Manager reports Law Department will send final LDA for Smith Baker RFP; council asks for continued security of property

The council received an informational update on the Smith Baker property procurement process and the draft Land Disposition Agreement (LDA) prepared by the city solicitor. The manager said the draft LDA would be finalized by the law department and sent to the successful bidder’s attorney during the week of Aug. 11, allowing the bidder to conduct due diligence and begin negotiated settlement steps; an executed purchase and sale was targeted within roughly 90 days. Councilors asked about security and site control while the property awaits closing; the manager and staff said city personnel have been monitoring the building and would continue periodic checks. Assistant staff said they would pull the RFP or pause the process if the council directed further neighborhood engagement, and one councilor asked that neighborhood subcommittee review precede any award if neighbors are concerned. No sale was executed at the meeting; the manager said the law department is finalizing the LDA and the council will receive documents and opportunities for review if negotiation proceeds to a council‑level action point.