Council adopts special-exception to allow pre-K center at 1114 Mayflower Road

The South Bend Common Council on July 28 adopted an ordinance approving a special-exception petition to permit an early‑childhood pre‑K program at 1114 Mayflower Road.

City zoning staff told the council the building has served as a daycare in the past and that the requested use — listed in the zoning code as “pre‑K, primary or secondary” — is appropriate for the existing structure and compatible with the neighborhood and the city’s comprehensive plan. Petitioner David Turner told council members he plans a program serving infants through 5‑year‑olds with a rolling enrollment capped at about 40 seats and said the operation will be a business (not a ministry) that will accept vouchers.

Why it matters: The project would restore a child‑care use to an existing building in a residential area and add pre‑K capacity in Council District 6. Council members asked how many seats the facility will offer, how it will serve children with developmental needs, and what staff qualifications the petitioner expects to have.

Mark Delaistritto, a city zoning specialist, said the petition requests a special exception under section 21 0 6 0 1 f 11 of the city zoning code and that the use is consistent with Comprehensive Plan guidance to coordinate with schools and institutions. Turner told council members the facility would not be a formal K‑12 school but an engaging daycare-style pre‑K program for children from about six weeks to 5 years, estimating no more than 40 seats and a rolling enrollment. He said he expects to pursue state credentialing and initially aims for a Level 2 or 3 pathway under state quality ratings.

Council discussion focused on access, equity and services. Vice President Thomas Morgan and other members pressed Turner on the number and ages of seats and whether the program will accept voucher recipients; Turner said the program will accept vouchers and intends to serve families from the surrounding neighborhood. Council member Bolton Simpson asked about neighborhood access; Turner said neighborhood families are intended to be served and that the operation will prioritize equity in enrollment. Members also asked whether the program will accommodate children with speech, developmental or IEP‑level needs; Turner said plans for specific service partnerships and accommodations are not finalized but that the program intends to provide family forums, parent engagement and individualized supports where appropriate.

Public commenters spoke in favor. Steve Castle (422 Kennedy Drive) urged attention to early literacy. Peggy Foster (business address listed) recommended phonemic‑awareness instruction at the preschool level. Turner replied that the program plans intentional literacy supports and family engagement activities.

Committee and final votes: The Zoning and Annexation Committee recommended the bill favorably. The committee of the whole sent Bill 30‑25 to the full council with a favorable recommendation by roll call (9–0). On third reading the full council adopted Bill 30‑25 by roll call (9–0); the ordinance was recorded as adopted later in the meeting.

Next steps: With adoption complete, the petitioner may proceed with permitting and state licensing steps required to open as an early‑childhood center.