Subject:
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Consideration of Eastham House Proposal
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Presented By: Brian Shull, Director of Economic Development
Recommendation and Review
On September 12, 2014, the City issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) soliciting proposals for the purchase or lease of the City-owned Eastham House located at 317 S. Main Street. As of the October 22, 2014 RFP closing date, only one proposal was received by the City. Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance submitted a proposal to explore both no-cost lease and purchase options that would allow HDR to relocate its offices from the Hardesty-Higgins House to the second floor of the Eastham House. In addition, HDR proposed to partner with the Harrisonburg-Rockingham Historical Society to use the first floor as a satellite museum location.
Both HDR and the H-R Historical Society understand that the City's Information Technology Department shall maintain possession of the building until their anticipated move into the new Municipal Building in late summer 2015. In an effort to allow all partners an opportunity to explore options and to create the best possible deal structure for all parties, HDR has requested a six month feasibility period for the purposes of firming up the scope, budget and timeline for the renovations, exploring financing alternatives, and solidifying partnership commitments.
The City's Building Official has reviewed the proposal and has discussed proposed structural changes and building use code questions with HDR representatives. More detailed analysis will be required once building plans are submitted to the City for formal review. City staff recommends proceeding with the six month feasibility period with HDR to allow for further analysis to take place.