SUBJECT
Discussion and possible action to approve a Resolution awarding up to $385,000.00 in TIRZ funding to Jasmine Engineering, Inc. for environmental remediation of the Sterling Building project, located at 1434 E. Commerce Street, to authorize Staff to negotiate the appropriate agreement, and to authorize the appropriate amendments to the Project and Finance Plans.
BACKGROUND:
The properties located at 1434 East Commerce Street and 323 Idaho, commonly known at the Sterling Building. Former uses of the Sterling Building include a saloon, grocer, restaurant, furniture manufacture, bakery and a package store.
On February 3, 2012, the Inner City TIRZ Board ("Board") issued a Request for Proposals and received 22 project submissions from which the City's proposal to acquire the Sterling Building, perform due diligence and facilitate the investment of approximately $900,000.00 in additional funds for the Sterling Building Redevelopment Project. The City of San Antonio and the Inner City TIRZ Board entered into an Agreement committing up to $150,000.00 in tax increment funds for the Project to promote local economic development, historic preservation, and to stimulate business and commercial activity, within the Inner City TIRZ.
On October 5, 2012, the Inner City TIRZ Board of Directors awarded the Center City Development Office up to $150,000.00 for acquisition and due diligence for the Sterling Building Redevelopment Project. The redevelopment project was one of two projects selected by the TIRZ Board of Directors for funding as part of the 2012 Inner City TIRZ Request for Proposals. Subsequently, on November 8, 2012 City Council authorized the negotiation and execution of the agreement through Ordinance 2012-11-08-0886. As such, in November, 2012, City staff initiated discussions with the County to negotiate a purchase price for the acquisition of 323 Idaho and 1434 E. Commerce St.
On May 31, 2013, the Center City Development Office issued a Request for Proposal to seek out and attract qualified investors/developers to acquire and rehabilitate the properties.
On October 6, 2017, The City Manager declared the two properties as surplus and authorized and directed to sell to Yasaman Azima Living Trust the properties currently addressed as 1434 East Commerce Street and 323 Idaho for $120,000.00.
Jasmine Engineering, Inc., the authorized agent for Yasaman Azima Living Trust, completed an Environmental Phase II study that determined that there are environmental concerns affecting the property that require remediation in order to develop the property.
On January 26, 2017, Jasmine Engineering, Inc. presented their completed application to the TIF Unit for consideration.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The total environmental remediation cost of the Sterling Building project is approximately $385,000.00 which includes costs for site work, remediation, a 30% contingency, and Developer related expenses. If approved, this action will authorize the payment of up to $385,000.00 from the Inner City TIRZ fund for the reimbursement of eligible expenses related to the Sterling Building project between the City of San Antonio, Jasmine Engineering, Inc. and the Inner City TIRZ Board of Directors.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff is recommending the TIRZ Board approve a Resolution awarding up to $385,000.00 in TIRZ funding to Jasmine Engineering, Inc. for environmental remediation of the Sterling Building project, located at 1434 E. Commerce Street, to authorize Staff to negotiate the appropriate agreement, and to authorize the appropriate amendments to the Project and Finance Plans.