FOR THE COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 19, 2024
COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
TO: City Council
FROM: Interim City Manager Alex Posada
BY: Interim Recreation and Parks Director Angela Oslund
SUBJECT: Adoption of a Resolution Approving a Purchase and Sales Agreement for Real Property intended for the Santa Maria Sports Park
Description:
The City Council will consider authorizing the purchase of the real property known as Lot 6 of Tract 6022 (Blosser Ranch subdivision) , APN 117-240-055, consisting of approximately twenty-one and 13/100s (21.13) gross acres of undeveloped land located in Santa Maria, Santa Barbara County, California
Environmental Notice: The activity is not a “Project” as defined under Section 15378 of the California Environmental Quality Act State Guidelines; therefore, pursuant to State Guidelines Section 15060(c)(3) no environmental review is required
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt a Resolution approving the purchase and sale agreement for Lot 6 of Tract 6022, APN 117-240-055.
BACKGROUND:
Blosser Fee Owner, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, has expressed a willingness to sell the real property known as Lot 6 of Tract 6022 (Blosser Ranch subdivision), APN-117-240-055 (“property”) to the City of Santa Maria. This property is part of the Blosser Ranch development, within the Blosser Southeast Specific Plan, consisting of single-family and multi-family housing, commercial uses, a school site, with land set aside for a future fire station and this property for the park, to be transferred from the developer/property owner to the City. The terms and conditions of the purchase are detailed in the Purchase Agreement, providing a comprehensive framework for the acquisition of the future Santa Maria Sports Park.
DISCUSSION:
A Multi-Sports Field Committee was convened in 2016 under the Recreation and Parks Commission to evaluate the need and public interest in developing a new Sports Park/Complex. This project is many years in the making, an d the purchase of this real property will enable the City to move forward with the next phase of the Sports Complex 2 project. The developer/property owner is conveying the property to the City in exchange for a credit on Quimby Act/Subdivision Fees for all phases of the Blosser Ranch project.
The acquisition of Lot 6 of Tract 6022 (APN-117-240-055) is strategically significant for the City of Santa Maria, as it will serve as a cornerstone for the City of Santa Maria’s new Sports Park, also known as the Sports Complex. This 21.13 acre gross property is located at the intersections of Stowell Road and Battles Road crossing South Depot Street, running parallel to the Santa Maria Valley Railroad right of way.
The property's expansive acreage offers ample spac e for sports facilities, recreational amenities, and community-oriented programming, aligning perfectly with the City's vision for the development of the Sports Park.
The City has received a copy of the pesticide remediation and site pre-closure letter from the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department regarding environmental studies completed at this property in preparation for development. The City has negotiated an extended purchase and sale closure date in order to complete any remaining due diligence investigation needed to finalize the Purchase and Sale Agreement.
Alternative(s)
The City Council may choose not to approve the purchase of the property for the Santa Maria Sports Park. However, this decision would impede the potential benefits associated with the development of a community -centric sports and recreational facility, impacting the city's ability to provide enhanced recreational opportunities.
Fiscal Considerations
The fiscal impact of the purchase is outlined in the Purchase Agreement. Buyer shall pay all closing costs, including transfer taxes, recording fees, and escrow fees. The Fee Credits provided to the Seller are accounted for within the Agreement. Any additional costs associated with the acquisition will be covered by the City as specified in the Agreement for the Santa Maria Sports Park.
Impact to the Community
The acquisition of Lot 6 of Tract 6022 for the Santa Maria Sports Park will have a positive impact on the community by providing a dedicated space for sports and recreational activities. The development of the Sports Park aligns with the City's commitment to enhancing community well -being and fostering a sense of community through shared recreational experiences.
The approval of this agenda i tem will mark a significant step towards realizing the City's goals for the development of the Santa Maria Sports Park.
Attachment A: Purchase and Sales Agreement- Blosser- Park Purchase and Sale Agreement