Council committee clears leasing and management agreement steps for 33 West Main Street

The Service Committee on Sept. 2 approved items to permit leasing of the public building at 33 West Main Street and to authorize the director of public service to negotiate a management agreement to operate the property. Committee members voted 5-0 to allow the city to proceed with new lease arrangements and to pursue a management agreement with a real estate company; both votes were by voice and will be subject to appropriation where required. The committee discussion noted that the city purchased the building with tenants in place and that staff and the law director’s office are preparing lease documents. A staff presenter said the city has a framework agreement with a real estate company to handle leasing and requested permission to enter into the proposed form of agreement, subject to appropriation. During public comment, resident Michelle Roland Smith asked what future plans might be for the location; her comment was recorded for the planning and leasing process. No final lease or management contract was executed at the meeting; the actions direct staff to proceed with lease drafting and negotiation and to return any required agreements for council approval.