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Board debates single bid from Luciano’s and competing proposal from 961 to expand Grand Hall access
Summary
Staff reported only Luciano’s responded to the Grand Hall RFP with a 24-month, $11,500/month bid; Prince Labelle/961 urged the WRA to restructure access so other caterers and community groups can use a 30-foot 'garden' area when Luciano’s is not using the hall. Board deferred action and agreed to an on-site visit before the August meeting.
The WRA spent the largest portion of its July 23 meeting discussing the RFP for the restaurant lease and operation of the Grand Hall at Union Station after staff said only one proposal was received.
Staff reported Luciano’s submitted a 24-month proposal for $11,500 per month, a little over the RFP’s stated $11,000-per-month minimum, and projected about 53 Grand Hall events per year. “Their bid was $11,500 per month,” staff said. Board members asked why only one proposal was received; staff said the rent level and the unique operational responsibilities likely deterred some potential bidders.
Representatives for Prince Labelle and 961 (Mark Bornstein and Obi Abdulki) asked the authority to consider a more flexible operating model for the Grand Hall that would increase community access and activation. Mark described a proposal to allow 961 and other caterers access to the first 30 feet of the hall for family-friendly events, with a fee structure that compensates Luciano’s when third parties use the larger hall. “Let's take a step back and think about how can we use the hall more often,” Mark told the board, adding 961 had invested in the space and could increase the number of community events.
Board members pressed staff on legal and licensing constraints. Staff and Mark explained that Luciano’s currently holds a Section 12 on-premises liquor license that covers the Grand Hall; having multiple licensees within one licensed premise is complicated under state rules. Mark and staff discussed caterer (12C) licenses and one-day licenses as alternatives; Mark estimated a 12C annual fee around $1,500.
After extended discussion, the board agreed it would be prudent to meet on-site to inspect the proposed 30-foot area and to talk with Luciano’s before making a decision. Chair Pitcher said staff should arrange a site visit and the matter will be revisited at the August meeting.
