Potential buyer of South Bend tower seeks help

SOUTH BEND, Ind. — A potential buyer for South Bend’s tallest building is asking the city for $5.7 million to help pay for renovations, with city officials facing a quick deadline for making a decision.

The 25-story Chase Tower has been in receivership since February and several of its 22 tenants have said they’re considering leaving because it’s in disrepair.

The South Bend Tribune reports an attorney for the potential buyer told a City Council committee Monday that the building could go up for auction after Dec. 19.

Mayor Stephen Luecke suggested the council consider approving the request. He says the money could come from city reserves and the general fund.

The potential buyer plans to spend more than $19 million to acquire the tower and pay for improvements.