Civil Rights Heritage Center, 6:00 pm, January 17, 2018
Moderator: Dr. Darryl Heller, Director of the Center PANELISTS: Ms. Linda Wolfson, Community Forum for Economic Justice Dr. James Mueller, Executive Director, Department of Community Investment, City of South Bend Ms. Christina Brooks, Diversity Inclusion Officer, City of South Bend This is part of a series of meetings being held about the economic disparity for those in the African American Community which by the City's own study shows South Bend's African American Community which totals 27% of the population, makes 50% less than whites and has two times the unemployment. Ms. Linda Wolfson: She maintains not much has changed in how the City of South Bend distributes its economic monies. (TIF - Tax Incremental Financing which are tax dollars that go to private businesses and projects in the hopes they will boost business and improve life for the community and TAX ABATEMENTS - which allows the City to help their cash flow by not paying any increased property taxes for a specific period of years) She cited an article in the South Bend Tribune from August 15, 2006 where instead of the City boosting and developing the Portage area, the TIF monies went towards Blackthorn. The City expanded the TIF boundaries South so the City could spend the monies someplace other than where economic development was needed most. Holladay Corporation was given $2.1M in TIFs and granted $4,530,027 in tax forgiveness. She says, these Tax Abatements are not necessary and the average citizen property owner has to make-up the shortfall in taxes while not getting much benefit and does not benefit those who need the economic boost the most. She maintains the City continues to ignore the areas that most need attention while concentrating the funds in the downtown area. NOTE: There is a new project in the works for the Portage area that is a "Spec Building" which means there is not a firm commitment from a business to occupy it. This warehouse would require TIF and be given major property tax abatements. According to the developer, it would be a highly automated warehouse and only need 6-10 workers. It would not address the need to bring in many jobs for the community for the amount of money they are being given as incentives. The City often argues these Abatements bring in needed jobs. Dr. James Mueller: He says their policies of restrciting traffic in the downtown is a wise economic choice so traffic doesn't flow through it like a highway is beneficial and that developing the downtown area first will eventually expand out to the neighborhoods. He maintains working on the neighborhoods first just doesn't give the local economic boost needed. Revitalizing areas with aging housing stock doesn't give a good return on investment the way concentrated downtown homes will. Ms. Christina Brooks: She gave a personal account of her life in South Bend, definitions of racial inequities and a history of racial disparities. She highlighted parts of the "Racial Wealth Dividein South Bend" September 2017 report the commissioned from "Prospertiy Now" which is available to the public as a download. "More data analysis is needed" before the City can take action. AUDIENCE COMMENTS: Ms. Lisa DeBerry says in the meantime, the "1,000 Houses in 1,000 Days" project took out many houses and the area has not received the needed funds to rebuild it and fix the remaining homes which are often valued at below $50,000. Those funds have gone to build expensive homes/condos in the downtown area. Dr. Mueller replied that 60% of the homes were saved. Ms. DeBerry asked what if anything had been done to help those homeowners repair those homes, further noting that instead of helping, the City is handing out Code Violations instead, which puts the homeowners further in debt and does not address the problem. Mr. Jas Alexander, VP of Local 84809, asked about requiring those receiving TIF/Abatments to be required to have hiring requirements around minorities and local residents to boost the income of those already living here. Dr. Mueller replied there needs to be further study and data on the issue. He also stated there might be lawsuits if the City made these types of requirements so at this time the City will not make any labor requirements on these developers. Mr. Alexander continued to say that on many local development projects, workers from outside South Bend are brought in instead of utilizing locals who need the jobs and income. He also asked what is being done to train local workers to boost their ability to fill jobs and raise their income. Ms. Brooks says there are programs through St. Mary's (SPARK), SCORE for startups and WorkOne where the City allocated $100K Trainings Connection Program which pays for training for people to upgrade their skills. NOTE: That $100K rapidly runs out which means it is being utilized. It goes directly towards those residents wanting to advance their careers. Funding this program more agressively may boost the economy more than giving Abatements since it raises people's skills and income directly.It also gives employers a more skilled workforce. Other Audience Comments: Gentrification continues to be a concern and people are not convinced the "trickle down" of downtown money spent and property tax dollars given away will reach neighborhoods will work since the neglect has made things worse in the meantime. They are tired of more "conversations" and less "action". Redevelopment Commission meetings are held on the 13th floor of the County-City Building two Thursday mornings a month. They are open to the public to attend, but no comments or input from the public is allowed. According to the Brookings Institution, "States and localities spend $50 to $80 billion on tax breaks and incentives each year in the name of economic development despite a mountain of evidence showing that tax incentives produce mostly marginal returns. These traditional approaches to economic development by local governments have not benefited all populations — and, in many cases, the policies and programs have particularly neglected or even shortchanged people of color, immigrants and low-income communities" -- Matt Zone, President of the National League of Cities For more Articles and Meetings: #MichianaObserver
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The Short 2018 Session has started and a variety of laws are being introduced for schools, wages, taxes, animals, crimes, voting, healthcare and more. Here is a QUICK LIST of what is being discussed. Like it? Don't like it? Now is the time to start letting your State Legislators know what you think! Please Like/Share Thanks! #MichianaObserver
Thursday, January 11, 2018
REDEVELOPMENT 9:30 am, 13th Floor County-City Building All Members present Ben Dougherty, Dave Relos, Marcia Jones, Councilman Dr. Dave Varner, Coucilman Gavin Ferlic, Kintae Lark NEW BUSINESS Administrative 1. Resolution 3419 - Approve Meeting Schedule for 2018 2. Resolution 3421 - Procedures for Property Related Services - Updated Employee Names and Responsibility Levels 3. Resolution 3422 - Authority for Administrative Acts - Pertains to Closing, Tax Appeals, Rezoning NOTE: Michiana Observer Post on 11/28/2017 has Chart of new actions they can perform without Council consent, public hearing or public input. 4. Resolution 3423 - Procedures for Temporary Use Agreements NOTE: They can grant variances without public input or dissent. RIVER WEST TIF DEVELOPMENT AREA 1. Resolution 3420 - Consenting to the Assignment of the Real Estate Purchase Agreement to "333 Western Associates, LLC" from Cressy & Everett (VA Building) 2. Resolution 3424 - Consenting to the Assignment of the Real Estate Purchase Agreement to "Michigan Street Shops LLC" from Cressy Everett DISCUSSION: Councilman Dr. David Varner asked if transferring these from Cressy & Everett would include the City requirements for meeting TIF/Abatement Rules that are in place. Legal Council Ben Dougherty said they were part of the transfer. NOTE: Moving these contracts from a larger developer with considerable assets to a smaller independent company will limit their liability since failure would be contained to this new corporation. This could mean if the project fails, a bankruptcy would leave the City without recourse. For the Development Corporations it will make it easier for them to parcel it off as a sale to another entitiy, file that business as a "small business" and operate under different tax rules. STATISTICALLY it will showup as if the City suddenly has a "Small Business Growth Increase" downtown when in reality it is a large corporation parceling out each development deal. It will also help meet small business goals. 3. Second Amendment to the JMS Development, LLC: There was $87,000 left over on this TIF that could have been redirected or put back in the account. Instead Community Investment elected to spend it on upgrading the asphault, installing a fence and an electric gate for JMS parking lot. All of the above items were voted FAVORABLE Unanimously. PROGRESS REPORTS A. Tax Abatements - There was a new parcel annexed into the City for a warehouse project out by the Airport. B. Common Council - No update C. Other - None Next Meeting: Thursday, Jan 25th, 9:30 am, 13th Floor County-City Building (Public can attend but no comments or questions are allowed at these meetings.) NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH 6:45 pm, South Bend Police Department Presenter Ptl. James Burns NOTE: See attached pictures of slides for details * Recap of statistics on the slides. Info on these slides is also available for the public on www. crimereports .com * There are approximately 2,000 Block Captains and the SBPD would like 12,000 to be more effective If you are interested please call: Ms. Pinkey at 574-235-9577 * Annual Fallen Officer Memorial will be held in the evening of May 18th at the SBPD * Handouts for prevention were handed out * Nuisance Abatement Vehicle "continues to be effective" and they are working on trying to get a second one For more articles and meetings: #MichianaObserver Committee: Health & Public Safety
Chairperson: Ms. Jo Broden Present: Ms. Jo Broden, Mr. Tim Scott, Mr. Oliver Davis, Jr, Mr. John Voodre, Ms. Karen White From the Mayor's Office - Ms. Laura Sullivan, Chief of Staff Council Attorney Bob Palmer, Presenting Opening Comment by Councilman Davis - "A chain is defined by its weakest link. We are defined by how we care for our most vulnerable." * There has been no Bill crafted, this is the start of the process to gather information and receive input from the public. * Some of these are called "Right to Rest" bills. The right to sleep or rest in public. * First one was written in Rhode Island in 2012 * In the case of South Bend it is not to "right the wrongs of laws criminalizing resting or eating in public" * Mayor wants "Unity of Purpose" * This is not a complete solution * Nothing can force people to take shelter * People have the right to be free from opression * This is a starting point * Puerto Rico has the most extensive rights. They classify the homeless the way we classify minorities here with rights. They have 7 main rights: 1. To move about freely 2. Equal access and treatment to municipal agencies 3. Employment without having to have a home address 4. Access to emergency care 5. The right to vote without having a set address 6. Right to privacy about their information 7. Right to privacy and not have their items stolen or taken Connecticut: * No harassment from police * Right to give and receive food Indianapolis: * Worked on a Bill of Rights for 3-4 years and it was vetoed by their Mayor * Later passed one that had less in it * Protected to live in camps * Given 15 days notice to keep and store their belongings * If removed, the City most store the belongings for up to 60 days and catalog the items. * Items must fit within a 90 gallon container size * Duty to find them services to help them with their issues * Enforcement Proceedings At the State level agencies and revenues can be created to address the issue. Whatever SB does, it can't go against existing State Statutes Suggestion is to insert it into the Human Rights Commission area as a classification based on housing status Councilman Varner wants to add a "Responsibilities of the Homeless" component. (See slide) Concerns expressed were: * Diseases * Criminal Activity * Reduction in Business * Lowering of Property Values * Creating fear in people Councilman Tim Scott Comments: * How many other cities have been looked at for examples? * Are there performance metrics for cities who have implemented a Bill of Rights? * Look at the 15 Day Notice * Learn what the health concerns are to the community * People living in cars - perhaps have a designated lot It's easier for a State to address the Homeless issue South Bend shouldn't shoulder the whole responsibility - County needs to assist Councilman Oliver Davis, Jr. Comments: * Homeless come to the larger cities seeking mental health treatments, jobs and entertainment activities Councilwoman Jo Broden Comments: * Wants to know about the past bills introduced at the State level, even if they didn't pass * Have there been any legal challenges to the legalities in other areas/ * Records and data in other areas like Indianapolis PUBLIC COMMENTS: Ron Parker - the "Cass Communities" in Detroit have been successful in addressing homeless issues The problem is that mental health facilities and County Homes no longer exist Henry Davis Jr. - Likes there is a public forum since we need to protect people, not punish them. Expressed concern the Homeless experience discrimination like he does when not wearing a suit and tie. John Shafer - Michiana 5 for the Homeless - Reminds us the Homeless are already Citizens with Rights. They need to know the count and matter. He detailed an incident where a man had a diabetic issue and had hurdles receiving the care he needed. Nate Levin-Aspenson - Is pleased to see South Bend showing Moral Leadership. Granular concerns include: The Homeless Constituents may not know about it and doesn't want the wording to be too broad or it just becomes a "Vanity" piece of legislation. Wants things more defined than "Reasonable". Rebecca Burton - Wants the panhandling signs removed and is disgusted by the humiliating treatment of the Homeless. Does not like that the items such as sleeping bags they use to keep warm were thrown away. Kevin Hoggard held the banner, "Homeless Lives Matter". Sue Kesim - Expressed the need for specific rights about using public facilities since those at Transpo and the Hospital are closed or they are denied at times. Joy Johns were removed. If they need to have a place to relieve themselves, cleanup and shower, as well as do some laundry so they can be presentable. It is practical and a health issue. Charles Smith - Doesn't like the indignity of them having their belongings thrown away. Did appreciate some of the officers were considerate. Councilman Oliver Davis - "We have to take care of our own. This makes us a strong city." Councilwoman Broden suggested there be future meetings at the FUSE Center. She commended the "Continum of Care" and "Rennaisance Working Group" for their efforts. More information is available in the Common Council Dropbox or the City Clerk's Office. For more meetings and articles: #MichianaObserver #MySouthBend December 14, 2017, 9:30 am, 13 Floor, County-City Building
Present: Ben Dougherty, Dave Relos, Marcia Jones, Don Inks, Gavin Ferlic, Kintae Lark Absent: John Anella NEW BUSINESS: A. River West Development 1. Issued a Certificate of Completion for Xanatek Corporation for 402 S. Lafayette 2. First Amendment to Real Estate Purchase Agreement with Cressy & Everett Commercial Corporation) 45 more days extension concerning the Shops and Garages for Leighton 3. First Amendment to Temorary License Agreement for Site Examination with Great Lakes Capital Development LLC This is for the property at Jefferson and Main NOTE: Instead of getting independent appraisals and bidding the property, Community Development is looking at selling the property to them for $50,000. Proper procedure would be the independent appraisals. This is the same development project receiving a FULL 6 YEAR ZERO TAX ABATEMENT for $1,269,000. Common Council approved this ZERO TAX ABATEMENT. Dr. David Varner was the only "Nay" vote. 4. 933 Lincolnway East INDOT is planning to Repair and Stripe the roads between Sample and Twychenham The City is looking at expanding the sidewalks at the same time to connect the River Front Parks and Trails B. River East Development 1. Budget increase request of $2,800 for boring for the skating rink at Howard Park because of soil issues 2. Development Agreement with Greater Lowell Holdings (Frank Perri) J.C. Lauber Building will have about 8,300 sq ft after some parts are torn down to provide more parking There will be a minimum investment of $2M Plans are for Retail and Restaurant spaces LaSalle Body Shop will become "The Garage" It will have about 5,300 sq ft of space for events and office space There will be around $1.4M of private investment J2 Marketing is planning to move into this space Taxpayers will provide $400,000 in TIF money to pay for parking lots, facade improvement and stormwater "Stormwater" was not clarified as to if it will be physical improvements to deal with it or a waiver of the onetime fee or both NOTE: We do not know if Tax Abatements will also be given for this development. Progress Reports: Community Development is pleased the Common Council agreed to the FULL 6 YEAR ZERO TAX ABATEMENT of $1,269,000 For more meetings and articles: #MichianaObserver December 3, 2017, 2 pm at SBACC
Presenter: Jenn Gobel, Shelter Director CIVIL OFFENSES: Improper Tethering - * Rope/chain/cord attached directly to the animal's neck * Tether is not tangle free * Unaltered animal tethered outdoors * Animals tethered after 11 pm and before 6 am Animals running at-large - * Running off their own property Lack of food/water/shelter - * Igloo plastic dog house is not enough shelter without straw in it and SBACC has straw available * Water has to be fluid, not frozen * Food has to be fresh (not moldy or tainted) Animal appears to be neglected or abandoned - people are moving out and leaving the animals behind * Citiations that document violations having occurred on 3 seperate dates within 2 years - (Can't be 3 days in a row since they need to be given time to comply) * Witness accounts and/or testimony * Any supporting evidence such as photos, call logs, Animal Welfare Alerts (AWA) * Documented conversations and/or incidents in Pet Point Software System Animal Control Commission hears Civil cases - 5 members from the community and 1 Vet. They can revoke animal ownership for up to 5 years in the City of South Bend. Goal - Get other local jurisdictions to honor the ban with ordinance changes CRIMINAL OFFENSES: * Death of an animal due to cruelty or neglect * Neglect of an animal that is detrimental to the animal's health and well being * Acts of torture * Dog Fighting To prosecute: * Witness accounts and/or testimony * Documentation of Vet records and assessments plus Vet testimony * Any other physical evidence needed to prosecute NOTE: Landlords can be fined for tenant violations. Landlords need to include in their lease they can make unannounced visits to aid enforcement. Crime is "Place of Occurance" PHOTO/VIDEO DOCUMENTATION of animal(s) and/or scene(s) NOTE: These need to be taken with the geolocation, date and time turned ON. DO NOT put yourself in danger to get these photos/videos. Also, NOT sent through FB since the Meta data is not available. If you do a screenshot, you need to include the URL. For Craiglist posts, be sure to get the "Posting ID Number". The posting number is critical for getting a Search Warrant. NOTE: If the phone # is spelled out, that is a clue the seller may be dishonest. Both kinds of Offenses - These need to have solid EVIDENCE that can be proven PUPPIES - They can't be sold before 8 weeks per State Law and 10 weeks per SB Law. They must show proof of vaccinations and licenses. SBACC will be getting 2 day training to use more of the Pet Point Software and upgrade it to handle Dispatching SBACC will be talking to Officers at Roll Call about updates and they also have trained Postal Carriers on Bite training. SBACC gets frustrated when they can't see a violation and therefore can't enforce it. They need the PUBLIC to help with photos and video. NOTE: You cannot Trespass on private property to get the photos. If you get permission from a neighbor to go on their property this is admissible. CHALLENGE #1 - Animal is not present at the address given or in the area when the officer arrives on the scene. CHALLENGE #2 - We must allow the owner time to obtain compliance regarding the documented offenses. NOTE: If there are financial challenges for the owner, there are resources such as the Franz Fund for spays, vaccinations, etc. CHALLENGE #3 - Animals are considered "Property" and taking an animal without being able to prove exigent circumstances is a violation of the owner' civil rights. CHALLENGE #4 - Building a case to present to the Animal Control Commission takes time. We must prove that we have given every opportunity possible to help them comply. CHALLENGE #5 - We can only enforce what the laws and ordinance allow us to. "Bare minimum requirements" is not always agreed upon. CHALLENGE #6 - Staffing - We only have 4 officers that service a population of 101,735 and approximately 41.5 square miles NOTE: Not being up-to-date on Rabies is a Misdemeanor SPOTTING POSSIBLE DOG FIGHTING: * Using barrels as dog houses * Torn ears * Scars on the face and front of the body of the dog * Treadmills * Spring Poles - Spring with a rope to have the dog tug and strengthen their jaws * Small dogs being stolen in the neighborhood NOTE: Be sure to have LOCKS on your fence gates, motion sensor flood lights and watch your dog at bedtime or go out with them. COMMUNITY HELP: * Invite SBACC to speak at your Neighborhood Meetings * Make sure your animal is chipped and the chip has your CURRENT address and phone #. If you need a chip, they are available to anyone (in the City or not) for $20 * Make sure your animal has a 10 Digit Phone # tag on their collar. These are available at Meijer, PetSmart and Pet Supplies Plus while you wait and are around $10 Questions or leads - Ms. Jenn Gobel, Director, South Bend Animal Care & Control For more articles and meetings: #MichianaObserver 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 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 |
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