Common Council 10-19-26

The Mishawaka Common Council’s regular meeting on October 19, 2026, approved several development and regulatory measures. The council voted 9–0 to approve an economic revitalization area declaration for Furrow Flats, a proposed 224-apartment development with an estimated investment of about $49–50 million. The developer described a plan to use local subcontractors, including an estimated $15 million in local excavation, asphalt, concrete, and related work. The council amended the declaration to clarify a three-year period; the proposed tax-abatement schedule described at the meeting would phase out over five years, with a confirming resolution expected November 9. The council also approved, 9–0, a conditional use for INSERV/SER Real Estate’s alternative-fuel production at 1711 Clover Road, subject to conditions including indoor storage of fuel-production materials. The company said the operation would process nonhazardous industrial materials for cement kilns and could add 30–35 employees as it expands.

The council passed the 2027 civil city budget and tax levy 9–0, described as a status-quo budget with an increase of less than 1%, and approved salary ordinances, including a 3.85% raise for most full-time employees and proposed adjustments in selected departments. It also passed 9–0 a residential rental registration and inspection ordinance, establishing a $5 registration fee and a $150 inspection fee, with a full-time inspector already budgeted; the administration agreed to report on implementation. The annexation and rezoning at 15467 Douglas Road passed 9–0, with no capital needs identified. The proposed EMS fee ordinance was postponed to November 9. No contract awards or competitive purchasing decisions were identified.