Redevelopment Commission Meeting 10/26/26

The City of Mishawaka Redevelopment Commission meeting on October 26, 2026, approved Resolution 2026-12, setting department staff salaries effective January 2 in line with the Common Council’s approved 2027 budget. The commission also voted to accept a West End forgivable loan; the transcript does not specify the amount. The commission discussed proposed property acquisitions on South Union Street at $194,500 and $135,000, respectively. The first price is subject to appraisal, with the commission to revisit the price if the appraisal is lower. The transcript does not clearly capture the motions or vote outcomes for these purchase proposals. A separate agreement was discussed for the former Bishwak Hardware building and two associated lots, at a price matching the assessed valuation; no dollar amount is stated.

The commission also discussed redevelopment planning for the roughly five-acre former South Bend Modern Molding site, including rubble, heavy-metal concentrations, a deed restriction, and the need for further environmental investigation. Officials said extensive removal and backfilling could cost millions of dollars, and they are exploring options to limit costs and potential brownfields funding. Possible future uses include single-family housing, townhouses, or a mix; no final plan or remediation contract was identified.