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Council rejects all proposals for Charles J.D. Kester House RFP, will revisit later
Summary
After discussing the single remaining submission and concerns about scope, financing and whether to include green space, the council voted to reject all proposals to the RFP for the Charles J.D. Kester House and hold the matter for future reconsideration and possible re‑issuance in spring.
Council debated the only remaining submission to the RFP for the Charles J.D. Kester House, which was written to solicit a restaurant operator for the property. Members raised concerns about the applicant’s business plan, the city’s ability to divest the property within grant constraints, ongoing operating costs (taxes, utilities, insurance) and whether the adjacent green space should be included in a future RFP.
Some councilors suggested awarding the property to a museum operator or restructuring the RFP to broaden interest; others expressed concern the current applicant lacked the financial depth to operate both the Kester House and other community facilities. After discussion, a motion was made and seconded to reject all proposals submitted under the RFP for the Charles J.D. Kester House. The motion passed by voice vote and staff were instructed to notify proponents; council left open the option to revisit the RFP at a later date, possibly in spring, and to consider reworking the scope or promotion.
