Council adopts LaSalle Park neighborhood plan after staff presentation and public support

The Common Council voted to adopt substitute resolution 25‑52, approving the LaSalle Park neighborhood plan (also referenced as Westaff Park in the reading). Christopher Dressel of the Department of Community Investment presented the plan’s history and goals, framing it as a 20‑year physical plan that addresses public and private property, marsh‑bottom topography and long‑term neighborhood infrastructure needs.

"Plan this plan is meant to be a physical plan," Dressel said, describing the plan’s focus on public rights of way, parks and site‑level partnerships. Planner Hannah Shrenian outlined 12 proposed projects concentrated in three categories: housing (four projects, including priority infill and a townhome concept for a Kenmore/Washington block), green space (walking trails, a lake aeration bubbler, a dock and a tree‑nursery concept for underutilized lots) and infrastructure (street reconnections, traffic calming and streetscape improvements). Shrenian also described proposed zoning adjustments that would convert select U1 parcels to U2 (allowing duplexes and up to four units and accessory dwelling units) and change some commercial parcels on Western Avenue to neighborhood‑center zoning to restrict automotive retailers, gas stations and liquor stores.

Shrenian said the implementation matrix assigns lead responsibilities (for example, Linden Avenue improvements would be city‑led), potential partners (LaSalle Park Neighborhood Association, property owners, financial institutions) and timeframes (1–5 years, 5–10 years, 10+ years).

During the public hearing, Stacy Odom (209 East Bronson Street) urged adoption and offered neighborhood support: she said residents and community developers are "looking forward to working with the city of South Bend to further our community." Council members praised the outreach process and neighborhood engagement that informed the plan.

After discussion, a council member moved to adopt substitute bill 25‑52. Clerk called the roll; the resolution passed with seven ayes and was adopted. The council thanked staff and neighborhood leaders and indicated the plan will guide future implementation and partnership work.

Authorities and next steps: the clerk read the resolution title referencing the council’s approval of the Westaff Park neighborhood plan; implementation will proceed via the plan’s action matrix and future project‑level funding or ordinance changes as needed.