New construction of Wallgreens in the heart of Benton Harbor.
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
ST. JOSEPH
$78 million project OK’d
Condo, townhouse development to begin early next year on Morrison Channel
By SARAH Mc EVILLY
H-PStaff Writer
ST. JOSEPH — Construction on a $78 million condominium and townhouse project is set to begin early next year, after the St. Joseph City Commission approved the development Monday night.
The new community, called Windward Isle at Ender’s Landing, will be across Morrison Channel from Clementine’s Too restaurant, sitting on about 25 acres.
The main entrance will be on Anchor’s Way, adjacent to Pier 33.
The City Commission unanimously approved a special use permit for the development, following a recommendation by the Planning Commission earlier this month.
The complex was proposed by Signature Island Group of Stevensville.
Windward Isle will be a gated community and have four three-story
townhouse buildings, each with six units, representatives from the project said. There will be four eight-story condominium buildings, with parking on the first floor and 26 units in each building.
The buildings will surround 137 to 145 boat slips and a marina. Units will be priced at $500,000 to $1.3 million, project representatives said.
At one end of the property are wetlands, which project leaders said will be cleaned up and turned into a conservation area. There also will be a pool and clubhouse.
In other business, the commission approved changing the name of the public works department. Director Derek Perry said Department of Public Services better suits what his department does.
“It’s one of those things I feel public service is, and what the department is all about,” Perry said.
The Department of Public Services, at 1160 Broad St., includes parks and grounds, streets and sanitation, water and sewer, and hydrant flow testing.
$78 million project OK’d
Condo, townhouse development to begin early next year on Morrison Channel
By SARAH Mc EVILLY
H-PStaff Writer
ST. JOSEPH — Construction on a $78 million condominium and townhouse project is set to begin early next year, after the St. Joseph City Commission approved the development Monday night.
The new community, called Windward Isle at Ender’s Landing, will be across Morrison Channel from Clementine’s Too restaurant, sitting on about 25 acres.
The main entrance will be on Anchor’s Way, adjacent to Pier 33.
The City Commission unanimously approved a special use permit for the development, following a recommendation by the Planning Commission earlier this month.
The complex was proposed by Signature Island Group of Stevensville.
Windward Isle will be a gated community and have four three-story
townhouse buildings, each with six units, representatives from the project said. There will be four eight-story condominium buildings, with parking on the first floor and 26 units in each building.
The buildings will surround 137 to 145 boat slips and a marina. Units will be priced at $500,000 to $1.3 million, project representatives said.
At one end of the property are wetlands, which project leaders said will be cleaned up and turned into a conservation area. There also will be a pool and clubhouse.
In other business, the commission approved changing the name of the public works department. Director Derek Perry said Department of Public Services better suits what his department does.
“It’s one of those things I feel public service is, and what the department is all about,” Perry said.
The Department of Public Services, at 1160 Broad St., includes parks and grounds, streets and sanitation, water and sewer, and hydrant flow testing.
BENTON HARBOR
Harbor Shores cleanup work clears hurdle
By JULIE SWIDWA
H-PStaff Writer
BENTON HARBOR — The Benton Harbor City Commission helped clear the way Monday for developers to seek financing for cleanup work, roads and other improvements related to the Harbor Shores project.
An amendment to the Berrien County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority Brownfield Plan, approved recently by the Berrien County Board of Commissioners, adds most of the 570-acre Harbor Shores project area into the county’s brownfield plan.
The Benton Harbor City Commission on Monday approved the same amendment, adding the parcels in Benton Harbor into the county’s brownfield plan.
Harbor Shores is a proposed, mixed-use, $500 million development that would include 850 new residential housing units, commercial and retail space, four marinas, two hotels, a water park and a golf course.
Much of the project area, near Michigan 63 north of Graham Avenue and west of the CSX Transportation Co. railroad tracks, sits on old factory sites that are contaminated. Parcels that are included in brownfield redevelopment plans can qualify for state and federal funds for cleanup.
The amended county brownfield plan will allow Harbor Shores to go forward with an estimated $ 126.1 million in cleanup and site preparation, demolition, construction of streets, sidewalks and other infrastructure.
The brownfield status will allow Harbor Shores Community Redevelopment, a nonprofit corporation, to be repaid for the cleanup and infrastructure costs through tax increment financing.
Future tax revenue on new
Top
construction and other improvements in the project area can be “captured” to repay the investment.
City Manager Dwight “Pete” Mitchell said the improvements will include $72 million in new infrastructure. The infrastructure is expected to be completed within five years, with building construction starting sometime during that period
MPRI report
Also Monday, the City Commission heard a presentation by Peggy Schaffer, Berrien County community coordinator for the Michigan Prisoner Re-Entry Initiative; and Rojelio Castillo, supervisor of the Berrien County Parole Office.
The MPRI began a year ago, with Berrien County as one of eight pilot sites in the state. The program’s purpose is to provide prisoners with the tools they need to be successful and remain crime-free after they are released from prison.
The long-term goal of the MPRI is to reduce prison recidivism rates and cut state costs. Schaffer said plans call for the program to be operating in all 83 counties by 2008.
The state spends $ 28,000 to $ 32,000 a year to incarcerate one person, compared to $2,000 to $ 3,000 for a parolee in the MPRI program.
The MPRI provides help in finding jobs and housing, obtaining education and vocational training, fighting substance abuse, obtaining health care and transportation.
Statewide, 48 percent of parolees go back to prison within two years for new crimes or parole violations.
Schaffer said in Berrien County, the MPRI has served 217 parolees since its beginning and just 18 have returned to prison.
“We’re at 8 percent recidivism right now. We’re very excited about the results, but we realize we’re comparing nine months to two years,” Schaffer said.
Harbor Shores cleanup work clears hurdle
By JULIE SWIDWA
H-PStaff Writer
BENTON HARBOR — The Benton Harbor City Commission helped clear the way Monday for developers to seek financing for cleanup work, roads and other improvements related to the Harbor Shores project.
An amendment to the Berrien County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority Brownfield Plan, approved recently by the Berrien County Board of Commissioners, adds most of the 570-acre Harbor Shores project area into the county’s brownfield plan.
The Benton Harbor City Commission on Monday approved the same amendment, adding the parcels in Benton Harbor into the county’s brownfield plan.
Harbor Shores is a proposed, mixed-use, $500 million development that would include 850 new residential housing units, commercial and retail space, four marinas, two hotels, a water park and a golf course.
Much of the project area, near Michigan 63 north of Graham Avenue and west of the CSX Transportation Co. railroad tracks, sits on old factory sites that are contaminated. Parcels that are included in brownfield redevelopment plans can qualify for state and federal funds for cleanup.
The amended county brownfield plan will allow Harbor Shores to go forward with an estimated $ 126.1 million in cleanup and site preparation, demolition, construction of streets, sidewalks and other infrastructure.
The brownfield status will allow Harbor Shores Community Redevelopment, a nonprofit corporation, to be repaid for the cleanup and infrastructure costs through tax increment financing.
Future tax revenue on new
Top
construction and other improvements in the project area can be “captured” to repay the investment.
City Manager Dwight “Pete” Mitchell said the improvements will include $72 million in new infrastructure. The infrastructure is expected to be completed within five years, with building construction starting sometime during that period
MPRI report
Also Monday, the City Commission heard a presentation by Peggy Schaffer, Berrien County community coordinator for the Michigan Prisoner Re-Entry Initiative; and Rojelio Castillo, supervisor of the Berrien County Parole Office.
The MPRI began a year ago, with Berrien County as one of eight pilot sites in the state. The program’s purpose is to provide prisoners with the tools they need to be successful and remain crime-free after they are released from prison.
The long-term goal of the MPRI is to reduce prison recidivism rates and cut state costs. Schaffer said plans call for the program to be operating in all 83 counties by 2008.
The state spends $ 28,000 to $ 32,000 a year to incarcerate one person, compared to $2,000 to $ 3,000 for a parolee in the MPRI program.
The MPRI provides help in finding jobs and housing, obtaining education and vocational training, fighting substance abuse, obtaining health care and transportation.
Statewide, 48 percent of parolees go back to prison within two years for new crimes or parole violations.
Schaffer said in Berrien County, the MPRI has served 217 parolees since its beginning and just 18 have returned to prison.
“We’re at 8 percent recidivism right now. We’re very excited about the results, but we realize we’re comparing nine months to two years,” Schaffer said.
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Luxurious new condominiums in downtown St. Joseph. Close to all amenities including Silver Beach. Take the elevator to your state-of-the art condominium home. Large roof deck with expansive views of downtown St. Joe and surrounding areas. Private deck for unit owner. Nearby parking for owners & guests. Condos are currently under construction - some customization is possible. Kathleen and Carl have a buyer that is planning their condo on a third floor, presently being added to the top of a two story building. Call us for floor plans, and other homes in the beautiful downtown area by Lake Michigan.
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
Benton Harbor's Fairplain Plaza is Purchased
Coventry/DDR purchased the entire Fairplain Plaza at a cost of $26-million dollars. The shopping center is already home to Target, T.J. Maxx, Old Navy, Dunham's Sports, Office Depot, Pier One Imports, Rite Aid, and many more. The new owner plans to invest another $10-million!
Leath Furniture is a Benton Harbor landmark. For 58 years the store has done well. Of the 26 locations, Benton Harbor was the 4th. most profitable last year. As a result Leath has made this local store, a prime location, and doubled their store size.
Coventry/DDR purchased the entire Fairplain Plaza at a cost of $26-million dollars. The shopping center is already home to Target, T.J. Maxx, Old Navy, Dunham's Sports, Office Depot, Pier One Imports, Rite Aid, and many more. The new owner plans to invest another $10-million!
Leath Furniture is a Benton Harbor landmark. For 58 years the store has done well. Of the 26 locations, Benton Harbor was the 4th. most profitable last year. As a result Leath has made this local store, a prime location, and doubled their store size.
Friday, May 19, 2006
What's New Downtown Saint Joseph
There is a lot of activity going on downtown. It’s a “who’s who” involved in moving to new locations, opening of new businesses and employees becoming owners. All exciting and good things!
Kilwins’s has moved across the street from the 300 block to the 200 block. DK Boutique has moved from the corner of State and Broad to the 200 block. Bobbie Gertel sold Bloomies, Etc. to employee Nick Hansen who is bringing in gourmet foods and will sell wine in the future. Nick has changed the name to Bloomies Flower Studio. Bobbie has kept Gertel’s Decorating and has not retired, but is busy as usual. We are delighted to welcome Stephanie Hemstead with Gotta Go Pottery and Hug “n” Stuff on Broad St., Hollie Blakeney with Chartreuse Studio & Gallery on Pleasant, and Jaime Longoria with Rio’s Mexican Food on Pleasant.
Opening soon is a new ladies boutique, in with Landis and V&A Bootery. They will not share the space but a separate store (within the store) is being constructed. A beauty shop is moving into the space across from newcomer Rio’s on the other side of the Pleasant Street alley. Nearly every space downtown is now occupied, so we should pretty much have a full house for the summer. Another new business to the area is being signed and we will look forward to that announcement soon.
There is a lot of activity going on downtown. It’s a “who’s who” involved in moving to new locations, opening of new businesses and employees becoming owners. All exciting and good things!
Kilwins’s has moved across the street from the 300 block to the 200 block. DK Boutique has moved from the corner of State and Broad to the 200 block. Bobbie Gertel sold Bloomies, Etc. to employee Nick Hansen who is bringing in gourmet foods and will sell wine in the future. Nick has changed the name to Bloomies Flower Studio. Bobbie has kept Gertel’s Decorating and has not retired, but is busy as usual. We are delighted to welcome Stephanie Hemstead with Gotta Go Pottery and Hug “n” Stuff on Broad St., Hollie Blakeney with Chartreuse Studio & Gallery on Pleasant, and Jaime Longoria with Rio’s Mexican Food on Pleasant.
Opening soon is a new ladies boutique, in with Landis and V&A Bootery. They will not share the space but a separate store (within the store) is being constructed. A beauty shop is moving into the space across from newcomer Rio’s on the other side of the Pleasant Street alley. Nearly every space downtown is now occupied, so we should pretty much have a full house for the summer. Another new business to the area is being signed and we will look forward to that announcement soon.
Wednesday, May 17, 2006
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
Benton Harbor is building a 3rd. new building at the mall, all in the last 6 months. Kohls will be the business moving in this fall. With the 500 acre Harbor Shore development having started, all is in place for the many support businesses to begin looking for available sites in outlining areas. Benton Harbor and Saint Joseph have become two communities working together. Housing starts have increased in anticipation of the large influx of workers that will be in the area over the next ten years. Chicago residents are finding that our area is keeping the small town charm, while expanding the business community in outlining areas. For more information e-mail CarlBrecht@netscape.net
Tuesday, May 09, 2006
Historic Saint Joseph was founded by Germans coming to an area rich in soil and shipping. Over the years many from around the country found a town that has remained peaceful and just a bit slower than the rest of the world. A city that has become a destination to be highly regarded as a place to retire. Lake Michigan that has a beach known as one of America’s top ten. A secret in Saint Joseph is Taste of Europe. The finest in European foods and pastries. Located at 822 Main St. The entrance is in a small cottage on Price St. You may want to call first and ask for either Mira or Tom Spirov at 982-1776. In warm weather you may sit out. Catering is available.
Soon you will see Saint Joseph and Benton Harbor come to life. An area of 500 acres just north of town will see the beginning of a Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course. Included this area will be an array of housing and shops. Marzke Realty will be the only local developer. For further information, please e-mail CarlBrecht@netscape.net
Two Romantic Places to stay
South Cliff Inn, is a Bed & Breakfast located at 1900 Lakeshore Dr. St. Joseph with views of the lake. 269-983-4881
Boulevard Inn & Bistro, views of the lake. 521 Lake Blvd. St. Joseph 269-983-6600
Benton Harbor Sunrise Rotary built a new home on Hull Street. Meeting the new family after the home was built brought smiles and tears to many. This home was built through Habitat for Humanity by Rotarians throughout the area in just four days. The park across the street is presently getting a face lift. What makes these homes affordable is the homeowners have a mortgage without the interest. For investment opportunities, please e-mailcarlbrecht@netscape.net
Monday, May 08, 2006
New restoration project will begin this summer. A client is purchasing this historical home on Pipestone in Benton Harbor. The color photo is from a post card from the early 1900's. As you can see from the present photo the front porch will need to be reconstructed. The interior woodwork has never been painted, which will make restoration much easier. There shall be future updates on one of Benton Harbor's fine homes. For more information on other homes, please feel free to e-mail or call directly, Carl Brecht at 269-449-1656
Living in Saint Joseph, Michigan.
With over 26 years experience in real estate, the Brecht Team is here to offer you more. Living in town on State street, we are in the heart of town. We have an extensive education, which includes contract and property law, in law school. Kathleen specializes in residential buyers and sellers while Carl’s focus is in Commercial real estate. Browse the Benton Spirit for the latest commercial listings. Our web-site is www.BrechtTeam.com. With extensive listings on www.loopnet.com and www.Biz BuySell.com
Office - 269-408-0000 cell - 499 –1656 0r 74
Ask for Carl or Kathleen
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