Council approves lease with Greater Yuma Port Authority for office at 788 E. B St.

City Attorney Kaye McQuill presented an intergovernmental lease agreement with the Greater Yuma Port Authority (GYPA) for the remodeled building at 788 East B Street. McQuill said GYPA needed office space near the port and offered funds to help remodel the building; GYPA could pay five years of rent up front to reimburse the remodel or proceed month‑to‑month. The lease mirrors treatment used for the city’s incubator spaces and allows GYPA to furnish the office with donated furniture; donated furniture would remain with GYPA if it left.

Staff and GYPA representatives clarified utilities and maintenance responsibilities: rent includes water, sewer and trash; the port authority will pay for electricity and internet; the city will handle maintenance and janitorial services. The lease allows tenant improvements up to $5,000 with prior approval from the city. City attorney and GYPA representatives confirmed the written lease reflected these arrangements.

Council discussed potential conflicts of interest because a council member has a nonprofit that would occupy an office in the building. City attorney advised that the council member’s nonprofit interest is listed on the conflict‑of‑interest disclosure and that the lease does not directly affect the council member’s financial interest beyond the use of space. A motion to approve Order No. 2025‑06 carried by voice vote with Mayor Nieves Radeau recorded as voting nay and the motion otherwise passing.

Minutes note that comments made by three council members immediately after a recess were not part of the recording. Staff said the lease will proceed as written.