DEPARTMENT: Department of Culture and Creative Development
DEPARTMENT HEAD: Felix N. Padron
COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED: 1
SUBJECT:
Execution of La Villita Lease Agreements
SUMMARY:
This ordinance authorizes execution of 9 lease agreements with tenants for space in La Villita, a historic arts village.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
La Villita is a unique historic and culturally significant facility on the banks of the San Antonio River in downtown San Antonio. In 1939, under the leadership of Mayor Maury Maverick, La Villita was restored. The initial restoration of six houses was dedicated in May 1941 and La Villita became a center for community events and home to artists and art galleries. La Villita continued to expand over the next 40 years, and in 1981, as part of a $2 million renovation project, City Council approved an ordinance emphasizing that all leased spaces within La Villita be utilized for promoting, creating, and/or the retail sales of arts, crafts, and related skills.
In 2006 the CVB's Destination SA Study cited concerns with La Villita hours of operation, authenticity and mix of merchandise, and recommended completing a Retail Management Study. On September 13, 2007 City Council approved a contract with Urban Marketing Collaborative (UMC) to conduct a Retail Management Study. This study, released in October 2008, cited similar concerns as the Destination SA Study.
In October 2012, the Department for Culture and Creative Development (DCCD) assumed management of La Villita with the intent of increasing cultural tourism opportunities, community utilization, and the artistic and historic aspects of the facilities. On March 18, 2013 DCCD submitted recommendations to the High Profile Contract Council Committee (HPCCC) for the La Villita RFP. DCCD recommendations were to solicit a diverse, innovative, and unique retail mix centered on Art and Craft and delineate twenty-five locations for specialized businesses in the ...
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