ( 4.1 %) at time of closing, which he described as a very favorable rate. He said if the bill passes, the bid for infrastructure work could be awarded tomorrow, and construction would start in thirty (30) to forty-five (45) days. The developer is expected to begin work on the apartment buildings this winter, with full project completion expected by the spring of 2028. He addressed the loan's collateral requirement, stating that repayments would come from the River West TIF in the unlikely event CDBG funds cannot cover the loan. He added that the loan would allow for the immediate reimbursement of over two million dollars ($2,000,000) in City costs and lock in fifty million dollars ($50,000,000) in outside investment. Steve Luecke, Housing Authority of South Bend Board, 1706 West North Shore Drive, South Bend, IN 46617, addressed the Council. He acknowledged that financing this kind of development is complicated. He expressed appreciation for the work of City staff and highlighted the strong partnerships with the County, the City, and TMO. He noted that former residents who wish to return will have priority and described mixed-income housing as good policy that avoids concentrating poverty in a single area. Andrea Keeney, TMO, 118 North Clinton Street, Chicago, IL 60661, expressed excitement to begin construction by the end of the year or early next year. She added that they anticipate an eighteen (18)-month construction period. Councilmember Sharon McBride said she is pleased that former residents who wish to return will have priority for the new units. She asked whether the infrastructure improvements would extend to the area directly in front of Sweet Home Church. Joe Molnar confirmed that the project will include reconstruction of the entire road and sidewalks in that area. Councilmember Bolden-Simpson expressed enthusiasm for the mixed-income component and thanked the presenters. She asked whether the front porches would be wheelchair accessible. 5 REGULAR MEETING August 24, 2026 Andrea Keeney replied that her team is working to comply with accessibility requirements, which will be more difficult for those specific units. She noted that there is an elevator building within the development to accommodate accessible units. Councilmember Bolden-Simpson clarified that her concern was specifically about porch steps and asked about ramp options. Andrea Keeney confirmed that there will be options throughout the site that include ramps rather than steps, noting that her team discussed this last week. Councilmember Tomas Morgan asked about the possibility of paying off the loan early. Joe Molnar said the City specifically asked HUD about early repayment, which may make financial sense toward the end of the loan term. He stated that their current plan is to carry the loan for the full twenty (20) year tenn, since the interest rate is low. He said the City can re-evaluate if financial conditions change. Councilmember Gooden-Rodgers asked if income-restricted and market-rate units would be mixed throughout the complex. Andrea Keeney confinned that all unit types will be fully mixed throughout the development. She said residents will not be able to distinguish one (1) unit type from another. Councilmember Dr. Beidinger asked if the project team considered climate resilience features. Joe Molnar said the walkable downtown location and on-site childcare facility will help reduce residents' car dependency. He emphasized that green space was a major priority in the design and said they will be building new stonnwater infrastructure. Councilmember Dr. Beidinger asked about providing alternative shade options while newly- planted trees mature. Andrea Keeney confirmed that they will provide shaded areas within the park space. Council President Lee expressed excitement and strong support for the project. Councilmember Gooden-Rodgers held the public hearing, and nobody spoke. Councilmember Bolden-Simpson moved to send Bill No. 54-26 to the Full Council with a favorable recommendation, which was seconded by Council President Lee and carried by a vote of eight (8) ayes with one (1) Councilmember absent. Council President Canneth Lee -Aye Council Vice President Sheila Niezgodski -Aye Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers -Aye Councilmember Sharon McBride -Aye Councilmember Dr. Heidi Beidinger -Aye Councilmember Sherry Bolden-Simpson -Aye Councilmember Rachel Tomas Morgan -Aye Councilmember Dr. Oliver Davis -Absent Councilmember Karen L. White -Aye RISE AND REPORT Council Vice President Niezgodski moved to rise from the Committee of the Whole and report back to the Full Council, which was seconded by Councilmember Tomas Morgan and carried via a vote by voice. REGULAR MEETING RECONVENED Council President Lee stated that the Full Council is now back in session. This portion of the meeting is where bills are given a third (3 rd) reading and action is taken regarding bills that were heard during the Committee of the Whole. BILLS ON THE THIRD READING BILL NO. 47-26 6 THIRD READING ON AN ORDINANCE OF THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH REGULAR MEETING August 24, 2026 BEND, INDIANA, APPROVING A PETITION OF THE ADVISORY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1737 OBRIEN STREET COUNCILMANIC DISTRICT NO. 1 IN THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council for its third (3 rd) reading. After the third (3 rd) reading, Council President Lee requested a committee report. Councilmember Gooden-Rodgers stated that Bill No. 47-26 was heard in the Committee of the Whole and comes to the Full Council with a favorable recommendation. Council Vice President Niezgodski moved for the passage of Bill No. 47-26, which was seconded by Councilmember White and carried by a vote of eight (8) ayes with one (1) Councilmember absent. Council President Canneth Lee -Aye Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers -Aye Councilmember Dr. Heidi Beidinger -Aye Councilmember Rachel Tomas Morgan -Aye Councilmember Karen L. White -Aye Council Vice President Sheila Niezgodski -Aye Councilmember Sharon McBride -Aye Councilmember Sherry Bolden-Simpson -Aye Councilmember Dr. Oliver Davis -Absent THIRD READING ON AN ORDINANCE OF THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA, AMENDING THE ZONING ORDINANCE FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 626 ALLEN STREET AND 630 ALLEN STREET COUNCILMANIC DISTRICT NO. 1 IN THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council for its third (3 rd) reading. After the third (3 rd) reading, Council President Lee requested a committee report. Councilmember Gooden-Rodgers stated that Bill No. 50-26 was heard in the Committee of the Whole and comes to the Full Council with a favorable recommendation. Councilmember McBride moved for the passage of Bill No. 50-26, which was seconded by Councilmember Bolden-Simpson and carried by a vote of eight (8) ayes with one (1) Councilmember absent. Council President Canneth Lee -Aye Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers -Aye Councilmember Dr. Heidi Beidinger -Aye Councilmember Rachel Tomas Morgan -Aye Councilmember Karen L. White -Aye 51-26 Council Vice President Sheila Niezgodski -Aye Councilmember Sharon McBride -Aye Councilmember Sherry Bolden-Simpson -Aye Councilmember Dr. Oliver Davis -Absent THIRD READING ON AN ORDINANCE OF THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA, AMENDING CHAPTER 20 OF THE SOUTH BEND MUNICIPAL CODE TO ESTABLISH ARTICLE 14 CONTAINING REGULATIONS REGARDING ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council for its third (3 rd) reading. After the third (3 rd) reading, Council President Lee requested a committee report. Councilmember Gooden-Rodgers stated that Bill No. 51-26 was heard in the Committee of the Whole and comes to the Full Council with a favorable recommendation. 7 REGULAR MEETING August 24, 2026 Council Vice President Niezgodski moved for the passage of Bill No. 51 -26, which was seconded by Councilmember Tomas Morgan and carried by a vote of eight (8) ayes with one (1) Councilmember absent. Council President Canneth Lee -Aye Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers -Aye Councilmember Dr. Heidi Beidinger -Aye Councilmember Rachel Tomas Morgan -Aye Councilmember Karen L. White -Aye Council Vice President Sheila Niezgodski -Aye Councilmember Sharon McBride -Aye Councilmember Sherry Bolden-Simpson -Aye Councilmember Dr. Oliver Davis -Absent THIRD READING ON AN ORDINANCE OF THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY TO ENTER INTO AND ACCEPT A SECTION 108 LOAN FROM THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, PLEDGING CERTAIN REVENUES FOR THE REPAYMENT OF SAID LOAN, AND APPROVING OTHER MATTERS IN CONNECTION THEREWITH Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council for its third (3 rd) reading. After the third (3 rd) reading, Council President Lee requested a committee report. Councilmember Gooden-Rodgers stated that Bill No. 54-26 was heard in the Committee of the Whole and comes to the Full Council with a favorable recommendation. Councilmember Tomas Morgan moved for the passage of Bill No. 54-26, which was seconded by Councilmember McBride and carried by a vote of eight (8) ayes with one (1) Councilmember absent. Council President Canneth Lee -Aye Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers -Aye Councilmember Dr. Heidi Beidinger -Aye Councilmember Rachel Tomas Morgan -Aye Councilmember Karen L. White -Aye RESOLUTIONS BILL NO. Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council. Council Vice President Sheila Niezgodski -Aye Councilmember Sharon McBride -Aye Councilmember Sherry Bolden-Simpson -Aye Councilmember Dr. Oliver Davis -Absent A RESOLUTION ADOPTION OF CONFIRMING THE A DECLARATORY RESOLUTION DESIGNATING CERTAIN AREAS WITHIN THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA, COMMONLY KNOWN AS 3605 WEST CLEVELAND ROAD, SOUTH BEND, IN 46628 AN ECONOMIC REVITALIZATION AREA FOR PURPOSES OF A FIVE-YEAR (5) PERSONAL PROPERTY TAX ABATEMENT FOR TENNECO INC. After the reading, Councilmember White stated that Bill No. 26-24 went before the Community Investment Committee and comes to the Full Council with a favorable recommendation. Erik Glavich, Director of Growth and Opportunity, with offices on the fifth (5th) floor of City Hall, South Bend, IN 46601 , presented the bill. He stated that this is the final step in granting a five ( 5)- year personal property tax abatement to Tenneco, Inc., an auto supplier that has operated in the City of South Bend for approximately forty ( 40) years. He explained that Tenneco is investing in 8 REGULAR MEETING August 24, 2026 new equipment that will allow them to expand into a new market and create eighty (80) new jobs. He shared a breakdown of projected future tax revenues. He said approximately four-hundred- fifty-thousand dollars ($450,000) in taxes would be abated over the five (5)-year term, but the City would receive one hundred seventy thousand dollars ($170,000) in new tax revenue that would not exist without the investment. Allen Sullivan, Tenneco Inc., 3605 West Cleveland Road, South Bend, IN 46628, spoke about a recent customer visit at Tenneco's South Bend facility. He said the customer was impressed by the facility's central location and strong local workforce. He explained that this customer has struggled to find qualified welders for their plant in Mexico, while Tenneco recently recruited seventeen (17) highly capable welders from a pool of twenty-two (22) local candidates. Council President Lee held the public hearing, and nobody spoke. Councilmember Bolden-Simpson moved for the passage of Bill No. 26-24, which was seconded by Councilmember Gooden-Rodgers and carried by a vote of eight (8) ayes with one (1) Councilmember absent. Council President Canneth Lee -Aye Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers -Aye Councilmember Dr. Heidi Beidinger -Aye Councilmember Rachel Tomas Morgan -Aye Councilmember Karen L. White -Aye 26-25 Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council. Council Vice President Sheila Niezgodski -Aye Councilmember Sharon McBride -Aye Councilmember Sherry Bolden-Simpson -Aye Councilmember Dr. Oliver Davis -Absent A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE ADOPTION OF A DECLARATORY RESOLUTION DESIGNATING CERTAIN AREAS WITHIN THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA, COMMONLY KNOWN AS V/L CHET WAGGONER COURT AN ECONOMIC REVITALIZATION AREA FOR PURPOSES OF AN EIGHT-YEAR (8) REAL PROPERTY TAX ABATEMENT FOR GLC MID-BAY, LLC After the reading, Councilmember White stated that Bill No. 26-25 went before the Community Investment Committee and comes to the Full Council with a favorable recommendation. Erik Glavich presented the bill, which would authorize an eight (8)-year real property tax abatement for an eight-point-eight million dollar ($8,800,000) speculative industrial warehouse project by Great Lakes Capital (GLC). He explained that the building would provide flexible rental space for multiple small-scale industrial tenants. He acknowledged that it is difficult to predict the exact number of jobs generated by speculative projects but noted that GLC has a strong track record of providing buildings that local businesses use. He estimated that one-point-one to one- point-two million dollars ($1,100,000 -$1,200,000) in property taxes would be abated over the eight (8)-year term, and one-point-three million dollars ($1,300,000) in new taxes would be paid. He noted that the abatement would directly benefit the small employers leasing the space, since tenants are responsible for property taxes. Ethan Fowler, GLC Mid-Bay LLC, 7410 Aspect Drive, Granger, IN 46530, addressed the Council. He reiterated that the building is designed to be flexible to accommodate small to mid-sized businesses, and that the abatement directly helps offset occupancy costs for potential tenants. Council President Lee held the public hearing, and nobody spoke. Councilmember Gooden-Rodgers moved for the passage of Bill No. 26-25, which was seconded by Councilmember McBride and carried by a vote of eight (8) ayes with one (1) Councilmember absent. Council President Canneth Lee -Aye Council Vice President Sheila Niezgodski -Aye Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers -Aye Councilmember Sharon McBride -Aye Councilmember Dr. Heidi Beidinger -Aye Councilmember Sherry Bolden-Simpson -Aye 9 REGULAR MEETING Councilmember Rachel Tomas Morgan -Aye Councilmember Karen L. White -Aye 26-27 Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council. August 24, 2026 Councilmember Dr. Oliver Davis -Absent A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA, APPROVING THE PURCHASE OF A PORTION OF REAL PROPERTY LOCATED AT IN PROXIMITY TO 309 SOUTH TAYLOR STREET, SOUTH BEND, INDIANA After the reading, Councilmember White stated that Bill No. 26-27 went before the Community Investment Committee and comes to the Full Council with a favorable recommendation. Michael Schmidt, Assistant City Attorney, with offices on the sixth (6 th) floor of City Hall, South Bend, IN 46601 , presented the bill. He said the City needs to acquire this right-of-way for the Western A venue Transformation District project. Since the purchase price is expected to exceed twenty-five-thousand dollars ($25,000), Council authorization is required. Council President Lee held the public hearing, and nobody spoke. Councilmember McBride moved for the passage of Bill No . 26-27, which was seconded by Councilmember Gooden-Rodgers and carried by a vote of eight (8) ayes with one (1) Councilmember absent. Council President Canneth Lee -Aye Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers -Aye Councilmember Dr. Heidi Beidinger -Aye Councilmember Rachel Tomas Morgan -Aye Councilmember Karen L. White -Aye 26-28 Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council. Council Vice President Sheila Niezgodski -Aye Councilmember Sharon McBride -Aye Councilmember Sherry Bolden-Simpson -Aye Councilmember Dr. Oliver Davis -Absent A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA, APPROVING THE PURCHASE OF REAL PROPERTY LOCATED AT 821 HARRISON STREET, SOUTH BEND, INDIANA 46616 AND 1819 BERGAN STREET, SOUTH BEND, INDIANA 46628 After the reading, Councilmember White stated that Bill No. 26-28 went before the Community Investment Committee and comes to the Full Council with a favorable recommendation. Attorney Schmidt presented the bill. He said the City intends to purchase the property, pending Council approval, and will solicit two (2) appraisals before making an offer. He said the property is in an area of town where the City would like to focus some attention. Council President Lee held the public hearing, and nobody spoke. Council Vice President Niezgodski moved for the passage of Bill No. 26-28, which was seconded by Councilmember Tomas Morgan and carried by a vote of eight (8) ayes with one (1) Councilmember absent. Council President Canneth Lee -Aye Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers -Aye Councilmember Dr. Heidi Beidinger -Aye Councilmember Rachel Tomas Morgan -Aye Councilmember Karen L. White -Aye 26-29 Council Vice President Sheila Niezgodski -Aye Councilmember Sharon McBride -Aye Councilmember Sherry Bolden-Simpson -Aye Councilmember Dr. Oliver Davis -Absent A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA, REGULAR MEETING Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council. August 24, 2026 APPOINTING AN AGENT/NEGOTIATOR AND AN ADVISORY COMMON COUNCIL NEGOTIATING TEAM TO REPRESENT THE COMMON COUNCIL FOR THE UPCOMING FIRE DEPARTMENT NEGOTIATIONS After the reading, Council Vice President Niezgodski stated that Bill No. 26-29 went before the Personnel and Finance Committee and comes to the Full Council with a favorable recommendation. Council President Lee presented the bill. He explained that current Police and Fire contracts expire on December 31, 2026, and new contracts must be negotiated. The resolution names Council Attorney Bob Palmer as chief negotiator, with Council President Lee and Councilmember Gooden- Rodgers serving as the Council advisory team. Council Vice President Niezgodski moved for the passage of Bill No. 26-29, which was seconded by Councilmember Dr. Beidinger and carried by a vote of eight (8) ayes with one (1) Councilmember absent. Council President Canneth Lee -Aye Councilmember Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers -Aye Councilmember Dr. Heidi Beidinger -Aye Councilmember Rachel Tomas Morgan -Aye Councilmember Karen L. White -Aye BILLS ON THE FIRST READING BILL NO. Council Vice President Sheila Niezgodski -Aye Councilmember Sharon McBride -Aye Councilmember Sherry Bolden-Simpson -Aye Councilmember Dr. Oliver Davis -Absent FIRST READING ON AN ORDINANCE OF THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA, APPROVING A PETITION OF THE ADVISORY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1245 CORBY BOULEY ARD COUNCILMANIC DISTRICT NO. 4 IN THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council for its first (1 st) reading. Council President Lee entertained a motion to send Bill No. 55-26 to the Board of Zoning Appeals for public hearing on September 8, 2026, and to the Zoning and Annexation Committee for public hearing and third (3 rd) reading on September 14, 2026. Council Vice President Niezgodski moved to send Bill No. 55-26 to the Board of Zoning Appeals for public hearing on September 8, 2026, and to the Zoning and Annexation Committee for public hearing and third (3rd) reading on September 14, 2026. The motion was seconded by Councilmember McBride and carried via a vote by voice. FIRST READING ON AN ORDINANCE OF THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA, APPROVING A PETITION OF THE ADVISORY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1246 HOW ARD STREET COUNCILMANIC DISTRICT NO. 4 IN THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council for its first (1 st) reading. 11 i ·---· ---- REGULAR MEETING August 24, 2026 Council President Lee entertained a motion to send Bill No. 56-26 to the Board of Zoning Appeals for public hearing on September 8, 2026, and to the Zoning and Annexation Committee for public hearing and third (3 rd) reading on September 14, 2026. Council Vice President Niezgodski moved to send Bill No . 56-26 to the Board of Zoning Appeals for public hearing on September 8, 2026, and to the Zoning and Annexation Committee for public hearing and third (3 rd) reading on September 14, 2026. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Gooden-Rodgers and carried via a vote by voice. FIRST READING ON AN ORDINANCE OF THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA, APPROVING A ,PETITION OF THE ADVISORY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT LOT 1 7 AS SHOWN ON THE NORTH SUNNYSIDE SECOND ADDITION RECORDED PLAT COUNCILMANIC DISTRICT NO. 4 IN THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council for its first (1 st) reading. Council President Lee entertained a motion to send Bill No. 5 7-26 to the Board of Zoning Appeals for public hearing on September 8, 2026, and to the Zoning and Annexation Committee for public hearing and third (3 rd) reading on September 14, 2026. Council Vice President Niezgodski moved to send Bill No. 57-26 to the Board of Zoning Appeals for public hearing on September 8, 2026, and to the Zoning and Annexation Committee for public hearing and third (3 rd) reading on September 14, 2026. The motion was seconded by Councilmember McBride and carried via a vote by voice. 58-26 FIRST READING ON AN ORDINANCE OF THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA, ANNEXING TO AND BRINGING WITHIN THE CITY LIMITS OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA, AND AMENDING THE ZONING ORDINANCE FOR PROPERTY LOCATED IN CENTRE TOWNSHIP, CONTIGUOUS THEREWITH; COUNCILMANIC DISTRICT NO. 5, FOR 20061 DICE STREET & 60555 MAIN STREET, SOUTH BEND, INDIANA Clerk Tirado read the bill to the Council for its first (1 st) reading. Council President Lee entertained a motion to send Bill No. 58-26 to the Plan Commission for public hearing on September 21, 2026, to the Zoning and Annexation Committee for public hearing and second (2nd) reading on October 26, 2026, and to the Full Council for third (3 rd) reading on November 9, 2026. Council Vice President Niezgodski moved to send Bill No. 58-26 to the Plan Commission for public hearing on September 21, 2026, to the Zoning and Annexation Committee for public hearing and second (2nd) reading on October 26, 2026, and to the Full Council for third (3 rd) reading on November 9, 2026. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Gooden-Rodgers and carried via a vote by voice. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Council Vice President Niezgodski gave a reminder for the upcoming budget hearings on September 2 and September 3. She encouraged Councilmembers to reach out to her or Clerk Tirado with any budget questions. She thanked Councilmember Bolden-Simpson for holding an informative Utilities Committee meeting. She noted that Jeff Rea of the South Bend Regional Chamber of Commerce offered to present another perspective on data centers at a follow up meeting. 12 REGULAR MEETING August 24, 2026 Council President Lee thanked Councilmember Bolden-Simpson for including EPA representatives in the recent Utilities Committee meeting. He said their comments helped clear up misinformation in the community regarding the status of LaSalle Park. Councilmember Bolden-Simpson replied that it was not necessarily misinformation, but confusion due to a lack of communication. She said the EPA presentation helped clarify what many residents did not know. She noted that the EPA will continue to monitor the site and review existing data against new guidelines for lead safe levels. Council President Lee addressed resident concerns about jimsonweed from the previous Council meeting. He stated that the Department of Public Works is aware of the issue and they are working to address it. Clerk Tirado echoed Council Vice President Niezgodski's remarks about budget season, emphasizing that September will be a busy month with several lengthy meetings each week. She asked Councilmembers to pay attention to email communication from the Clerk's Office and stated that notices for the first two (2) budget meetings will go out tomorrow. She asked that Councilmembers reach out to her before scheduling any additional committee meetings to avoid scheduling conflicts and ensure adequate staff support. Councilmember Bolden-Simpson acknowledged the Clerk's Office staff and thanked them for helping coordinate the recent Utilities Committee meeting. Council President Lee echoed Vice President Niezgodski and Clerk Tirado' s remarks about the importance of budget season. He encouraged all Councilmembers to attend budget hearings so that everyone is fully informed about all City departments. He encouraged ongoing communication with the Clerk's Office. NEW BUSINESS Council President Lee announced that the Indiana Black Caucus, Local Five (5), will be visiting on Saturday from 12:00 P.M. to 2:00 P.M. He asked Clerk Tirado to send Councilmembers the information. Clerk Tirado confirmed that she would share the information with Councilmembers. Council President Lee acknowledged the ongoing power outage affecting Lake County and Gary, Indiana, noting that those communities have gone nearly twelve (12) days without power. He spoke about ongoing relief efforts and encouraged Councilmembers to reach out to him if they want to help. PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR Council President Lee held privilege of the floor, and nobody spoke. ADJOURNMENT Council President Lee adjourned the meeting at 8:40 P.M. 13