Glendale council approves 25-year management deal for Black Lot parking with Vi Resorts after heated public debate

Glendale City Council on June 24 approved entering a 25-year professional services agreement with Vi Resorts LLC to manage the city-owned surface parking lot commonly called the “Black Lot,” with an initial guaranteed payment of $500,000 in year one and an annual escalator tied to the consumer price index for the Phoenix region or 3%, whichever is lower. The contract begins Feb. 1, 2026, and includes options for the city to renew for two additional 10-year periods.

The vote followed a lengthy staff presentation and an extended public and council debate focused on projected revenue potential, contract terms and perceived process shortcomings. Levi Gibson, director of budget and finance, told the council the RFP drew four responses, an evaluation panel recommended Vi Resorts LLC as the most responsive proposer, and “These services will be provided at no cost to the city. Vi Resorts LLC has agreed to pay the city a fixed fee for the term of the contract ... with initial amount of $500,000 for year 1 of the agreement.”

Why it matters: Several council members and public speakers said the guaranteed payment understates the value of a 4,011-space surface…