During the City Council meeting on June 27, 2023, a significant discussion emerged regarding the management and operation of the El Garza building and Santa Fe Park in Needles. Council members raised concerns about the current informal agreements governing the El Garza's operations, questioning the legality and effectiveness of trading services for cleaning in lieu of a formal contract. One council member emphasized the need for a structured management approach, stating, "If we're gonna have somebody run it, let's get a contract."

The conversation also clarified that Santa Fe Park is a standalone entity, separate from the El Garza, countering previous misconceptions that it served merely as the building's front lawn. This distinction is crucial as the council considers future public accommodations for the park, especially in light of recent expenditures on other parks in the area. The council member urged their peers to advocate for improvements at Santa Fe Park, highlighting that $600,000 had already been allocated to enhance other parks.

In a related update, Wayne Colburn from the chamber of commerce reported positive developments in the management of the event center and tours at El Garza. He noted a collaborative effort with the Friends of Al Garces to ensure smooth operations and compliance with their contractual obligations. Colburn expressed satisfaction with the ongoing partnership, stating, "I've never had an issue with the Friends of Al Garces managing the tours."

As the council navigates these discussions, the focus remains on establishing clear management protocols and enhancing community spaces, with the potential for significant improvements at Santa Fe Park on the horizon.