04-27-2026 Common Council Meeting Recording

The South Bend Common Council meeting on April 27, 2026, included significant discussions on procurement and contracting related to minority and women-owned business enterprise (MWBE) programs and economic development projects. Presentations highlighted the Small Business Assistance Suite program, which supports minority business certification and contract readiness to increase city contracting opportunities for local small businesses. The council also reviewed proposed changes to the MWBE program plan, including raising the dollar threshold for contract goals from $50,000 to $150,000 to align with state law, and implementing post-award accountability measures with financial penalties for contractors failing to meet MWBE participation goals. Additionally, the council approved a six-year real property tax abatement for the Cascade Phase 2 mixed-use development project, valued at approximately $50 million, expected to create 15 jobs and generate significant tax revenue over time. Several zoning ordinance amendments were also favorably recommended and advanced. The meeting included motions and votes approving these procurement-related initiatives and ordinances, reflecting the city’s ongoing efforts to enhance inclusive contracting and economic revitalization.