Space Age owner tells Ravalli County commissioners potential buyers could stay under county lease

Representatives for Space Age told the Ravalli County Board of County Commissioners on July 1 that potential buyers of the company’s building have asked whether they could remain in place under the existing county/park-board lease if they purchase the property.

Ace, representing Space Age, said the company has engaged a commercial broker and received offers. The broker, the representative said, asked whether a new owner could have the county’s lease continued under a new name. The representative said Space Age has about three to four years remaining on its lease but that any new purchaser would be a different entity and would need to “start over” under county processes.

Commissioners discussed the lease language on subleasing and assignment, noting a reciprocal 180-day (six-month) clause in the event of sale or termination that would give either party time to vacate. Commissioners said they had no objection to a prospective buyer remaining at the site if the prospective buyer would sign a substantially similar lease and the county had a chance to vet the new entity.

The meeting record clarified that fixtures and installed electrical panels would remain with the premises while movable machinery and vacuum systems would likely be removed by the seller. No formal action, motion or vote was taken at the July 1 meeting; commissioners said staff and the park board would be kept informed if and when an offer is made.