This is an artist rendering of the facade of a proposed 12-story mixed use building on East LaSalle Avenue offered by developer Dave Matthews, which the South Bend Common Council rejected Monday, Dec. 12, 2016. Image provided
SOUTH BEND — The South Bend Common Council Monday night narrowly voted to deny a 12-story apartment high-rise in the East Bank area.
The 5-4 vote against the project, proposed by developer David Matthews, came after more than three hours of debate and questions by council members. The project would have included a ground floor Martin's Super Market and pharmacy.
"I don't know where we go from here," Matthews said. "This is embarrassing for the city. I'm shocked."
Voting against the project were council members Jo Broden, in whose district the site lies, Regina Preston, Oliver Davis, John Voorde and Karen White. Voting for it were Randy Kelly, David Varner, Gavin Ferlic and Tim Scott.
Council members voting "no" said they supported the concept, especially a downtown grocery, but the building's height would far exceed limits set in a comprehensive plan for the East Bank that the council passed in 2008.
Opponents said they feared they couldn't require future developers to follow the city's comprehensive plan if they allowed Matthews' project.
Copyright © 2024, South Bend Tribune