BusHsgDev Highlights 2009 0709 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Business Development Analyst Kay informed the Committee that until construction of the new downtown parking garage is completed, the former Albertsons site and a portion of the site known as Town Hall Square will be used to provide temporary replacement parking for downtown businesses. These locations have been identified as two key opportunity sites for implementation of the City's Transit Oriented Development (TOD) Strategy. Although development of the sites cannot commence until the parking garage is completed, staff recommends initiating the first steps of the development process at this time. Beginning the planning now will facilitate timely implementation of the TOD Strategy and will minimize the risk of having excess surface parking and underused sites downtown once the garage opens. The Agency can initiate planning for these crucial locations at this time by identifying a preferred developer and entering into an Exclusive Negotiating Rights Agreement for the purpose of reaching a Disposition and Development Agreement. Staff has identified the Innisfree Companies as an ideal partner for these sites for the following reasons: L Innisfree was rated #2 in the 2005 RFQ process for development of Town Hall Square. 2. Innisfree was also second (of six teams) in the City's RFQ process for a master developer for the Shoreline-Marina area. 3. With successful completion of mixed-use projects in Tiburon and Redwood City, Innisfree has developed a strong track record for comparable projects. 4. Innisfree president David Irmer has demonstrated the ability to successfully engage the community. 5. The selection of one developer for both 1550 East 14th Street and Town Hall Square will help to ensure implementation of a cohesive vision for downtown San Leandro. Coordinated planning between the two sites will eliminate the risk of competing uses at both locations. Recommendation: Adoption of an 18 month Exclusive Negotiating Rights Agreement with the Innisfree Companies for the development of 1550 East 14th Street and Town Hall Square. 3. Redevelopment Agency Support for San Leandro Chamber of Commerce Proposed Business Assistance Services for Fiscal Year 2009-10 Business Development Manager Battenberg explained that the relationship between the City and the Chamber of Commerce (Chamber) is very important for both organizations. As part of this relationship the City and/or Redevelopment Agency (Agency) has supported the San Leandro Chamber of Commerce in their business assistance efforts as far back as records are available, and is recommending providing the Chamber up to $46,600 in Agency support in FY 2009-10. This financial support, which is outlined in detail in the attached memorandum, will allow the Chamber to provide a number of important programs such as; the Mayoral Visitation Program, San Leandro Economic Forums, Industrial Programs, Farmers' Market