Council approves sale agreements for small East Capitol parcels with developer deadlines

City staff presented two sale-and-development agreements for small parcels along East Capitol Avenue that were acquired as part of the city’s broader East Capitol redevelopment program. The properties are being sold to private developers under specific terms that require project completion within a set timeline, with city reversion if conditions are not met.

One parcel at 212 Jackson Street will be sold to Jackson Street QOZ LLC for a proposed two-unit residential structure; staff noted the developer initially proposed four units but has revised the plan to two units for the contract. The purchase price matched the city appraisal; the agreement gives the developer a three-year window to complete construction, after which the city may reclaim the lot if conditions are unmet.

A second parcel at 528 East Capitol Avenue was presented with a proposed sale to 526 Octoplex LLC; the agreement allows the developer flexibility to construct either a two-unit or three-unit residential building and sets a two-year completion schedule. Staff said the bid prices for the sites matched appraisals and that both agreements include performance timelines used on prior East Capitol sales.

Council discussion focused on site constraints, parking requirements, and whether additional zoning processes such as a PUD or minor variance would be needed for alternative designs. Staff said they will work with applicants on final designs and will bring final sales agreements back to council for execution following required review and compliance with the sale terms.