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Council approves vacation of 3.7 feet of Napoleon Street to allow two owner-occupied homes
Summary
The South Bend Common Council voted 8–0 to vacate the southern 3.7 feet of Napoleon Street between St. Louis Boulevard and St. Peter Street, allowing the lot to be widened and split for construction of two owner‑occupied houses; supporters said ADA improvements and preservation of a tree lawn will be part of plans.
The South Bend Common Council voted unanimously to adopt Bill 28‑26, an ordinance vacating the southern 3.7 feet of Napoleon Street between St. Louis Boulevard and St. Peter Street, to allow an existing parcel to be widened and split for construction of two owner‑occupied homes.
Chris Gadookski of Evan Marsh Consultants, representing petitioners David and Jennifer Lewig and co‑petitioner Andy Slagert, told council members the vacation would widen the lot and still leave a “sizable green area” between the built area and the street. Builder Craig Telman of Capstone Design and Build said the two proposed houses were designed to fit the neighborhood’s character and that the project team is familiar with local requirements.
Petitioner David J. Lewig said the owners and builders intend the homes to be owner‑occupied and noted Greater Holy Temple Church is listed on the petition; Pastor Lee Ross spoke at the public hearing in favor, saying the sidewalk movement will not affect the church’s property and will help neighborhood aesthetics.
During council questioning, Dr. Davis pressed the builder on sidewalk alignment and ADA access; Telman said a corner ADA ramp and alignment improvements are planned. The petitioner’s presentation estimated that the tree lawn would shrink from about 24 feet to roughly 20–21 feet but remain a substantial green buffer.
After the committee of the whole gave a favorable recommendation, the full council conducted a third reading and passed the ordinance on roll call with eight ayes.
Action details: the committee forwarded Bill 28‑26 to the full council with a favorable recommendation; a third‑reading vote in the full council adopted the ordinance, releasing the petitioners to proceed with permitting.
