05/09/1990 Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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e e e Mr. Bowers indicated that a final lease agreement between Club Wholesale and the owner of the Sears Building has been prepared and is ready for signature. Mr. Boles asked whether the City could provide the council with an external review of Club Wholesale's proposed building renovation design. Mr. Bowers said that a design review process has been initiated and progress is being made toward an agreeable design; these design reviews can be made available to council upon request. In light of the proposed first floor usage, Mr. Miller asked for staff's opinion of the ease of leasing the building's basement and top floors. Mr. Bowers said that in discussions with the building owners, it is his understanding that the second floor would be marketable as office spaces. He is unaware of any plans for basement leasing. Mr. Bennett acknowledged the complexity of this issue. He noted that the Retail Task Force has identified the Sears Building as a critical component of the core of downtown. Although Club Wholesale might potentially be the type of strong tenant which is needed for this building, it would be premature for the council to make a decision on this issue until the Retail Task Force's Tenant Mix Plan recommendations have been considered. He suggested that this issue be tabled until June 1, at which time the work of the Rrtail Task Force is available for public review. Responding to a question, a representative of the owner of the Sears Building said that a specific termination date for the proposed agreement with Club Wholesale has not been established. He stressed, however, that without a firm council commitment, no guarantees can be given. Responding to a question from Mr. Boles, he said that the proposed nature of Club Wholesale's business at this location will be retail sales. Mr. Bennett moved, seconded by Mr. Boles, that the council's action on Sears Building redevelopment be carried to the May 30, 1990, City Council meeting. Mr. Holmer asked whether the Retail Task Force, in its Tenant Mix Plan, plans to designate a specific type of use for each piece of property downtown. Ms. Schue responded that the Retail Task Force is making specific recommendations for appropriate tenants on many blocks downtown. The motion passed unanimously, 7:0. (At 12:45 p.m., Councilor Green exited the meeting.) Mayor Miller adjourned the meeting of the Urban Renewal Agency and reconvened the meeting of the Eugene City Council. MINUTES--Eugene City Council May 9, 1990 Page 5