SOUTH BEND COMMON COUNCIL MEETING on Monday is to request 11 TAX ABATEMENTS and take out a NEW BOND for $4.2M for a Zoo Entrance.

NOTE: In the past 7 years there have been $117M in TAX ABATEMENTS given. The Mayor granted TAX ABATEMENTS of
$36M in 2017
$25.6M in 2016
$19M in 2015
$15.4M in 2014
$18.4M in 2013.
There were 64 $0 / 10 year Abatements up to 2018, which means they pay ZERO taxes for a decade, so the impact will be for a long time.

COMMUNITY INVESTMENT - Councilman Gavin Ferlic, Chairperson, James Mueller, Community Investment Director
1. Bill # 18-42 Modifying and Reconfirming Resolution for Historic JMS Building - 8 New Jobs, 10 YEAR TAX ABATEMENT
2. Bill # 18-43 Modifying and Reconfirming Resolution for JSK Development (Ireland
Hospitality/Holiday Inn Express) - 17 New Jobs Got 2 YEAR TAX ABATEMENT and now wants 6 more YEARS TAX ABATEMENT
3. Bill No# 18-44 Modifying and Reconfirming Resolution for JSK Development (Southhold/Courtyard
Marriott Downtown) - 38 New Jobs, 9 YEAR TAX ABATEMENT and now wants an ADDITIONAL 3 YEAR TAX ABATEMENT
4. Bill # 18-45 Modifying and Reconfirming Resolution for JSK Development (Southhold/Hall of
Fame) - 2 Year VACANT BUILDING ABATEMENT - (HALL OF FAME BUILDING) 
5. Bill # 18-46 Modifying and Reconfirming Resolution for RDistrict One (Studebaker Building 84) - 19 New Jobs, 10 YEAR TAX ABATEMENT and now wants 2 MORE YEARS TAX ABATEMENT
6. Bill # 18-47 Modifying and Reconfirming Resolution for Imagineering Enterprises (Personal
Property) - 5 YEAR TAX ABATEMENT
7. Bill # 18-48 Modifying and Reconfirming Resolution for Imagineering Enterprises (Real Property) - 25 New jobs, 6 YEAR TAX ABATEMENT
8. Bill #. 18-49 Modifying and Reconfirming Resolution for Tower at Washington (Hotel) - 45 New Jobs, 10 YEAR TAX ABATEMENT
9. Bill # 18-50 Modifying and Reconfirming Resolution for Tower at Washington (Parking Garage) - Jobs ?, 10 YEAR TAX ABATEMENT
10. Bill # 18-51 Modifying and Reconfirming Resolution for Tower at Washington (Retail) - Jobs ?, 10 YEAR TAX ABATEMENT
11. Bill # 18-52 Modifying and Reconfirming Resolution for Tower at Washington - Jobs ?, 10 YEAR TAX ABATEMENT

The Assessor's process is to have all Form 11 Assessment requests by January 1st. If they submit the request after that date, they Assessment will be for the following year. These companies did not file their Form 11's on time and now want exceptions and 6 to 10 year Tax Abatements.

NOTE: ROI (Return on Investment) Reports were NOT included in the meeting packets and NO DOLLAR AMOUNTS stating the tax decrease impact were included in the packet which would inform the Council and Citizens on the financial impact. 
Also, under Section 2-84-14(h) the company is to repay the abated taxes if they do not meet the agreed upon goals within 90 days after being notified.
After careful research, we found many companies did not produce over 10 jobs and 140 Abatements given created NO NEW JOBS at all. We do not know if the City has used this "claw back" clause to get back the taxes owed to the Citizens.
It is "best practice" to give Abatements - OR - TIF (Tax Incremental Financing) where the developer gets millions of tax dollars to rehab an area, not both. When TIF monies have been given the Taxpayer has already given and the taxes is where they get their return.
TIF Funds are currently showing DEFICIT AMOUNTS. If TIF is not payable, the secondary source of repayment is Property Taxes.
You can see the analysis and copies of the original City reports at: www.michianaobserver.com/abatement-reports.html

Bill #42-18 Appropriating Additional Funds
Bill #43-18 Department Budget Transfers

Bill # 44-18 The City wants to issue a Bond for a Debt amount of $4,205,000 to put a new entrance at the Zoo. The Zoo is now a seperate 501(c)3.
NOTE: PARKS recently received millions in funding in 2017 and now want to add another Bond.

OTHER NEWS:
At this time the Mayor has informed the NRC, Neighborhood Resources Connection, Funding will be cut in half to $50K leaving NRC to cut back on its programs for the neighborhoods.

The real cost of "Smart Streets" is $34M when you add in the interest and annual payments of $1.7M until 2037. $21M was what was available after the bond was issued. There was an additional $1,429,996 charged in Capitalized Interest since the City did not pay on the Bond for 2.5 years, which reduced the amount available to use on the project down from $25M.
For a complete report: http://www.michianaobserver.com/debt-service-smart-streets.html

A winter amnesty program for the Homeless has not been finalized, but there have been several community meetings.

TUESDAY there will be a **SPECIAL** Council meeting to discuss City debt, Cash Reserve decreases ($87M in 3 years) and the $60M+ Deficits. County-City Building 4th Floor at 5 pm.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CITY BUDGETS AND THE DEFICITS:

The City spent $441,274,160 last year and ended up with a $62,590,868 DEFICIT in 2017 and is headed for $63,028,220+ DEFICIT for 2018! Yes, DEFICITS OVER $60 MILLION two years in a row.
Cash Reserves are DOWN by $87,242,991 That is $87 MILLION. They had to pay $43,010,498 just on Debt Service (Prin + Interest). Unlike the Federal govenment, the City cannot print money.
Source: Page 51 of the 2018 City of South Bend Adopted Budget Book  http://docs.southbendin.gov/WebLink/0/edoc/118091/0.%202018%20Budget%20Book.pdf  
They are currently deciding on the 2019 Budget.
If you are concerned, contact the Mayor and your Council Members.

What did they spend the $ on? See the third column.
http://www.michianaobserver.com/cash-and-investments-2017.html
Source: Indiana State Gateway

Curious about all the ways the City of South Bend brings in Revenue? 
http://www.michianaobserver.com/detailed-receipts-2017.html 
Source: Indiana State Gateway

What Debt did the City owe on Bonds/Leases in 2017?
http://www.michianaobserver.com/debt-report-2017.html
Source: Indiana State Gateway

Mayor's Office Budget: http://www.michianaobserver.com/mayor-budget.html

City Clerk's Office Budget: http://www.michianaobserver.com/clerk-budget.html

Common Council's Budget: http://www.michianaobserver.com/common-council-budget.html

Learn more about the CIRCUIT BREAKER coming up: https://www.in.gov/dlgf/9644.htm
NOTE: Look for "South Bend Civil City" and further down, the Circuit Breaker on the Libraries.

Find out the real cost of "Smart Streets": http://www.michianaobserver.com/debt-service-smart-streets.html
Taxpayers will be paying on it until 2037.

Summary for 7 years of Tax Abatements: http://www.michianaobserver.com/abatement-reports.html
The Mayor granted over $117 MILLION in Tax Abatements. He granted $36 MILLION just last year.
$36,093,201 to 88 companies in 2017. Although Abatements are supposed to create jobs, many created less than 10 and 140 created NO NEW JOBS at all. 64 companies got $0 / 10 Year Abatements which means they pay ZERO taxes for a decade.

Questions in the NOTES Section are from the 6 Citizen Budget Committee Members. We encourage you to come in person to the Budget Meetings to be part of the process.
As the committee reviews the Budget presentations, more will be put up on the website. http://www.michianaobserver.com/budget-links.html

The City spent $441,274,160 last year and ended up with a $62,590,868 DEFICIT in 2017 and is headed for $63,028,220+ DEFICIT for 2018! Yes, DEFICITS OVER $60 MILLION two years in a row.
Cash Reserves are DOWN by $87,242,991 That is $87 MILLION. They had to pay $43,010,498 just on Debt Service (Prin + Interest). Unlike the Federal govenment, the City cannot print money.
Source: Page 51 of the 2018 City of South Bend Adopted Budget Book
http://docs.southbendin.gov/…/118091/0.%202018%20Budget%20B…
They are currently deciding on the 2019 Budget.
If you are concerned, contact the Mayor and your Council Members.
What did they spend the $ on? See the third column.
http://www.michianaobserver.com/cash-and-investments-2017.h…
Source: Indiana State Gateway
Curious about all the ways the City of South Bend brings in Revenue? 
http://www.michianaobserver.com/detailed-receipts-2017.html 
Source: Indiana State Gateway
What Debt did the City owe on Bonds/Leases in 2017?
http://www.michianaobserver.com/debt-report-2017.html
Source: Indiana State Gateway
Mayor's Office Budget: http://www.michianaobserver.com/mayor-budget.html
City Clerk's Office Budget: http://www.michianaobserver.com/clerk-budget.html
Common Council's Budget: http://www.michianaobserver.com/common-council-budget.html
Learn more about the CIRCUIT BREAKER coming up: 
https://www.in.gov/dlgf/9644.htm
NOTE: Look for "South Bend Civil City" and further down, the Circuit Breaker on the Libraries.
Find out the real cost of "Smart Streets": 
Taxpayers will be paying on it until 2037.
http://www.michianaobserver.com/debt-service-smart-streets.…
Summary for 7 years of Tax Abatements: 
The Mayor granted over $117 MILLION in Tax Abatements. He granted $36 MILLION just last year.
$36,093,201 to 88 companies in 2017. Although Abatements are supposed to create jobs, many created less than 10 and 140 created NO NEW JOBS at all. 64 companies got $0 / 10 Year Abatements which means they pay ZERO taxes for a decade.
http://www.michianaobserver.com/abatement-reports.html
Questions in the NOTES Section are from the 6 Citizen Budget Committee Members. We encourage you to come in person to the Budget Meetings to be part of the process.
As the committee reviews the Budget presentations, more will be put up on the website. http://www.michianaobserver.com/budget-links.html

August 27, 2018, 7pm, 4th Floor County-City Building
Absent: Sharon McBride

COMMITTEE MEETING: Public Works and Property Vacation
Organizational Meeting (Required by State Law)
Councilwoman Jo Broden would like Quarterly Updates about the Public Works projects by District to keep Council members informed and she would also like reports on where things are with the bonds.
Discussion on Alleys being vacated - If you need your alley graded, please call 311 to schedule it.
Sue Kesim suggested there be a map of where all the sewer work is being done, just like they do for road work. She suggested the 4 neighborhoods most affected by the floods would be the best place to start mapping since Citizens with sewage still coming in their basements would like to be informed about progress being made.
Councilwoman Regina Williams-Preston would like to see the Council getting ROI reports on Abatements before voting on them.

* Special Business - Introduce Council Intern David Boling

CITY GRANTS UPDATE:
* Community WINS - US Conference of Mayors - $50K to the Near North Neighborhood Association for 20 Women/Minority Businesses
* Bloomberg Cities of Service - $25K for the AmeriCorp "Love Your Block"
* AmeriCorp $149,130 grant and SB has to match with $319K for 10 full time AmeriCorp Volunteers for weatherization program
* Drucker's Life Long Learning - $500K from Google & WalMart to help non-traditional learners get certifications
* Smart Growth America - $8K for Safe Streets
* Smart Growth America - no $, technical assistance for "Sew Loved"
* Bloomberg Mayor's Challenge - $100K to give rideshare credits to 500 shift workers at Beacon through Uber
Councilwoman Karen White wants the City to put together a Grant Revenue Summary
Councilman Oliver White wants to know how grants can go to other neighborhoods, not just the Near Northwest Neighborhood

Bill #18-38 Industrial Park Phase II 4 year Real Property TAX ABATEMENT for Rew, LLC, in the amount of $109,965 for promising there will be 25 new jobs paying $17K a year.
Passed Unanimously
NOTE: They are moving from Mishawaka to South Bend. That is still within St. Joseph County. Both cities get funding from COIT (County Option Income Tax) so all this tax abatement did was give away tax income from St. Joseph County. 

Bill #18-40 For a Zoning Exception at 213 and 217 S. Main Street to allow a Drive-Thru restaurant. This will be at the South end of the new office building being built in the middle of SB in the only open space left at the corner of Jefferson and Main.
Passed Unanimously

Bill #38-18 Raising property taxes for Corporation General Fund, Park and Recreation Fund, Cummulative Capital Development Fund and Redevelopment Bond for the College Football Hall of Fame. Second Reading on September 24th.
Note: College Football Hall of Fame bond ended and a new Park one was issued in its place. In the Council Packet the dollar amounts/percentages were left blank. Hopefully this will be fixed before the second reading.

Bill #39-18 Sets up the accounting fund numbers for the coming year, other than the General Fund. Says, "as set forth in the attached budget which is made a part hereof". Second Reading on September 24th. Third Reading on October 8th.

Bill #40-18 Sets up more of the accounting fund numbers for the coming year. Says, "as set forth in the attached budget which is made a part hereof". Second Reading on September 24th. Third Reading on October 8th

NOTE: On October 8th the 3rd Readings and Passing will be done with Council Only.

Bill #41-18 TRANSPO Setting the budget and raising revenues for it. They will vote on a BUDGET and TEX LEVY on September 17th so the public hearing with the SB Common Council can be on September 24th.

NEW BUSINESS:
* Budget hearing on Wednesday will be for the SB Police Department, 5 pm, County-City Building 4th floor​

* "Michiana on the Move" Survey is online at MACOG where you can make comments about transportation in the Michiana Area. Make your opinion known at Move2045.macog.com
The 2045 Transportation Plan, will determine how federal, state, and local funds will be spent on highways, public transit, freight, and transportation infrastructure. The survey ends on Sunday, September 16th.

* Northshore Triangle Neighborhood will be having a "Visioning Session" on Sept. 13th

PRIVILEDGE OF THE FLOOR:

* Richard Collins of the Ardmore Neighborhood Association would like the Grandview Railroad Crossing changed so it is safer for kids crossing it to go to school or visit friends. There are no sidewalks, it is not graded and there is a large pit in front of the crossing. Since there will soon be 70 mph frieght trains running on these tracks, he also wants lights and gates. He also noted there have been 3 suicides at this location.

* Jesse Davis wants to know why the public can't park in front of homes in the Eddy Street Commons area when those homes have both garages and driveways. He understands ND Game Day restrictions, but does not agree with the general parking restrictions. He also detailed two incidents where people had to pay the only authorized SB City towing company $1,400 for a tow and they damaged a Corvette in one of the tows. He thinks the City needs more than one towing company to keep prices competitive or regulate the amount charged.

​ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

South Bend Gang Violence Intervention Report - 
January 1, 2018   to   August 21, 2018

46 Current GVI participant's

17  GVI Participants are Employed

8 Currently in Work Experience at Goodwill

4 In Workshop/Job Readiness Classes at Goodwill

6 Juveniles currently receiving services

15 GVI Participants currently in retention

8 Clients have completed retention (180 days of Employment)

Per Isaac Hunt, SBGVI & Gary for Life Supervisor at Goodwill

HOMELESSNESS ISSUE:
* Marco Mariani, Executive Director of South Bend Heritage Foundation, has been asked for a current report on the Oliver Aparments because of concerns services are not being provided to the residents there.

* Councilman Oliver Davis indicated there would be an update from Councilwoman Sharon McBride on the SOAR meeting when she returns.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CITY BUDGETS:

Mayor's Office Budget:  http://www.michianaobserver.com/mayor-budget.html  

City Clerk's Office Budget:  http://www.michianaobserver.com/clerk-budget.html

Common Council's Budget:  http://www.michianaobserver.com/common-council-budget.html

Learn more about the CIRCUIT BREAKER coming up:  https://www.in.gov/dlgf/9644.htm
NOTE: Look for "South Bend Civil City" and further down, the Circuit Breaker on the Libraries.

Find out the real cost of "Smart Streets": http://www.michianaobserver.com/debt-service-smart-streets.html

Summary for 7 years of Tax Abatements totaling $117M: http://www.michianaobserver.com/abatement-reports.html

Questions in the NOTES Section are from the 6 Citizen Budget Committee Members. If you have additional questions, please let us know. We encourage you to come in person to be part of the process.
As the committee reviews the Budget presentations, more will be put up on the website.

For more articles and meetings on FB: #MichianaObserver #CivicMedia #MySouthBend @MichianaObserver

August 20, 2018 County-City Building Council Chambers 4th floor, 6-8 pm
Present: Jo Broden, Jake Teshka, Oliver Davis, Tim Scott, Karen White, Regina Williams-Preston

Purpose: Hear the results of the Lawson-Fisher Sewer Survey and their recommendations for four neighborhoods - Emerson Avenue area, Riverside S. of Barlett, Northshore Triangle, Keller Park

NOTE: CSO Portion of the Agenda was postponed until later. It was suggested it be scheduled within the next 2 weeks.

St. Joseph River has a drainage area of 4,865 miles and is 206 miles long. It has 12 dams along it. Several are power producing dams under Federal regulation (FERC). Those that are for power have to keep the same water level coming in as going out and only have a rise of 6".

In February of 2018 there was a total snowfall of 29.6", which is 14.6" above normal, all within the first 17 days of February followed by 3 days of rain on the 19th - 21st. This is the 7th snowiest February on record followed by 8" of rain. 5" was the previous high rain in February.

Between the snow and the rain, this resulted in a 25,300 cubic feet per second flow, which is how they consider it a "2,500 year event flood".

August 15th and 16th of 2016 there was 8.5" of rain that fell in 19 hours which resulted in a 9,000 cubic feet per second flow, which is how they decided this was a "1,000 year flood event." 

They sent out a Questionnaire and got these responses:
Emerson - 5, Riverside - 10, Triangle - 105, Keller Park - 32, Other 48
They think this is an excellent response level and sampling.

Emerson Avenue Area - It has a 36" CSO. At the time of the flood, CSO #33 and CSO #35 were under 10' of water over them making it impossible for them to empty and they had backflow. This area has high ground water.

Riverside Area - CSO #10 is a relief point and it was under water. This has a 12" Throttle Pipe. This area has high ground water.

Triangle Area - There is an 84" combine pipe and has CSO #5 and CSO #25.  The trunk sewer was under water. Triangle area has County, City and ND. They did "ground truthing" for the 10" and 18" pipes around Angela Blvd. Marquette to Angela is where the pipe goes from 18" down to 10".
They did a video survey to see if the pipes were clear. EmNet sewer monitoring reprorted CSO #4 did not go back down until *May 5th*.  Some pipes were obstructed. This area has high ground water.

Keller Park Area - CSO #2 was under water and this area has high groundwater.

RECOMMENDATIONS MADE:
- Evaluate current design
- Offer basement valve program (which they do, but residents report a 40% failure rate on these)
- Homeowners need to take responsibility and seal the cracks in their basement walls and floors
- City needs to educate residents on options and ways to prevent problems
- Disconnect downspouts to reduce flow into sewers 
- Have lateral lines inspected between home and sewer since many are over 100 years old
- Research having a flood / sewer notification system to this area
- Routine video, cleaning and assessment of lines
- FEMA assistance grants to buy homes from flood victims in the 100 year flood plane area
- 10" pipe along Angela may not be enough since it has an 18" pipe flowing into it
- Have the City install stormwater backflows
- Evaluate the 12" Throttle pipe on Riverside
- Work with ND / Holy Cross to control the large amount of runoff towards Angela Blvd.

PUBLIC INPUT:
Public was given only 3 minutes to express their concerns about their homes and damage.
NOTE:  These are only SUMMARIZED. For exact quotes, please refer to the video of the meeting.

* Jeff Jacob, an attorney from Zionsville is representing neighbors in the Northshore Triangle area on the backflow issues. 
- He saw no significant upgrade recommendations
- Sewer budget is underfunded
- Wants to hear from EmNet to find out if the "Smart Sewers" worked as they were supposed to

* Bruce Harris on W. Angela
- Commented the campus drains all come together and he thinks all their water runoff is raising the ground water tables
- Wants to know if these drains were ever properly permitted

* Barbara Sutton, President of the Northshore Triangle Association has lived there since 1985.
- Believes in Climate Change since there have been 2 events - 2016 and 2018 and thinks it will happen again in the next 10 years
- Workshop needs to be held on how residents can seal the cracks in both the walls and floors
- Neighborhood is still not back to normal
- Citizens still need support

* Mary Wood has lived in her house 27 years
- Why isn't the City maintaining sewer lines well?
- 3' of water in her basement and she lost her furnace, washer, dryer and everything else

* Larry Miller - Worked in sewer department for over 7 years
- SB Sewers are in really bad shape
- Work that was paid to get done didn't get done
- Roosevelt sewer in Keller Park is flat on top and needs to be replaced so it doesn't cave in
- Sherman sewer caved in 3 times
- Concrete is deteriorating and streets will continue to cave in

* Tim Scott, Council President, lives in the Triangle
- There continues to be sewage backup in Keller Park
- Portage to Oakwood has black sewage backing up and it is on high ground
- Wants video of sewer lines in this area

* Dawn Hopkins
- Has a backflow valve and it has failed. She continues to have the same issues.
- In 2016 she had a 3' geyser coming out of her toilet
- In 2018 still had 18" in her basement
- These problems are a threat to public health

* Laura Klepper (sp?) is a scientist
- Her basement had 20x higher eColi level than allowed by law
- Thinks this will continue to happen in the next 10-20 years
- Says World Health Organization says to go away from CSO's
- Wants to see computer modeling on 10" / 18" pipe issue
- Wants to know if ALL the Northshore lines have been examined
- Why aren't there routine inspections and maintenance of all sewers?

* Helen has lived in Inglewood for 50 years
- Wants to know why there is always 2" of water in the basements of all those on her street corner and not in other parts

* Tricia has lived on Academy Place for 23 years next to a storm drain
- Her basement floods every year so she has stopped using it

* (Didn't catch name) 
- Thinks Waste Water Treatment Plant is at risk
- Problems are not new
- Backflow Preventers are not warranted for sewage

* Christian Carlson on Riverside Hill
- 2001 to 2016 has had 3 floods of water and sewage
- 2017 no water
- 2018 black water sewage in the basement and can no longer use it
- Several weeks ago again had black water sewage
- Can't find the man hole covers in the alley since City has graded over them
- Wife has Asthma and can't live in the home when this happens
- Blackflows have 40% failure rate
- Wants to know if "Double Valves" are better

* Brian Profit on Marquette Avenue
- Wants a notification system in place

* Al Kirsits on Marquette Avenue was formerly Council-At-Large on the City Council
- Passed an $88M bond while he was on Council to fix issues and wants to know why issues haven't been fixed
- 51" CSO pipe at Leeper Park is of concern
- It's not a separated system if sewage is getting into people's homes
- Concerned about the 10" pipe to accomodate the ND / Holy Cross flow
- Property values have dropped because of this
- Problems with both his home and his mother's

CITY RESPONSE:
- They want to increase tolerance levels from 6 hours to 24 hours
- They have done video on 30K feet of sewer
- They are looking into notification

MORE BACKGROUND:
Michiana Observer's previous article on the Flood and Sewers: http://www.michianaobserver.com/blog/meeting-notes-for-the-flood-update-utility-committee-meeting 

Michiana Observer's Original Coverage of the 2018 Flood with extensive detail:  www.michianaobserver.com/blog/northshore-triangle-flood-update-meeting

For more Articles and Meetings find us on Facebook and our Blog: #MichianaObserver #CivicMedia @MichianaObserver

All Council members present
TRAIN WHISTLE UPDATE: Tara Weigand, Project Engineer - They are working on making the whole City a 24 hour Quiet Zone. This will involve working with 3 different railroads with various requirements.
There are 3 Zones:
1. Norfolk Southern - Amtrak Station, Meade, Olive and Grandview Avenue will cost $120K to make quiet
2. Canadian Northern/GTW Corridor - Ford and Walnut Streets will cost $300K to make quiet
3. NICTD also uses the Grandview crossing will cost $50K to make quiet

HOMELESSNESS UPDATE: James Mueller, Community Development - 2 Core areas were identified by the Working Group, which are scattered permanent housing throughout the City and an Intake Center. They expect the Intake Center to have 30 Units and cost $1.4M with an annual operating budget of $260K. Need is estimated at 50 Units at a cost of $650K a year. (See Slide for amounts.)
He noted placement needs to be close to homeless services and away from schools. They are looking at moving the Ivy Tech trailers from their current location and have Hope Ministries run the program for the trailer homes. 
They have not determined where Winter Amnesty will be located at this time. Councilman Davis requested this presentation be made available on the website.

CITIZEN INPUT ON HOMELESSNESS: Council President Tim Scott did not want to hear from the Citizens and Vice President Councilman Davis insisted they be heard.
NOTE: All of these comments are SUMMARIES, not actual quotes. (For actual quotes, ask for the transcripts.)
* Pastor Shelton of the Rum Village Neighborhood Association on Scott Street, says they have a lot of rentals. He is concerned that Oliver Apartments has brought in drug dealers and prostitutes and people who will "Work for Food" on Indiana Avenue.
* John Shafer of 5 for the Homeless is concerned about bringing back Winter Amnesty. He says he is seeing a lot of families with children and the Homeless Center downtown is full. He said they lost 50 beds through Life Treatment Center closing. He noted homeless women are at the greatest risk.
* Patti, the Rum Village Treasurer, is concerned about the 1500 block near Ignition Park. She asked that each neighborhood association be represented at a meeting on the trailer placement.
* Harry Marsh, a lifelong resident on Carroll Street wants to see Homeless placement spreadout. His neighborhood has a lot of the Homeless Services and he doesn't want to see even more problems on the Southeast side.
* Isaac Hunt - Spent a weekend offering jobs with Goodwill, bus transfer passes and addiction treatment. He had 2 people take him up on the offer. He is concerned about sitting on his front porch and seeing drug deals, people throwing bottles and loitering. He noted at the liquor store there are drug sales and prostitutes under the age of 17. He says there are enough Homeless around the Life Treatment Center and Plasma Center. He suggested they put the trailers up by Notre Dame where they can be cared for.
* Henry Miller on Broadway, is appauled at putting people who aren't productive with those who are productive. He says Services are not effective and not working together to solve the problems. There is a cost to inconvenience others.
* Traci Miller on Broadway says they need to go back to the drawing board for a decision since the Homeless don't want to be accountable for their actions. The Opiate Crisis needs to be addressed since people can't even move out of her way since the are high and drooling. She wants Oaklawn to evaluate them. She noted there is too much panhandling and is not interested in people getting fed for 3 years since that "disables" them.
* Reverend with the Gateway Association - Wants the City to take the time to do it right and not "slap it together". He says the problem with the Oliver Apartments is there are no wraparound services and no security. Drug dealers are selling to residents.
* Charlotte Pfieffer of 466 Works on the near Southeast side, says her organization is building 2 new homes to improve the area on Indiana & St. Joseph streets. She thinks LaPorte and Elkhart are sending their Homeless to South Bend. She explained she is a former parole officer. She says the $1.5M is a poor use of resources for something temporary. She suggested they have just one place for 3 meals a day. She is tired of people who are eating at the Broadway Christian Parish dropping trash in people's yards as they leave.

IT UPDATE: The new website has a 20 second faster access time and is getting 2K more page visits per week. (Did not say if these were "unique visits".) There were 1,800 views for the Home Improvement Program, 311 Portal has how to pay the Water/Trash bills

PSAP (9-1-1) UPDATE: Dan O'Connor said GIS errors are continuing to be an issue. August 2nd the County decided there should be a 3 party analysis that will take 6 months. Mishawaka does not want to participate in it. County wants to take the lead on the project and is looking at a new $3M CAD system. They have issued a RFP (Request For Proposal to start bidding). 
The Fire Department is being trained on down times, but training the Police Department will involve OT and cause more budget issues.
Councilman Davis asked to see the Interlocal Agreement that shows who is responsible for each aspect of the PSAP. (PSAP is the 911 call center that is jointly use by St. Joseph County, South Bend and Mishawaka.)

CITY SATISFACTION SURVEY: The ECT Survey was conducted in April and May covering 700 randomized households. People could answer the questions by phone, online or by mail. There were over 100 people surveyed in each of the Council Districts. Maps show the opinions. Green - people felt safest, Yellow - medium safety level, Red - people feel unsafe. There was a dissatisfaction with Code Enforcement and roads.

SOUTH SHORE UPDATE: The Mayor wants the most expensive option - the Downtown location, but offered no viable details on how it would be funded. He suggested the Council approve over $100M. The Council wants to explore less expensive options that may have a higher ROI. Here are Michiana Observer's notes on the South Shore Options:  http://www.michianaobserver.com/…/southshore-train-study-up…

Bill #18-37 Rew, LLC on $144K of taxes, $110K were Abated on Lot 2, US 31 Industrial Park Phase II. Abatement is for 4 years.
Passed Favorably Unanimously

Bill #18-37 Resolution - Council expressed its objection to Honeywell not honoring paying health care benefits affecting 4,700 Retirees.
There was a 10 month lockout and now Honeywell is moving the jobs to Turkey. They currently have $7B in offshore cash and used their $3.4B from the Trump Administration to buy back $951M in stocks.
Marti Wolfson noted they got a retroactive 10 year tax abatement in 2001.

Bill # 33-18 - Historic Landmark status was established for the Civil Rights Heritage Center at 1040 W. Washington Street. It was previously the Engman Nataorium.
Passed Favorably Unanimously

Bill #26-18 New South Bend Chocolate Factory Old World Village Location - German Township, District #4, for lots 24632, 24650, 24700, 24762, 24810, 24820 on US Highway 20 and 54270 Pine Road. APC #2871-18 This annexation has 4 parts and is 13.2 acres.
South Bend Chocolate Development Corporation, Abonmarche Consulting and Ancon Construction
It is in the flight path area of the airport so building height will be restricted by the FAA. They are looking at doing a variance for roof sinage which currently is not allowed.
SB will need to annex the area into the City. It has water and will need sewer run to it. A traffic study will need to be done on Pine Road. Roads for this development will be privatel maintained, but the City will take over a portion of US 20 for this Annex.
The PUD has 5 Ordinance amendments to it. Because it is so far out they are discussing having to build another fire station to accomodate it and Portage Prairie. There was also discussion about how SBPD would cover this area. Councilwoman Jo Broden asked about the number of job opportunities.
They expect to receive some Regional Cities Funding.
NOTE: Local environmentalists are concerned about permanent damage to marsh areas that have native plants and animals.
Passed Favorably Unanimously

Bill #18-34 Portage Avenue Area - 719 and 721 W. Rex Street by the Near Northwest Neighborhood to develop low income housing on it. This is the 6th time they have applied.
The property is owned by Richard and Linda Ford who now owe $250K in back taxes on it. The development is applying for Tax Credit.
The plan is for 2 and 3 story buildings that will house 76 units. There will be 90 parking spaces available - 60 on site and 30 on the surrounding street.
Councilman Tim Scott noted his wife was the one who made the first submission on this property. 
Passed Favorably Unanimously

Bill #34-18 First Reading - Annexing in Portage Township, District 6 for 31.75 Acre Tract on West side of New Energy Drive, 350' north of State Road 23.

Bill #35-18 First Reading - Annexing in Portage Township, District 6 for 229 acre Tract north St. Joseph Valley Parkway right-of-way, 1150 feet from the intersection of 23 and the St. Joseph Valley Parkway.

Bill #36-18 First Reading - Amending Zoning for 1939 and 1947 Charles Street in District 1

Bill #37-18 First Reading - Amending Chapter 21, Article 14 - Subdivisions to delete certain lot design standards in the zoning ordinance and delete floodplain definitions that have been updated.

Bill #18-40 Resolution approving a petition of the area board of zoning appeals for the property located at 213 and 217 South Main Street.
New Business: Budget Hearing on Wednesday at 5 pm on the 4th Floor in the Informal Council Chambers

BUDGET UPDATE:
Total Budget in 2017 was $441,274,160 with a DEFICIT of $62,590,868
Total Budget in 2018 is $387,210,843 with a DEFICIT of $63,028,220
Cash Reserves in 2015 were $239,432,535 and are now down to $152,189,544 for an $87M DROP
Interest paid on debt in 2018 $12,650,388 and $30,360,110 on Principal which means $43,010,498 is tied up in debt payments this year already.
Information Source: City of South Bend 2018 Adopted Budget on page 51

7/23/18 Meeting 4th Floor of the County-City Building
Present: All Council Members
Absent: Bob Palmer, Council Attorney

14-18 Zoning Exception at 1619 S. Michigan Street, District 3 (3rd Reading)
This is the former Bonnie Doon location that now has a JJ Fish carry out in the front. They want to use the rest of the space for a used car lot business. Although there are 6 other used car lots near by, 3 muffler shops, 2 auto repair shops, Community Investment is bucking this one as "not in keeping with the plan for the area". In Committee they said they would continue it until the owners could make advised changes. At Council they took a vote instead. Mr. Conrad Damian said 23 people in the SOAR neighborhood group don't want another car lot.
Owners agreed to remove the fence from in front of the property, add parking green islands, put landscaping in the greenlawn and use existing signage
Zoning exception was denied. Oliver Davis and John Voorde voted for it, the other 7 voted against it.

25-18 Zoning Amendment at 4546, 4566 & 4612 N. Lake Blackthorn Drive, District 1(3rd Reading)
0.76 acres, Coorman Real Estate Group, Rezoned from Business to Single Family/Two family. All around this property are single family homes and they want to parcel out 3 more lots as part of this development. This is part of District #1.
Passed Favorably - Unanimously

31-18 Amending Ordinance 13-75.5(0)(6) Chapter 13, Article 5  (3rd Reading)
Concerning Disorderly Houses and Prohibiting Dealing in Marijuana, Hash Oil, Hashish, Salvia, Synthetic Drugs and Synthetic Lookalike Substances. "Disorderly Houses" is a legal term and actually includes businesses that may be selling these items. Mr. Will Smith, who is a Citizen member of this committee got up to speak in favor of the measure.
Greenwood, Indiana is another city with a similar ordinance.
Passed Favorably - Unanimously

32-18 Amending Ordinance 10546-17 (3rd Reading)
Adding new salaried and wage positions to the ordinance fixing maximum salaries and wages of appointed officers and non-bargaining employees for the 2018 Calendar year.
This pertains to the AmeriCorp Grant. It creates a DIRECTOR position at $45K-$55K per year and a GENERAL MANAGER position at $35K-$40K per year. The $150K grant will cover 66% of the cost of these and the city General Fund and Wastewater Fund will make up the difference. There will be 10 AmeriCorp workers given a Stipend to do this work. They can give their Stipend to grandchildren as an education fund. When the grant ends the City Controller says the positions will be eliminated.
Passed Favorably - Unanimously

RESOLUTIONS: 

18-26 Zoning Appeal for 1235 W. Napier to pave a nearby parking lot to accomodate a current church and a future church. 
Passed Favorably - Unanimously

18-31 5 YEAR ABATEMENT for all of these properties:
  902 N. ALLEN
1145 N. BROOKFIELD
1306 N. BROOKFIELD
  914 N. CLEVELAND
  903 N. COLLEGE
  917 N. ELMER
1101 N. ELMER
1229 N. ELMER
1329 N. HUEY
1110 N. JOHNSON
  749 N. LAWNDALE
  913 N. LAWNDALE
1138 N. OLIVE
1530 VAN BUREN
As residentially distressed area for Historic Lincolnway West Homes, LP. These 14 homes will have garages and basements.
Passed Favorably - Unanimously
NOTE: This means the Limited Partnership will not need to pay any property taxes for 5 years. This will amount to over $3M. Other taxpayers will have to make-up the difference with their taxes.

18-32 10 YEAR PROPERTY TAX ABATEMENT FOR:
South Bend Brewery Place for Historic Lincolnway West Homes, LP. This will house 22 apartments and will also qualify for Low Rent Credits from the government. Rehabing the building is estimated to be $6.4M.
Passed Favorably - Unanimously
NOTE: This means the Limited Partnership will not need to pay any property taxes for 10 years. This will amount to $1M. Other taxpayers will have to make-up the difference with their taxes

NOTE: In the last 10 years there has been over $800M in Tax Abatements. Many are 8 to 10 years, so the taxpayers will not see any tax benefit off those properties in the near future. They will need to make up the difference with thier property taxes. The reason given for these Abatements is often job creation, but records show that rarely happens.

18-35 APPROVING BUILDING LEASE FOR SOUTH BEND HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION
Located at 319 Niles Avenue in the amount of $20,825 for the next 5 years. They found none of the City properties could accomodate ADA as well. There is a 6 mos out clause should it need to be moved.
Passed Favorably - Unanimously

33-18 ZONING AMENDMENT (First Reading)
Establishing Historic Landmark Status for the Civil Rights Heritage Center, formerly known as the Engman Natatorium at 1040 W. Washington Street

18-34 ZONING APPEAL for 719 and 721 W. Rex Street. (First Reading)

NEW BUSINESS:
Councilman Oliver Davis - Would like 3 updates from the Administration. He wants the Council to recieve updates on Police incidents without having to rely on traditional media. He wants an update on the Homeless status. He wants an update on the South Shore project.

Councilwoman Karen White - After meeting with the LaSalle Neighborhood they have 5 priorities and one of them is being worked on. This is a result of the July 18th meeting.

Councilwoman Jo Broden - Wants an analysis of the PSAP (9-1-1 Call Center) funding before they head into Budget since the City and County co-fund the center. She also wants the Community Investment plans for the Southeast Area put on the agenda to be voted on since it has been over 2 years.

Councilman John Voorde - He has gotten 7 calls about the rising property tax assessments and suggested they have the County Assessor have an informational session for Citizens. He also noted this is a County function, not a City function.

PRIVILEDGE OF THE FLOOR: (Citizens are only give 3 minutes. It used to be 5 minutes. Council President Tim Scott reduced the amount of time Citizens are given for input.)
(All comments below are paraphrased summaries, not actual quotes. See Council video for exact comments.)

Mr. Jesse Davis - Wants to know what happened to over $100K in landscaping equipment the City bought but let a company use.

Mr. Jason Banciki-Critchlow - Thinks $1M should be moved from Community Development Funds to Drug Treatment. This would help people and the image of the City since investors are not impressed with seeing drug addicts in front of many businesses.

UAW Union Member - Honeywell has demoralized the workforce and the retirees. He says they now have to pay substantially more for their insurance and that money could have been spent in the community.

Pastor Kenneth Lee - 1st District - They have worked for 7 years to improve the neighborhood and get the "South Bend Home Repair Program" in their area. It cuts off at Elwood and it needs to extend further to Bendix/Lathrop since many Seniors need assistance with their roofs to keep their homes.

Ms. Thelma Williams - Far Northwest Neighborhood Association - The neighbors are working to improve the area by picking up liter and helping each other, but the City needs to help by extending the "Home Repairs" boundary and cut tall grass in the area where the raccoons are living.

Citizen - 311 Call Center is not effective. She gets no call backs and no results on compaints about trash, missing garbage cans, conditions of neighboring properties

Mr. Brown - Wants more information released about recent police incidents.

Mr. Lee Gloster - UAW Union Steward wants the Council to create a Resolution to tell Honeywell to return healthcare to retirees and stop giving them tax breaks when they are hurting thier workers and the community.

NOTE: Great to see so many Citizens participating in the process! Please keep attending and speaking up! The Mayor and Council need to hear YOUR VOICE and YOUR CONCERNS!

FROM LAST COUNCIL MEETING:

Bill #23-18 UTILITIES - They amended the Local Standard Regulations for the Water Treatment so when there is a large industrial dump of heavy metals into the waterways it can be "averaged out over a month" even though it is a health hazard to the community.
Passed Favorably - Unanimously
NOTE: This means reporting to the EPA and the Citizens will show nothing abnormal happened and heavy metal industrial waste will not show up in the graphs and data as abnormal.

For more minutes and articles:  #MichianaObserver #CitizenMedia 

​County-City Building 4th Floor, 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm
Present:  All Present

Council welcomed the new 5th District Councilman Jacob Teshka and plan to honor the outgoing Councilman Dr. David Varner on July 9th.

BILL # 14-18 Rezoning for 1619 S. Michigan Street, APC (Area Plan Commission) #2865-18

This was the Bonnie Doon location which sat vacant for around 20 years. It currently has a JJ Fish Carry out in one portion of it. They currently have 3 locations in the Michiana area.
They would like to use the rest of the location for a used car sales lot with 27 car spaces. They stated there is another used car lot only 1 block away and across the street.
This received an "Unfavorable" recommendation from the Department of Community Investment. They want to limit the number of cars and have greenery added to the location.
Mr. Feeney summarized that the "2004 Comprehensive Plan" was passed, but not the sub-plan for the South Michigan area. When he was asked about two diverse businesses in the same location he replied, "Buy a car and have dinner on us."
Since the process was started on this in May, the 90 Day decision is approaching, so this was tabled until the June 25th Council meeting with the recommendation there be further meetings before then. There is currently a 1/3 and 2/3 vote split.
Councilman Scott advised there seems to be some disconnect between Area Plan and DCI and they need to meet before the next Council meeting.

BILL # 18-25 RELEASING DOUGLAS ROAD TIF MONIES TO THE GENERAL FUND

They are currently working on the right turn lane, but that should be completed soon. The additional funds paid into this fund were released last year and they plan to do that again this year.
In 2017 there was around $379K and when the funds are released from the TIF, 40% goes into the City General Fund and the other 60% goes to other entities. This TIF will be expiring soon.

BILL #23-18 AMENDING LOCAL PRETREATMENT DISCHARGE LEVELS INTO THE RIVER

Municipal Code Chapter 17, Article 2, Division 3, Section 17-8(f) for the City's National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit that is to be done every 5 years.
Revise Section 17-8 (1) to add a Monthly Maximum Allowable Industrial Load (MAIL) requirement, distinguished from a Daily MAIL. 
The Director is authorized to establish Local Limits pursuant to 40 CFR 403.5(c) to protect the objectives specified in Sec. 17-8(a).
(3) The Director may, at the Director's sole discretion, implement local limits through allocation of the Daily Maximum Allowable Industrial Load (MAIL) and the Monthly MAIL to Significant Industrial Users. The Daily MAIL is the total daily loading of a pollutant available to be allocated to all Significant Industrial Users. The Monthly MAIL is the total loading of a pollutant available to be allocated to all  Significant Industrial Users as a monthly average. The monthly average is calculated as the sum of the concentrations of all daily discharges measured during a calendar month divided by the number of daily discharges measured that month. Daily MAILs  and Monthly MAILs for the following pollutants are hereby incorporated by reference:
Significant Industrial Users (SIU) who have not been given an allocation for one of the pollutants listed above shall notify the City of South Bend at least 90 days in advance of a change in the characteristics of their wastewater that would increase the expected concentration of that pollutant in their wastewater discharge. In addition, the City may determine at any time that an SIU wastewater discharge requires a limitation for a pollutant, regardless of the concentration levels listed below, and may then develop a limit based on the MAIL. In any case, SIU discharge that is found to contain in excess of the following concentrations will be reviewed for the need for a limit. The Director may require more sensitive analysis when results are reported as less than the following concentrations or less than greater concentrations:
Arsenic-0.2 mg/L
Cadmium-0.1 mg/L
Chromium-2.0 mg/L
Copper-0.3 mg/L
Lead-0.3 mg/L 
Nickel-0.3 mg/L
Silver-0.2 mg/L
Zinc-0.3 mg/L
Cyanide-0.1 mg/L

Council assigned review of this to the Utilities Committee.

NOTE: The City just mailed out the 2017 Summary of Water Quality Testing PWSID 5271014
This further explains contaminate levels, lead in water, aquafers and unregulated contaminants.
If you would like a copy of this report you may call 574-235-5994 or view online at bit.ly/sbww2017CCR
This does not include the release levels that occurred in the February 2018 flood.

BILL # 24-18 AMENDING CHAPTER 21, ARTICLE 2, 3 AND 7 - PARKING ON THE STREETS (NOTE:  See the May 29th Michiana Observer post for more details on this and Annexations)

Community Investment wants to make more decisions without Council approval. They said it is to "simplify" the process that is "burdensome". 
They are wanting to reduce the amount of parking required for Developers and instead move parking to the streets. Developers can count street parking towards their quota and have smaller lots, which forces patrons to park in front of homes on the street. 
Director James Mueller suggested if residents want to park in front of their homes they can purchase a parking permit. 
Councilwoman Jo Broden expressed concern about people parking around park areas where kids might have to cross the streets.
Providing bike racks is part of the new requirements. Ms. Broden asked if this would also include scooters.
If you are interested in the decision of this, plan to attend the June 25th meeting. The 1st Reading was at this meeting and often Council combines the 2nd & 3rd Readings. Next meeting will be your only chance to object.

SUGGESTIONS: Require new parking lots to use permeable concrete to reduce water runoff issues. Be sure there are special standards for residential areas.

NOTE: No mention was made of ADA Parking Spaces.

BILL # 25-18 ZONING VARIANCE - 1st Reading
Address: 4546, 4566 & 4612 N. Lake Blackthorn Drive in District #1
US 29 and Pine Road area

BILL # 26-18 ANNEXING - 1st Reading
Address: 24605 Cleveland Road in District #1

BILL # 18-23 ZONING APPEAL
Address: 117 S. William Street

BILL # 18-24 ZONING APPEAL
Address: 112 E. Indinana Avenue

REMINDER ABOUT UPCOMING TIF ADJUSTMENTS:

4 AREAS THEY WANT TO ADJUST
1. River East - to add Eddy Street ROW, Potawatomi Park/Zoo, Mishawaka Avenue Corridor, Lincolnway East/IUSB Connection
119 acres would be added
2. River West North - Add the Baney Property and the South Bend Chocolate Factory
96 acres added and 1,467 acres removed
3. River West Central - 2014 Commitments of City Cemetary, Museum Campus, Leeper Park (adding 67 acres)
Portage Avenue Shops, Mussel Grove Park, Sherman/Harrison Target Area, Leland/Scott Target Area, Riverside Drive, Lincoln Park Area, Northern Cemetary Expansion, Western Cemetary Expansion, Coal Line Phase 3, LaSalle Park and Pulaski Park
This part would add 140 acres
4. River West - South (Option 1: Expand Neighboring TIF area) with the Miami Street Corridor adding 36 acres
River West - South (Option 2: expansion and partial swap) This would involve:
1. Miami Street Corridor (River West)
2. Miami Street Corridor (South Side)
3. TIF Swap (Partial SE Master Plan)
12 acres added to River West, 24 acres added to South Side, 198 acres transferred from River West to South Side TIF

IMPORTANT NOTE: This last notation of moving into South Side TIF is to tap into the South Side funding. South Side people paid into this and they need to keep it for their area.

4. River West - South (Option 3: Full Swap)
1. Miami Street Corridor (South Side only)
2. TIF swap (Full SE Master Plan) where 36 acres is added to the South Side and 551 acres are swapped from River West to South Side

IMPORTANT NOTE: This would move funding away from the South Side to the River West

CITIZEN COMMENTS:

Mr. Harry Marsh is not pleased with the trailors across from Ivy Tech and wants the Council to come out and examine the ongoing issues.

Mr. Jesse Davis says the City is letting vendors/contractors monopolize business and then they can charge exorbitant rates. He cited a Tow Bill & Yard Bill is Daughter-in-law received after an accident that ended up totalling $1,400. He said it used to be there was a rotating list of vendors to spread out the business and keep fees in check.

Mr. Brown is concerned that nothing is being done about a local drug house, even when SBPD and State Police have been asked to intervene. He's tired of his neighborhood being shot up. He also wants more clean-up. 

OLD BUSINESS: Councilman Davis asked for an update on the Ardmore issue.

SPECIAL PRESENTATION: Mr. Andrew Berlin on the Cubs Franchise in South Bend
They bought it on 11/11/11 at 11:11 am as a good omen.
They signed a 20 year deal with the City.
In the 7th Season it moved from the Silver Hawks to the Cubs.
Four Winds won the "Best Ball Park" national award.
His Goals include: Great baseball, thrilling memories for fans and revitalizaing South Bend.
He is looking forward to having a space in the new condos he is building outside the ball park.
NOTE: He was given the property for $1, TIF monies and abatements. For the building of these he did not use local labor unions.
(See slides for more details.)

For more meetings and articles: #MichianaObserver #CitizenMedia #MySouthBend

May 29, 2018, 4 pm, County-City Building, 4th Floor 
Absent: Sharon McBride

**IMPORTANT NOTES ON TIF CHANGES BELOW**

Bill #22-18 Alley Vacation - First North/South Alley West of Carroll Street, East of Michigan Street, South of Bronson Street, North of Penn Central Railroad. It's the former Curtis Products building opposite the License Branch. They want it to combine with the lot across from it for a sale.

Ms. Casey Colvin was introduced. She is the new Council PR Intern. This is a full-time position. Council budgeted $36,840 for the position last year.

PARKING ON THE STREETS 
Community Investment wants to make more decisions without Council approval. They said it is to "simplify" the process that is "burdensome". 
They are wanting to reduce the amount of parking required for Developers and instead move parking to the streets. Developers can count street parking towards their quota and have smaller lots, which forces patrons to park in front of homes on the street. 
Director James Mueller suggested if residents want to park in front of their homes they can purchase a parking permit. Jo Broden expressed concern about people parking around park areas where kids might have to cross the streets.
Providing bike racks is part of the new requirements. Ms. Broden asked if this would also include scooters.
If you are interested in the decision of this, plan to attend the June 19th and June 25th meetings.

SUGGESTION: Require new parking lots to use permeable concrete to reduce water runoff issues. Be sure there are special standards for residential areas.

SUBDIVISION ORDINANCE CHANGES
Community Investment also wants to change standards set in 2004 that require since single family homes to have a 40' frontage. They say it conflicts with the 2015 Flood Plain Ordinance. They want to change the Depth to Width ratio changed and have concerns about Retail buying their locations in industrial area and not having frontage.
They asked that these changes be "fast tracked". Tim Scott advised them there would need to be more time to evaluate their request.

NOTE:  For the COMPLETE LIST of over 25 changes Community Investment is requesting, see the MICHIANA OBSERVER Post on November 28, 2017.

UPDATE ON POTENTIAL ANNEXATIONS
Presented by Community Investment

ANNEXATION CRITERIA
* Voluntary (property owner signs, files petition)
* Utilization of City Services (sewer and water)
* Adds to the Tax Base
* Creates a positive fiscal impact to the City budget (i.e. Future development pays for standard City services and capital cost of infrastructure improvements)

STATE LAW CRITERIA
* Boundary of annexation area is at least one-eighth contiguous to existing City limits
* Subject to an adopted fiscal plan
* Able to provide City services (noncapital within 1 year, capital within 3 years)
* Approved more than a year before a decadal Census
NOTE: Community Investment is asking Council to rush some decisions due to this last requirement

ANNEXATION PROCESS
Voluntary annexations take about 4 months, in voluntary about 9 months
Voluntary includes:
* Property Owner files the petition
* Council 1st reading
* Area Plan Commission Hearing on Zoning (if not SF1)
* Council 2nd Reading/Public Hearing
* Council Adoption of Fiscal Plan
* Council 3rd Reading/Approval (minimum 14 days after 2nd Reading)
* Legal Advertising
* Annexation takes effect 30 days after advertising

3 NEW ANNEXATIONS BEING CONSIDERED NOW
1. South Bend Chocolate Expansion
2. Southwest Parcel - Industrial - Currently a field near the Bypass and Casino
3. North Twyckenham Drive - Annexing the "Overlook" apartments where they can expand the South Bend tax base

UPDATE ON POTENTIAL TIF AREA ADJUSTMENTS (TIF = Tax Incremental Financing Redevelopment Statute IC 36-7-14 in 1975)
Presented by Community Investment

Policy Goals: Productivity, Inclusion, Placemaking, Sustainability

4 AREAS THEY WANT TO ADJUST
1. River East - to add Eddy Street ROW, Potawatomi Park/Zoo, Mishawaka Avenue Corridor, Lincolnway East/IUSB Connection
119 acres would be added
2. River West North - Add the Baney Property and the South Bend Chocolate Factory
96 acres added and 1,467 acres removed
3. River West Central - 2014 Commitments of City Cemetary, Museum Campus, Leeper Park (adding 67 acres)
Portage Avenue Shops, Mussel Grove Park, Sherman/Harrison Target Area, Leland/Scott Target Area, Riverside Drive, Lincoln Park Area, Northern Cemetary Expansion, Western Cemetary Expansion, Coal Line Phase 3, LaSalle Park and Pulaski Park
This part would add 140 acres
4. River West - South (Option 1: Expand Neighboring TIF area) with the Miami Street Corridor adding 36 acres
River West - South (Option 2: expansion and partial swap) This would involve:
1. Miami Street Corridor (River West)
2. Miami Street Corridor (South Side)
3. TIF Swap (Partial SE Master Plan)
12 acres added to River West, 24 acres added to South Side, 198 acres transferred from River West to South Side TIF

IMPORTANT NOTE: This last notation of moving into South Side TIF is to tap into the South Side funding. South Side people paid into this and they need to keep it for their area.

4. River West - South (Option 3: Full Swap)
1. Miami Street Corridor (South Side only)
2. TIF swap (Full SE Master Plan) where 36 acres is added to the South Side and 551 acres are swapped from River West to South Side

IMPORTANT NOTE: This would move funding away from the South Side to the River West

CITIZEN INPUT: Mr. James Bognar detailed with a spreadsheet and considerable research how the West Washington TIF was not used as intended and full disclosure of TIF Details have not been presented to the public per a Council Resolution.
He noted "best practices" would mean 80% of the TIF's would be for Infrastructure such as curbs, sidewalks, lighting, roads and not private investment properties. He cited an IU study. He further noted Community Investment called the area one with "rampant blight", but that is not where the investments went.

IT UPDATE
* The 6 Divisions were highlighted
* City received $500K from the Walmart/Google Lifelong Learning Grant
* 311 gets 40 calls a day on Code Enforcement related issues
* In 2017 there were 3,792 calls about County issues
* They are continuing to work on infrastucture issues 
* Plan to roll out a new City website this summer
* Reviewing tech options with PSAP (911 Call Center)

NOTE: Data portals for Citizen use have been reduced from 200 to 60. A main one that is no longer available is the "Open Checkbook" where Citizens can see what payments were made by the City.

Ms. Karen White Announcements:
1. Wednesday at 3 pm at the SBPD will be a Budget Kickoff Meeting
2. There will be a meeting about Synthetic Drug use in the Council Informal Chambers at 4 pm on Thursday

Ms. Jo Broden Announcements:
1. FEMA will be at the Leighton Center until July 5th to assist residents
2. FEMA will be at Brown Primary Center on Wednesday at 7 pm to meet with residents

For more articles and meetings: #MichianaObserver #CivicMedia #MySouthBend