Irvine Council directs staff to pursue lease talks, valuation strategy for University Park Library

The Irvine City Council voted unanimously May 12 to ask city staff to begin negotiations with the County of Orange over a long‑term lease for University Park Library and to return with recommended steps for establishing a property valuation should negotiations reach that point.

The motion, brought by Council Member Martinez Franco and seconded on the dais, asks staff to open dialogue with the county about a lease extension, to work with county staff to agree on the assumptions and parameters that would underpin any property valuation, and then to come back to council for authorization to pursue that valuation and any necessary real‑estate expertise. Council directed staff to report back with options and recommended next steps; the council set a target report‑back date of July 14.

Director of Community and Library Services Chris Lama told the council the County of Orange had indicated the University Park parcel was “not for sale at this time,” but had expressed openness to exploring a lease extension. City Librarian Julie Zeoli and other staff said they would continue monitoring conditions and maintain uninterrupted library service.

Public speakers urged the council to act to protect the branch. Adam Tayabas, district director for Supervisor Katrina Foley, told council the supervisor supports a long‑term lease and offered to assist if the city formally requests negotiations. Several residents and library advocates said an appraisal and legal review were needed to clarify the city’s negotiating position; others warned against expending significant funds while the county maintained the property was not for sale.

Council members debated timing and cost. Some members, including Vice Mayor Mai and Council Member Carroll, questioned the value of a stand‑alone appraisal while the county maintained the site was off the market; Martinez Franco said the motion only asked staff to prepare options and report back, not to spend funds immediately. City Manager Sean Crumby said staff would locate an appraisal performed for earlier negotiations and include that work in the materials returned to council.

The approved direction aims to preserve continuity of library services while giving the council information and tools — from broker opinions to potential appraisals and negotiation assistance — should the county be willing to engage in deeper talks. The council did not authorize purchase or an appraisal at this meeting; staff must return with scope, cost estimates and options prior to any procurement or appraisal work.