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Council approves four special exceptions to add duplexes, advancing housing projects and a 92‑unit Lincoln Park plan
Summary
On unanimous votes, the South Bend Common Council forwarded and then adopted four zoning special-exception petitions that clear the way for multiple two-unit dwellings in Lincoln Park, Kennedy Park and other neighborhoods; the measures are part of a city effort to reactivate long-vacant lots and advance affordable homeownership and rentals.
The South Bend Common Council reviewed multiple zoning petitions in Committee of the Whole and approved them on final (third) readings, each by unanimous 9-0 votes.
Bill 17-26 (812 Oak Street) came with a favorable committee recommendation after Tim Staub, the city's zoning specialist, described the request as a two-unit duplex consistent with the comprehensive plan and reactivating a parcel vacant for more than 15 years. Petitioner Jose Guevara described the duplex as rental housing and said initial site work would include a gravel back-yard parking area; the council advanced the petition with a favorable recommendation and later adopted the ordinance on third reading.
Bill 23-26 (2525 Bertrand Street) was presented by Staub and petitioner Cynthia Menet (Omi LLC), who said the two-unit structure would be rental housing intended to increase affordable stock; the council voted to advance and then adopt the measure.
Bill 24-26 (1110 North Huey Street) would convert a single-family nuisance property into a duplex; petitioner Dr. Consuela Hopkins said the renovation made economic sense and would return the home to safe occupancy. The council approved it with a favorable recommendation and adopted the ordinance on third reading.
Bill 25-26 (505 & 507 Blaine Street) is part of a five-year partnership to build up to 92 new affordable homes in the Lincoln Park neighborhood; petitioner Bennett Benzman said the two attached units are intended for affordable homeownership. Council members praised the mix of homeownership and ownership opportunities and approved the bill.
Each of the four zoning petitions passed final votes recorded as nine ayes, with council members individually recorded during roll call. Council members emphasized the benefit of activating vacant city-owned lots and expanding mixed housing types to support neighborhood revitalization.
