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Council splits on Ocean Beach market study; motion to table sent to Dec. 2
Summary
Council debated a $31,500 market-demand study proposed for Ocean Beach Park (Pinnacle Advisory Group). Proponents said a professional study is necessary to attract private investment; opponents raised process and conflict-of-interest concerns. The council voted to table the matter to Dec. 2 for additional committee review.
The council spent more than an hour debating a proposed market-demand study for Ocean Beach Park to be conducted by Pinnacle Advisory Group at a cost of $28,000 plus $3,500 in expenses. Director Reyes framed the work as part of a three-prong approach — operator procurement, current-state capital assessment and a market/feasibility study — aimed at moving Ocean Beach from a seasonal amenity to a more sustainable, year‑round economic asset.
Supporters argued the study is a modest investment that would produce credible market analysis to justify private and public investment, and to guide long-term planning. "We really have to bring in somebody to give us a better understanding of what the possibilities are," Director Reyes said, noting prior successful use of similar studies for the community center.
Opponents cautioned about process and vendor selection. Councilor Hart and others said the working group assembled to review Ocean Beach should be consulted first and that Pinnacle — a hotel management/ advisory firm — could have an incentive to recommend a hotel. "I would be wary of asking someone who has such a strong conflict to produce the plan," Hart said. Several councilors requested that the working group or relevant committee examine multiple options and bring findings to the full council.
After discussion the council voted to table the study and a linked transfer of $31,500 (resolution 111725-01) to the Dec. 2 meeting so the Ocean Beach committee could meet, review the proposal and provide formal feedback.
