Committee asks staff to study converting Bikini Hospital site into workforce or affordable housing; site visit requested

The committee considered whether the city should explore converting the Bikini Hospital property to permanent workforce or affordable housing rather than following an approved demolition plan.

Housing staff said the current development agreement requires the developer to close and demolish the site under existing agreements, but staff said they can evaluate the structure’s condition and feasibility for renovation. Commissioners noted the high cost of new construction and suggested renovating existing buildings — which reportedly contain kitchens and sizable units — to provide housing for teachers or other municipal employees.

Committee members asked housing staff and the developer to inspect the property and return with an assessment of renovation feasibility and costs. The committee supported sending the idea to the full commission to authorize an exploratory study and possible negotiation with the current developer.

Takeaway: Staff will inspect the Bikini Hospital site and report back; the committee supported forwarding the idea of conversion to the full commission for further discussion and possible study funding.