AgdaPkt 2019-05-20 Joint SA PFA - Laserfiche WebLink

Browse Search

6.G. - Page 1 of 9 /<�ik Redwood CitylCallifornia Faunded 1867 A,&/ DATE: May 20, 2019 SUBJECT STAFF REPORT To the Honorable Mayor and City Council From the City Manager One Year License to Use National Guard Armory Building for Community Recreation Purposes RECOMMENDATION By motion, approve and authorize the City Manager to execute a one-year License with the California Military Department to use the National Guard Armory (located in Red Morton Park) for the purposes of community recreation programs. STRATEGIC INITIATIVE Community for All Ages BACKGROUND The National Guard Armory, located within Red Morton Park off of Valota Road, was originally built in 1950 after the City sold the land to the State of California for this purpose for $1 (Resolution 629, November 8, 1948). The 16,500 square foot building is located on 1.7 acres, and consists of an open drill floor, restrooms, office space, and a kitchen. In 1976, the City sought to purchase the land from the State, however, State officials expressed interest in retaining ownership of the building and the land. The Armory was used as a recruiting, drill, and deployment center for military personnel. It was particularly active during the Gulf War and the war in Afghanistan. Over time, the number of service personnel have declined and only one active member was on duty in 2015. State officials then began exploring the opportunity to consolidate services at other armories located in the Bay Area. City staff contacted the State's Military Department to see if there was an opportunity for the City to purchase the land. Although a purchase was rejected by the State, staff explored the option of leasing the building for recreation purposes. City staff presented this option to the City Council and received direction to negotiate a lease agreement. The City entered into a three year lease with the State which ended July 31, 2018. During this term, improvements to the site were made in lieu of monetary payments at a value equal to the lease rate. City staff continued to express the City's interest regarding purchase of the property. During one site visit State representatives mentioned that a sale could be a possibility as the California Military Department would be eliminating a number of sites around the state that were in non -ideal locations. City of Redwood City 1017 Middlefield Road, Redwood City, CA. 94063 Tel: 650-780-7000 www.redwoodcity.ore 288