Authorize the City Manager to execute a lease with Columbus Botanical Gardens, \n \n Inc. for property located at 3508 Oberlin Drive for a period of 10 years with \n \n an option to renew for an additional 10 year period..
Approval
Pending
Background
In Resolution 243-14, Council authorized the acceptance of approximately 2.9
acres of property located at 3508 Oberlin Drive from the State of Georgia. The
property is located adjacent to Columbus Botanical Gardens property. The
parcel was previously utilized by Columbus Technical College in the
horticultural program. Columbus Technical College discontinued the
horticultural program and no longer utilizes the property. The property was
declared surplus by the State of Georgia and conveyed to the City by Quit Claim
earlier this year.
Analysis
The Columbus Botanical Gardens, Inc. has expressed an interest in the Oberlin
Drive property to expand the services provided by the organization. The
Botanical Gardens is currently in the process of developing a 10 year Master
Plan. The proposed uses of the property will include walking trails, floral
gardens, gazebos, benches for visitors and other low intensity activities
consistent with a public garden. The terms of the lease will include the
following elements.
Initial term of 10 years with an option to renew for an additional 10 years for
$1.00 per year beginning January 1, 2015.
Organization will be required to maintain general liability insurance coverage
of $1 million.
Agree to hold the City harmless for any activity on the property.
Prohibited from constructed permanent structures on the property.
Any improvements to the property will require prior approval by the City
Manager.
The Botanical Gardens will be responsible for mitigating any adverse impacts to
adjacent properties.
Termination of the lease by either party with 90 days written notice.
Financial Considerations
None
Projected Annual Fiscal Impact Statement
None
Legal Considerations
Council must approve all lease agreements.
Recommendations/ Actions
Authorize the City Manager to execute a lease with Columbus Botanical Gardens
for property located at 3508 Oberlin Drive for a period of 10 years with an