 November 27, 2017, County-City Building, 4th Floor Councilpersons Present: All 68-17 - 403 S. Parry Street to rezone the property from SF2 Single Family and Two family to Light Industrial District to allow for a storage lot. Neighbors came out in support of the change since Steve Henry, of the Robert Henry Co, spoke with them and they liked the idea of a privacy fence and additional greenery. The plan is eventually to build townhomes on it, so this was described as temporary. PASSED 70-17 - Rezoning NE Corner of Niles Ave and Cedar Street for a 102 space parking lot. Change from Mixed Use to CBD. This is a parking lot for Beacon Health System to accomodate more of their 175 administrative employees on Niles Ave. They had considered permeable concrete pavers (GREEN option) but have opted for the less green option of putting in water runoff tank underground. PASSED 71-17 - 1032 E. Wayne Street, SW corner of E. Wayne and Eddy Street, from SF2 Single Family and Two Family District to Mixed Use to put an office with 2nd Story Residential. This is designated as a Historical Building. PASSED 80-17 - The City of South Bend will be taking over the Historic Preservation Commission which is currently part of the County and they will be placed in the City's Community Investment Department. The budget part of this already passed. Concern about this arrangement was that HPC will have Community Development as their bosses, some believe will dilute the effectiveness of the HPC. In the past, HPC often held CDI to task. This concern was expressed by Jo Broden who voted against the "Interlocal Agreement" proposed by the City. At this point, the County will get 300 hours of HPC service billed at $37.50 per hour to cover 74 landmarks in a year. HPC says this normally would take 15 mos, so they feel they will short change some of the historic properties outside the City that are in the County. There are currently 4 bodies to decide: Mayor of SB, County Council with 2 representatives, SB Common Council (City) with 2 representatives and the County Commissioners. Dr. Mueller was impatient with Ms. Broden and Mr. Davis saying there is no time to address their concerns by the end of the year. Meeting timing was discussed among the Council members and December did offer meeting time for all involved. Dr. Mueller repeated his desire to vote and not have further discussion. The City said they were unable to come up with the original Interlocal agreement for the Council members review. Dr. Mueller dismissed concerns that the County even cares about being part of this process. He said in multiple discussions they were not interested. Ms. Broden pointed out this agreement is important since it is grandfathered in before the Indiana State agreements and is better. With the passing of this, there is a loss of power in decisions for the HPC and now the SB Community Development will be able to override any decisions not to their liking. Joe Molnar, who works in the City Clerk's office and has served on the HPC for a year and a half, thinks this will be excellent. This PASSED. Some did not vote and Ms. Broden voted against it. (This was a lengthy discussion at this meeting.) 17-76 - Resolution to make Jefferson Blvd and Main Steet an economic revitalization area for 6 years for 100% TAX ABATEMENT ($1,296,000 tax income loss) for River Park Leasing Corporation. $9M investment building 6 story, 38K sq ft Office/Retail Space. City sold the land for $50K. Expected jobs: 15 full-time jobs with annual payroll of $750K, mix of jobs from tenants. Lot 260AA, Doc# 1308726, Key# 018-3007-0231 Both Gavin Ferlic and Tim Scott favor "Agressive Abatement" which gives business NO TAXES FOR MULTIPLE YEARS. Mr. Ferlic refers to this as "Free Money" since it doesn't use TIF money. He sights it is "risk free". They did not independently reassess the value of the property over $50K saying that it would take too much time and assessments would vary too much so they decided internally $50K would be adequate explained Dan Buckenmeyer of Community Development. Dr. Varner says he is not comfortable giving business a free ride with absolutely no taxes for many years. NOTE: There are no requirements on these abatements to give taxpayers a better building. If these buildings were required to be a minimum of LEED Certified Silver, we would be buildling for future generations in a positive and healthy way. We could learn from the taxpayer having spent millions on buildings that have major issues as they age. Council President Tim Scott was not interested in hearing my comments on this. Citizens suggesting ways to make the City and processes better need to be heard. I encourage other Citizens to show up and voice their concerns. 81-17 - Budget Transfer of funds - Very standard NOTE: There was a $16,200 increase for SBACC (Animal Control) due to increased animal intake. Prevention with "Chip and Tag" programs could reduce this cost since animals would not be sent to the Shelter. 82-17 - Appropriating Additional Funds: $49,745 FROM CONSOLIDATED BUILDING FUND—CODE ENFORCEMENT (#600), $1,500 FROM WATER WORKS DEPOSIT FUND (#624), $1,000 FROM WATER WORKS SINKING FUND (#625), $4,500 FROM WATER WORKS DEBT RESERVE O&M (#629), $30,000 FROM SEWAGE WORKS O&M RESERVE (#643), AND $148,300 FROM CENTURY CENTER (# 670). (Caps because copied from PDF, not for emphasis) 83-17 - Appropriating Additional Funds: $125,000 FROM DCI GRANT FUND (#212), $100,000 FROM STATE SEIZED DRUG MONEY (#216), $250,000 FROM LIABILITY INSURANCE FUND (#226), $49,000 FROM COVELESKI STADIUM (#401), $955,670 FROM VEHICLE-EQUIPMENT LEASING (#750), $22,500,000 FROM EDDY ST COMMONS CAPITAL (#759), AND $2,500,000 FROM EDDY ST COMMONS DEBT SERVICE FUND (#760). (Caps because copied from PDF, not for emphasis, although the last 2 items are quite large) 87-14 - Establish 3 new FUNDS: MORRIS PERFORMING ARTS CENTER SELF-PROMOTED EVENTS FUND (274) (Use tax $ to pay performances to come to SB and promote them in media) PARENTAL LEAVE FUND (714) (New HR Policy to give parents funded leave) 2017 PARKS BOND FUND (471) (Accomodate the $12.2M bond that will cost the taxpayer approximately $2.8M in interest instead of opting for "pay as you go" development) A Special Resolution was read to honor those who have championed "Rebuilding Together" and "Christmas in April". They began in 1989 and have given $11.5M in repairs to those in need. This was co-sponsored by Karen White, Regina Williams-Preston and Oliver Davis, Jr. Oliver Davis, Jr. is proposing a "Homeless Bill of Rights" which is used in Indianapolis and other areas of the country. Council Attorney Bob Palmer is reseraching multiple ones to assess and combine one that will be presesnted to the SB Council. John Shafer of the "Five for the Homeless" on Miami Street, commented the Homeless are humans and citizens and already have rights. Charles Robert commented he has worked with them directly and has not had any issues with them harming him in any way. Henry Davis, Jr. commented about their plight and urged the City to address more problems. Dr. Varner expressed that Rights and Respect go both ways and the Homeless need to be more respectful to the police. AGAIN - IMPORTANT: ZONING ORDINANCE UPDATE BRIEFING - Department of Community Investment There is a spreadsheet of "Zoning Quick Fixes - Reform to MU Mixed Use District Standards" November 6, 2017 where Community Investment wants to by-pass and reduce the requirements of businesses over private property owners. There are 27 changes to the Zoning Ordinances, "MU Reform Summary.pdf". Justification includes, "Allows fuller use of site consistent with traditional urban development". NOTE: It appears this was REMOVED from the City Website. Please see the ATTACHED records to see the 27 changes. If you have comments about these changes, please contact your Mayor, Council Representative and the 3 At-Large Councilpersons. A decision on these will be made in January, but now is the time to comment. NOTE: This will reduce the public's right to be informed and contest changes in our community. The Mayor and his Community Investment Department will be given more rights to ignore the average Citizen over large business interests. The Community Development and Redevelopment meetings are held during the day and DO NOT ALLOW ANY PUBLIC INPUT. Please review the attached documentation. For more meetings and articles: Follow #MichianaObserver on FB 
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November 20, 2017, Parks HQ, 5 pm
Board Members: Dan Farrell, Mark Neal, Aimee Buccellato * Approved previous minutes * Appoved October Financial Statements * Approved Event in East Bank Trail December 2 for St. Joseph Catholic Church * Opened the floor to Citizen input - No comments * Reports by Organizations * Report from South Bend Cubs 6 Seasons now, 4th year as a Cub Affiliate Ivy Berlin Project should be done by late summer and provide 120 Apartment Units and a Rooftop that will hold 300 - 350 more people for viewing the game Goal is to have 400K in attendance Fun Zone is moving in 3-4 Weeks since it blocked the view of the apartments. It will also have new electrical service and a picnic space. They appreciate their partnership with 1st Source Capital Improvements needed - HVAC that is 30 years old. Energy Savings Contract is coming up. * Report from the Botanical Society - Greenhouses on Mishawaka Ave next to the Zoo New Director - Emily Bradford They now have a new Education Coordinator, April Hammel "Friday Flowers" program is for age 5 and under - 34 attended the last one 175 memberships, there were 62 last year Seeing more college and high school volunteers * New Business National Resources Management Plan Handout (Draft) by Matt Moyers 574-235-7499 EAC - ECOLOGICAL ADVOCACY COMMITTEE can have up to 10 members They have had 6 meetings so far in 2017 There are 4 points in the Vision 3 Areas of Procedures and Guidelines Parks are in charge of approximately 50 Properties including - ELBEL, BOWMAN CREEK, etc. NOTE: If you are interested in being on this committee in 2018 APPLY NOW!!! Decisions will be made in December. You can apply online and call Matt Moyers for more details. Personnel Changes: Clare Daniels is the new department attorney Director of Recreation, Susan O'Connor, is retiring after 27 years Cecil Eastman is no longer the Director of Finance. This position is open. * Kid's Kingdom sustained 10% damage and re-opened 2 weeks later. There is still some painting to do in the Spring. $3K was raised and the Capital Donation Site remains open so the Parks don't have to use up their Maintenance funds. * Parks Foundation and Morris Foundation will merge. Funds are restricted to Projects - example - Studebaker Fountain in Leeper Park * 2nd "Best Week Ever" will start on May 28, 2018 * Every 5 years the Department needs to be recertified by the Commission for the Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies. This review will happen in 2018. * Capital Improvements in the works include: Charles Black Center Howard Park West Bank Trail Kernan Park Trail Being phased in: Polaski and Pinhook * Aaron Perri passed out champagne glasses and sparkling cider to toast the passage of the $12.2M bond on 10/23/17. As he toasted he commented, "I can hardly wait for all the ribbon cuttings!" NOTE: Toast to $2.8M in interest. If this had been "pay as you go" instead of rapid deployment, taxpayers would have an additional $2.8M to spend on other items. Next Park Board Meeting is on 12/18/17. For more meetings and articles: #MichianaObserver November 20, 2017, Transpo HQ
Pictures: Transpo is a PLATINUM LEED Certified Building! * Approved previous minutes * Finance & Adminstration Standing Committee There has been a 25% increase in fees Passed / Approved the 2018 Budget Adjustment made to the pension plan Tax Anticipation Warrant was passed * Grants & Planning Committee - Cancelled * Operations Committee - Cancelled * Operations Report - Director Allen One route had a 4.99% decrease in ridership while others increased as much as 8% 3 Preventable Accidents 2 Unpreventable Accidents * Finance Report - Controller Kubaszak Multiple routes were in the red for the year FTA -$155K for the month -$638K for the year Passenger Routes - $31K for the month, -$121,623.19 for the year * Human Resources Report - Manager Davis 4 are signed up for the new training 2 additional positions became open At the time of the Budget Presentation, 20 positions were open 89 Union employees now Employee Open House on 11//30/17 from 9 am - 6 pm * Maintenance Report - Director Warmoth Blowers and Plows are ready for the winter season There is still one truck of salt leftover from last season 40 Inspections were done * Marketing Report - Director Hill 1 Press Release was made about the Holidays ND Home Game saw a 40% increase in ridership No Field Trips are scheduled Planning to make the website more mobile friendly * Administration Report - General Manager Cangany He enjoyed the Workshops in Orlando with the other City employees There are some vacations of offices at the South Street Station and renovation is needed Tenants complained there is not enough parking for them at the location 1,200 Additional people rode on the Saturday Game Days * Resolution 41-2017 - October Capital Improvement Fund $94,040.50 * Resolution 42-2017 - October Payroll and Transportation Funds - 106 Checks totalling $390,172.81 * Resolution 43-2017 City is funding up to 17 additional bus shelters and plan to install them in the coming 2 years. A grant was received. * Chairperson Squadroni was absent * Councilman Oliver Davis - Noted South Bend Tribune made an error stating Transpo did not make the amount asked for which contributed to the County's $5.8M healthcare shortfall. Transpo paid the amount asked. General Manager Cangany noted being self-insured has been difficult since there are 3 claims that are now over $200K each. * Councilman Oliver Davis asked about LOCKED RESTROOMS. General Manager Cangany responded it is NOT the policy to only offer restrooms to those with tickets. He further stated that would be difficult since people who pay cash wouldn't have a ticket. NOTE: Just before the meeting at 3 pm when I was at the South Street Station people were complaining the restrooms were locked and they were told they would be open until 4pm. (Buses run much later) General Manager Cangany commented no loitering is allowed. * There has been an uptick in vandalism, such as sinks and toilet paper holdrs being pulled off. Both intoxicated people and drug para. left behind continues to be an issue. There is less when SBPD are available on site from 3pm to 9pm. Regular security service is on duty until 3 pm. It was suggested perhaps they could hire more security from other police departments like Mishawaka or even Niles. NOTE: Since my phone calls were not returned by General Manager Cangany, I took the opportunity to address the Board during the Open Portion of the Meeting. During the study of the Transpo Budget I learned that each Access trip costs $34 and only $2 is paid by the rider since under Federal Law they can only charge twice the normal fare. This means every time an Access trip is made there is a $32 LOSS. 318 trips a day x $32/trip loss = $10,176 PER DAY LOSS The City of LaPorte only pays $16.50 per trip and the balance is subsidized. If Transpo were to change their buses to PROPANE / CNG Fueling, that would mean Transpo would only lose $15.50 per trip instead of the current $32. This would cut the loss per trip IN HALF. (-$4,929/Day instead of -$10,176/Day) Tom MacLennon, Director of Public Transportation City of LaPorte, said they have 7 vehicles just like our Access Buses they converted to Propane 4 years ago. Transpo has 60 in their fleet, so this would be a HUGE savings. They got their bus engines converted at a business in Elkhart. They noticed less maintenance compared to Diesel Fuel. Propane burns clean. INDOT has propane fueling stations that sell it for $0.60/gallon. They lease a tank and fueling pump which is $0.41/gallon. On average they paid $1.25 to $1.73 / gallon which is cheaper than diesel and cleaner burning. FURTHER: What if this were done for the SOUTH BEND SCHOOL CORPORATION? What kind of savings would there be? For more meetings and articles: #MichianaObserver November 20, 2017, County-City Building 13th Floor
1. Roll call 2. Approved Minutes from the October 26, 2017 meeting NOTE: Regular Meeting Scheduled on November 9th was cancelled. Reason sited, "Nothing on the Agenda" 3. Approved Claims Submitted 4. Old Business - none 5. New Business 5A. Receipt of Bids for 1036 Lincoln Way East 5B. River West TIF Development Area 1. Temporary License Agreement granted for a Site Agreement to Great Lakes Capital Note: Address was not noted on the Agenda 2. Development Agreement with Ziker's - 251 Sample Street * Building has 70K sq ft available * Goal is to become a business incubator with an education focus * $100K in TIF money is being given for architectural studies * Dave Ziker explained the progress for the buildings. There are multiple buildings and the first was built in the 1880's. Ziker's began when his Russian Immigrant anscestor came to the area as a taylor. * Plans include - Merriman Piano - They rehab pianos and have two of the area piano turners. They want to train more people vocationally to repair and tune pianos. They also plan to have a "Piano Adoption Service". www.merrimanspiano.com Graphic Arts - Nathan Henry Sew Love - Use 5K sq ft for teaching at-risk women at "The Crossings" how to do industrial sewing, which is in demand with the Elkhart RV industry Fashion School - Possibly create a local fashion line of clothing AV Studio - Jacob Titus - Podcast Studio for $50 / hour Opera School and Practice Space - 14K sq ft on the second floor of the building * The site has been cleared by IDEM - Indiana Department of Environmental Management to be safe from chemicals 3. LangLab - Currently houses Bowman Creek Education and Zen Cafe (which will be moving downtown next year) * $76K was given for HVAC and the Board approved another $26K * Since "The Branch" closed, they are hoping to pick up some of the Co-working clients * Dan of Redevelopment incorrectly identified LangLab as the first Business Incubator. INCORRECT: The first Business Incubator in South Bend was 300 N. Michigan and was done by the CDC Computer Corporation to spur technology in 1984. The first tenant in that incubator was American Computer Security. 4. Second Amendment for selling the VA Building to Cressy and Everett for $92,660. City picked up the costs for Phase I Environmental Costs and the Downspout Disconnection Fee. NOTE: Unlike homeowners, businesses can pay a one-time fee and continue to dump all their water into the sewers in perpetuity. Reason given was to avert "Business Hardship". 5C. Other - Temporary use of the Gridiron was granted to Lake Fenton, MI Community Schools for a Marching Band event on 4/22/2018 6. Progress Reports * Tax Abatement - Councilperson Gavin Ferlic reported - NONE * Common Council - Councilperson Gavin Ferlic reported - NONE * Other - NONE Adjourned For Further information on any of the above items, call 574-235-9371 For more meetings and articles: #MichianaObserver November 16, 2017, IUSB "The Grill"
Speakers: Mr. Conrad Damian, SOAR President (Southeast Organized Area Residents) Ms. Sara Boukdad, EnFocus Consultant Ms. Kim Clowers, Founder of Fremont Youth Foundation Ms. Nia Okereke, Founder of Young Royalty Moderators and Sponsors: Dr. Elizabeth Bennion-Turba, American Democracy Project & IUSB Political Science Club Ms. Diana Hess, Neighborhood Resources Connection Ms. Hess defines Neighborhood Assets as a combination of Associations, Institutions, Land, Exchanges and Residents Ms. Kim Clowers became active after the shooting deaths of three teens in her area and wanting a safer neighborhood for her own children. It started with a small BBQ and expanded to a Block Party with 600 people and "Shakesphere in the Streets" with 300 people. The Fremont Youth Foundation focuses on Literacy. They have received books from Better World Books and they are providing literacy toys for tots all year around. In working with the Venue, Arts and Parks, they gave input on the $147K upgrade to the Freemont park which included a splash pad, wheelchair accessibility, a "Peace Park" to remember those killed and a speed bump to protect the children. She wants kids to know there is more to life than basketball and music. Juvenile Justice has dropped their literacy program. Ms. Nia Okereke, age 23, founded "Young Royalty" to empower black youth to see themselves as Kings and Queens and not as slaves. She descibes slavery as a "blip in history" and wants them to focus on a broader history. Her goal is to fill in the cultural gaps with high esteem and kindness, while desolving the separation from wanting better for themselves. She feels it is important to change their economic priorities from $300 shoes to eating healthy and valuing themselves. Part of her program included the "7 Principles of Kwanza". Mr. Conrad Damian became involved when he saw the City making changes WITHOUT the input of the residents in the neighborhood in creation of the "Southeast Neighborhood Master Plan". They met for 5 Tuesdays and decided to create SOAR (Southeast Organized Area Residents). They asked residents 2 questions: "What do you like about the SE Neighborhood?" Answers: Location, Diversity and Safe "What should we improve?" Answers: Curbs & Sidewalks, Vacant Lots (426 of them), Houses and Safety 466 Works is a Neighborhood Corporation buidling two homes. They enjoy having Lang Lab and "Art in our Park". Lighting has increased and they are working more closely with the EnFocus Interns to give resident input. There are 16 people who have lived in the neighborhood for over 40 years that have valuable insight and wisdom about the area. Ms. Sara Boukdad, a member of the Society of Female Engineers at Notre Dame says this project is a "Sandbox of Innovation" which includes a Native Tree Nursery to provide the City with lower cost trees to plant, analyzing soil for best uses, rain gardens and the use of Arch GIS to map projects. Notre Dame and other schools provide 30 interns for 8 and 10 week programs. They use a "Design Thinking Model". There are currently 409 vacant lots. Some lots have been purchased and split bewteen neighbors to give them bigger lots. Other lots have been used for rain gardens. The Bowman Creek Project included the 2 mile stretch of it. Some of it is underground and contamination was the reason for starting the project. There is also study to reduce the flooding of basements and sewers in the area with storm water management. 466 Works is a non-profit started by the Mount Carmel Baptist Church to improve the area around them. Their Community Development Corporation has gotten a block grant for $200K and is building 2 houses. AUDIENCE COMMENTS INCLUDED: * Programs for Goals and Anger Management and Anti-bullying may further help stear kids away from a violent lifestyle. * The literacy program could be enhanced by taking the kids on field trips so they could experience and see other lifestyles * There is a study of 11 Impact Areas which include evaluating the needs of Seniors in the LaSalle Area For more meetings and articles: #MichianaObserver November 13, 2017, County-City Building 4th Floor
Councilpersons Present for Committee: Tim Scott, Oliver Davis, Jo Broden, David Varner, Karen White, Gavin Ferlic Absent for Committee: John Voorde, Randy Kelly Absent for Full Council: John Voorde Tim Scott, Council President - Last meeting will be December 11, 2017 72-17 COMMON VARIANCES - Community Development wants to change the percentages for restaurants use of property outside. It also allows "Landscaping to be placed within the right-of-way" and skirt the need for off-street parking requirements. Mike Divita of Community Investment stated it is too much of a financial hardship for a business to meet the requirements to provide off street parking. This will mean that those with homes or other businesses next to these restaurants will have cars parking in the spaces they need. NOTE: Recently the Board of Public Works granted permits to both "Aloft" and "Fiddlers Hearth" to use the WHOLE sidewalk for outdoor dining and not leave a 5' walk through for pedestrians. This would require those wanting to cross in front to go out in the street to go past. This in in violation of ADA and SECTION V, Chapter 21, Article 3 subsection (b)(11) Outdoor Operations - vi "Shall be located as to not interfere or conflict with sidewalks, walkways..." Section 21-03.07 (G) Outdoor Seating for Restaurants. Why should variances and NOT be granted for these permits? The average Citizen and those with mobility issues should not come second. When the Council abdicates their oversight on these matters it means Community Development and Redevelopment can grant businesses rights and permits above the average Citizen. The Common Council is the voice of the people and a BALANCE of power. Both COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT and REDEVELOPMENT do *NOT* allow Citizen comments or input to their meetings and proceedings. Agendas are sparce and without packets leaving the public without insight unless they know to file for APRA or FOIA. Bottomline: Council voted "FAVORABLE" for reducing the rights of Citizens and surrounding businesses in favor of restaurants and bars. 73-17 Change of ENGINEERING STANDARDS - Community Development wants to reduce the "Clear sight area requirements and private street widths", as well as, reduce the "requirements for drive-through faciltiy standards" This means that businesses can be 10' from the property line instead of 25'. They used Indianapolis as a reference. This also reduces the 5 car clearance on drive through lanes. They used banks as an example, but consider how many cars you see for coffee or fast food establishments. By reducing this, cars will be able to extend out into roads and nearby properties. Council voted "FAVORABLE". 74-17 PYRAMIDING USES - "See rezoning to a less intense zoning district to permit certain uses, even though those uses are less intense than and are compatible with the uses found in their existing zoing district." Council voted "FAVORABLE". ZONING ORDINANCE UPDATE BRIEFING - Department of Community Investment There is a spreadsheet of "Zoning Quick Fixes - Reform to MU Mixed Use District Standards" November 6, 2017 where Community Investment wants to by-pass and reduce the requirements of businesses over private property owners. If you would like to view these 27 changes to the Zoning Ordinances, look on the City Website Documents section for "MU Reform Summary.pdf". Justification includes, "Allows fuller use of site consistent with traditional urban development". If you are unable to locate this document (part of the Common Council Meeting Packet), someone at the City Clerk's Office can guide you through the website areas to find it. If you have comments about these changes, please contact your Council Representative and the 3 At-Large Councilpersons. A decision on these will be made in January, but now is the time to comment. 78-17 TAX ABATEMENT ENFORCEMENT CODE AMENDMENT - "Sec. 2-84.14. - Failure of petitioner to comply may result in fines being imposed or termination of economic revitaliazation designation and repayment of taxes previously abated." This means if the recipient doesn't conform to the rules, there can be fines and repayment. "Department of Community Development shall randomly audit no less than five tax abatement recipients each calendar year and certify the recipients' compliance with the terms and conditions of their abatements." This means the Department that issues these abatements is also the one to do the examination and enforcement and the only plan to look at 5 out of the many Abatements issued. NOTE: Perhaps an independent group needs to look at ALL the Abatements given for millions of tax payer dollars. 79-17 TAX ABATEMENT ENFORCEMENT ADVISORY REVIEW CODE - Amending SECTIONS 2-84.9(c) AND 2-84.9 (e) of CHAPTER 2, ARTICLE 6 - This is in reference to those getting Abatements be required to pay their employees a minimum of $10.10 or at least the minimum wage offered by the City of South Bend. This has been tabled indefinitely. 17-70 PROPERTY LOCATED at 3419 W. WASHINGTON STREET - This is in regards to variances for a new community center. They are working with the Venue, Arts and Parks on a 14,000 sq ft renovation along with a 11,000 sq ft addition for a multi-use gym. This community center will be open to the public. The exercise room will have additional windows and there will be a bike repair shop. Council voted "FAVORABLE". 80-17 1ST READING CITY MANAGEMENT of THE HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION - The Historic Preservation Commission will now be under Community Investment Department. Councilperson Jo Broden expressed concern that they have been at odds over projects in the past and will now report to and answer to the CDI, which may reduce their effectiveness. 17-74 PROPERTY LOCATED at 926 S. ERSKINE PLAZA - Exeption for adding a micro-blading/semi-permanent tattoo service in an existing beauty salon. BOYD vs HPC APPEAL #2017-0602A - This is a dispute between the owner and the Historic Preservation Commission over a roof line and the construction of the roof. PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR - 12 people spoke about Homelessness issues in South Bend. John Shafer, Director for "Michiana 5 for the Homeless" lead his group. He has worked with the Street Homeless for *5 years*. He was NOT included in the Mayor's "Working Group", although he asked to be. Points made were that although some strides are being made to help, there are still gaps in availability. Those seeking shelter under the bridge had their belongings removed without there being any place to go. Services will provide for 10 Women at the Life Treatment Center, 30 Men at the Kraz Building and 15 Men at the Center for the Homeless. There are over 100 people on the streets. Jesse Davis remarked there is a building available that could be used, but the City is not interested. Previously Councilman Oliver Davis suggested a program used by other cities that gave the homeless a way to earn money. That was voted down. One woman stated the public is unaware of the extent of homeless women and children living on the streets and even more who are "couch surfing". Several mentioned the port-o-potty's were removed which means deficating in public and refusal of the hospital to let them use those facilities. It was also remarked that trash bins are not available. Because the wooden pallets were removed, they must now sleep directly on cardboard which soaks up water. The City posted signs downtown requesting people to not give to panhandlers. One suggested these are like signs in parks that say, "Don't feed the animals". Comments were from Citizen Advocates, homeless, and others. If you are interested in hearing the comments directly, live broadcasts were recorded and are now available - MiVocal on Facebook, City Recording and "Michiana Access TV" on YouTube. A copy of the Mayor's "Working Group" PDF is available on the City Website. Michiana 5 for the Homeless is having a blanket drive and John Shafer is willing to discuss the needs and issue of the Street Homeless. 574-607-3483 For more meetings and articles: #MichianaObserver  REAL Services, Inc. Area 2 Agency on Aging with AARP Michiana Monday, 2 pm, St. Paul's Sanctuary, 3606 S. Ironwood Drive, SB, 46614 Speaker: SHIP Counselor Mr. Virgil Mincy of Real Services, Inc. SHIP Counselors offer free guidance on how to navigate the websites and choices. They do NOT sell any insurance. To sign-up for an appointment: Appointments are available until December 7th Ms. Megan Rogers, BA Intake Team Leader PH: 574-284-7107 1151 S. Michigan Street, SB, 46601 [email protected] * New Medicare Cards will be mailed out WITHOUT a Social Security # on them * Premiums for Part B are not announced yet * Part F Plan will end in 2020 * There are 165 improvements that were part of the Affordable Care Act, so repealing may effect Medicare * Multiple pharmacies may be in your plan, but Rx costs will differ, so shop the prices * Be sure to get Travelers Insurance if you plan to be out of your local area since your Medicare Plan may only cover doctors and services in your local area HEALTH INSURANCE OPTIONS: * Traditional Medicare * Traditional Medicare with Prescription Drug Plan * Traditional Medicare with Supplement Plan + PDP * Medicare Advantage Plan, which includes PDP TRADITIONAL MEDICARE: PART A PLAN - Blood, Home Health Services, Hospice Care, Inpatient Hospital Care, After deductible, no coinsurance for days 1-60 of each benefit period PART B PLAN - After deductible, 80% of all Medicare Approved services other than those covered in Part A MEDICARE SUPPLEMENT PLANS: * 10 Standardized Plans A - N * 40 Companies available in St. Joseph County, Indiana, +/- offering some of all of these plans * Premiums vary from lowest cost up to double for the same plan MEDICARE PRESCRIPTION DRUG PLANS: * 26 Plans available in St. Joseph County, Indiana for 2018 * Premiums vary from $17.70 to $157.40 * If no drugs, no reason to enroll in any plan other than the lowest premium * If you do take Rx's, use the "Plan Finder" to find the lowest cost plan for the year * Most plans have "preferred pharmacies" NOTE: Costs can be different and some plans are not accepted by some pharmacies MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLANS: * 16 Plans, including Rx drugs for 2018 * 1 PFFS * 7 PPO * 7 HMO * 1 HMO-POS * 2 new companies for 2018 - Meridian and Allwell * Continuing plans include Humana, Anthem and United (AARP) * Need to enter Rx to evaluate costs * Evaluate providers in the Network, whether HMO imposes unwanted restrictions or whether HMO benefits offset restrictions * Conversely, if drug cost is favorable, PPO plan may provide more flexibility regarding providers * Out of pocket spending limits should be considered. These limits either limit or increase ones risk for total medical out of pocket cost. This varies among the available plans from $4,100 to $6,700 in network. This information was provided by SHIOP Counselor Mr. Virgil Mincy, Real Services, Inc. For more meetings or articles #MichianaObserver   Charles Martin Youth Center, South Bend, IN November 3, 2017, 6:00 pm, Present: Mayor Pete Buttigieg, Councilperson Regina Williams-Preston, Councilperson Jo Broden Speaker: Dedrick Asante-Muhammad, Senior Fellow of the Racial Wealth Divide Initiative at Prosperity Now * SB is 54% White, 27% African American, 13% Hispanic and 1.4% Asian American * Hispanic households in SB have a 32.9% income poverty rate, 10 percentage points higher than the national Hispanic income poverty rate * Hispanic home median values are $60K, 1/3 the national average * Asian Americans in SB make half of the $74,245 annual median income for Asian Americans nationwide at $31,313 annually * Blacks make 1/2 of what White households make * Blacks are 2 times more likely to be in liquid asset poverty than whites * Black household income is $14K less than the national average and there is a 40.2% poverty rate MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME IN SB: * Black $21,242 * Asian $31,313 * Latino $35,318 * White $40,685 UNEMPLOYMENT RATE: * Black 9.2% * Latino 10% * White 4.9% HOUSHOLDS WITH ZERO NET WORTH: * Black 37% * Asian 16% * Latino 24% * White 16% HOMEOWNERSHIP RATE: * Black 35% * Asian 51% * Latino 63% * White 68% PROPERTY VALUES: * Black 70K * Asian (Not available) * Latino 60K * White 89K RACIAL DIVIDE PARTNERS: * Prosperity Now (formerly CFED) prosperitynow.org * Racial Wealth Divide Initiative (RWDI) at Prosperity Now - Facebook "Racial Wealth Divide" * City of SB, Human Capital and Inclusion EDUCATION - Bachelor Degree or Higher * Black 7% * Latino 6% * White 18% Former Councilperson Henry Davis says the "Racial Equtiy Audit" done by the EEOC done every 2 years has steadily declined Speaker Dedrick Asante-Muhammad says the focus needs to be at the State and Federal level Also mentioned a "Tax Base Sharing" used in Minneapolis Developing "Asset Development Ladders" would help Mayor's Promised Action Items: * Economic Development (to date has not benefited low income or Minorities) * Continue to work with the WorkOne Pathways Program that meets every Friday * Bring back the Minority Board which has not met for several years * Ask City Purchasing to make more of an effort to purchase from Women and Minorities * Use students in both Jr. High and High School for research and involvement * Ask himself the "10 Questions" (See photo) RECORDING OF THE FULL MEETING: YouTube: https://youtu.be/CH4sjd_Jn9w AUDIENCE COMMENTS: 30 min - Mr. Brown 33 min - Henry Davis 39 min - Woman asking about Equalizing Wealth 42 min - Antonius 49 min - Young Woman 50 min - Mayor Pete 53 min - Pastor 56 min - Mayor Pete 59 min - Mayor Pete with Next Steps UPCOMING MEETINGS: Nov 16th, 6 pm, Harrison Primary Feb 6th, 6 pm, Near Northwest Neighborhood Center Apr 3rd, 6 pm, Robinson Community Center June 7th, 6 pm, County-City Building For more information and PDF on this contact: Christina A. Brooks [email protected] For more Meetings and Articles: #MichianaObserver  |
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