Council approves 10‑year $1‑per‑year lease of downtown lot to Merritt House Realty; some council members voice concern

The Decatur City Council approved an ordinance leasing a downtown municipal lot to Merritt House Realty on a 10‑year term at the nominal rent of $1 per year, with the lessee responsible for resurfacing, striping and ongoing maintenance. City staff said Merritt House is expanding nearby and needs parking; the lease requires the company to upgrade and maintain the lot rather than the city performing those improvements. Staff described the lease as a 10‑year arrangement with maintenance obligations placed on the lessee. Resident Sharonda Ackland questioned the public benefit and criticized the rent and precedent, asking, “Are we seriously in the business of practically giving away public property?” She said the city had earlier paid $225,000 for demolition nearby to improve parking and asked whether leasing the lot for $1 undermines that prior expense. Council debate noted the lot’s proximity to a building used for real‑estate certification classes and the farmers market and that part of the lot is currently not under lease. One council member said she would not support the lease given the city’s past investments in the area. The motion to approve the lease carried on a roll call after discussion. Council Member Pepper moved and Council Member Pike seconded the motion. The lease will require Merritt House Realty to resurface, restripe and maintain the lot for the lease term. Council members asked staff to verify historical restrictions on permanent parking at the lot (staff earlier said the lot was reserved to prevent long‑term parking because of nearby loft apartments) and to confirm the portions subject to this lease.