pages: CityCouncil/2016-02-02.pdf, 12
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CityCouncil | 2016-02-02 | 12 | Stated that the building is his livelihood; relocating is easy for a big business but is hard for a small business; he is concerned with Google coming into the area; big companies come in and take over; invited the community and Councilmembers to come out and see his space and work; stated low rent from Mr. Dreyfuss keeps him in the area; urged Council to extend their time in Building 29: Sean Hibma-Cronan, 1701 Monarch. Requested City Council shorten the lease of the tenants in Building 29 and for the City to assist in finding them a new home; stated tenants should receive first choice in any available space at Alameda Point; the tenants should not be displaced or moved from Alameda Point; inquired whether Council has an idea to solidify the De-Pave Park plans; urged Council to do something to show support for De-Pave Park: Irene Dieter, Sierra Club. Stated there is an approved plan but there are also existing tenants; he supports the tenants staying at Alameda Point; the plan approved in 2014 for the waterfront does not include Building 29; the lease does not guarantee the tenants will remain there because a clause in the lease states the tenant or landlord can retract the lease; the approved plan states that the building can be torn down once funding is available for the park; urged tenants to start looking for another building now: Richard Bangert, Alameda. Vice Mayor Matarrese stated that he would like the businesses to stay at Alameda Point and also would like the park; the plan that was approved by the City does not include Building 29; he would like the Council to consider the 5 year lease to accomplish both the goals; the lease would generate $250,000 over the 5 years; the cost to demolish Building 29 is approximately $300,000; he feels 2 years is an unrealistic time frame and supports the 5 year lease; the 5 year lease would give the City enough time to accomplish both goals; inquired whether staff can work on the goals of relocating the tenants and removing Building 29 to expand the wetlands and whether the lease revenues from the building could be set aside for the demolition of the building. The Assistant Community Development Director responded relocating existing tenants is always a priority; stated the best economic strategy is to retain businesses; the City is currently working with a developer who creates these types of spaces; there is a shortage of stock because of the redevelopment at Alameda Point; the tenants require spaces because of the type of work they do; in response to Vice Mayor Matarrese's inquiry, stated the City is continuing to prioritize finding a space for these tenants; the City is trying to build more creative spaces at Alameda Point possibly within the next 5 years. In response to the question regarding taking the proceeds from the 5 year lease to demolish Building 29, she believes the funds are already spoken for; there are some significant priorities in the area of parks which staff has already been directed to ensure are happening; De-Pave park is added to that list; there is only so much the City can do with the limited resources and time. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 11 February 2, 2016 | CityCouncil/2016-02-02.pdf |