Committee Approves $7.5M Grant for Kennedy Park and $1.3M for New City Hall

The South Bend City Council Committees convened on March 10, 2025, to discuss several key budgetary adjustments that aim to enhance community services and infrastructure. A significant focus of the meeting was the realignment of funds within the city’s budget to better reflect the new structure of the Volunteer Program Administration (VPA). This adjustment involves transferring budgets from community grants to community initiatives, ensuring that resources are effectively allocated to meet the city's evolving needs.

Another major topic was the approval of a budget transfer of $81,208 from the Administration and Finance Department to the Legal Department. This transfer is intended to cover personnel expenses for the Office of the City Clerk, which operates within the legal framework of the city government.

The committee also reviewed Substitute Bill 12-25, which received a favorable recommendation for further consideration by the Committee of the Whole. No public comments were made in favor or against the bill during the public hearing segment, indicating a lack of opposition to the proposed changes.

Additionally, the council discussed Bill 13-25, which includes a $7.5 million appropriation for the Kennedy Park Grant. Although federal funding for this grant is currently paused, city officials expressed confidence in receiving the award and sought local approval to expedite the process once the federal agreement is finalized. This proactive approach aims to prevent delays in project implementation.

Further appropriations discussed included $1.3 million for furnishing the new City Hall Building and $1.4 million for utility expenses related to streets and sewers. The latter funding was previously overlooked during the budget cycle and is essential for maintaining city infrastructure.

The meeting underscored the city council's commitment to addressing community needs through careful financial planning and timely appropriations. As these budgetary measures move forward, they are expected to enhance city services and support ongoing projects that benefit South Bend residents.