Local Transportation Commission OKs resolution of intention to purchase 2.3 acres for EV parking lot

At the Local Transportation Commission meeting held within the board session, Administrative Analyst Robert (Robbie) Stark briefed the commission on an option agreement and a completed Phase I environmental site assessment for a roughly 2.3‑acre parcel identified as Assessor’s Parcel Number 013‑011‑003. Stark said the Phase I assessment “has come back with positive results,” indicating no known environmental liabilities that would preclude near‑term development for a fleet EV parking facility.

Stark explained the resolution of intention is a required step under Government Code section 25381 to publicly notice the county’s intent to acquire property prior to executing an option agreement; the hearing on the option is scheduled for May 12. Supervisor Smoakam moved to adopt the resolution of intention to purchase and Supervisor Poe seconded; the commission voted unanimously to approve the resolution and to post required public notice in the local newspaper.

Supervisors emphasized public access and grant funding benefits: one supervisor noted the county received an LTC grant approaching $2.7 million for the parking lot and that moving county fleet vehicles off the Health & Human Services lot would improve client parking. Staff characterized the resolution as non‑committal (an intent to proceed), with a subsequent noticed hearing required before final execution of purchase documents.