Submitted by: Laura Reams
Submitting Department: Administration
Agenda Section: Discussion
Item Title:
title
Acquisition of Property from Werrlein WSSC, LLC: Lower Lot, Suffrage Point
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Suggested Action:
recommendation
Council Discussion
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Summary Background:
In 2024, Werrlein Properties submitted a letter requesting the City to consider acquiring the lower lot property of the Suffrage Point development for a purchase price of $10,750,000.00. Currently this land is slated for development and is located in the Traditional Residential Neighborhood (TRN) Character Area of the Gateway Arts District Sector Plan and SMA. The lot was previously zone O-S (Open Space). It was rezoned R-55 through the approval of CSP-18002.
Staff have conducted a preliminary assessment of the site, including zoning, maintenance, environmental constraints, and alignment with the Driskell Park Master Plan and City strategic priorities. Relevant city departments including planning, public works, and finance have been consulted for input on suitability and constraints. Staff held preliminary conversations with Werrlein to confirm their interest in selling, negotiate price, and outline the high-level acquisition terms. The anticipated purchase price is up to $7.5M.
Acquiring this property is aligned with the City’s strategic goals to protect and preserve green, open space. This acquisition will also preserve land within a critical floodplain, offering long-term environmental and flood protection benefits. Additionally, the acquisition of this property represents the only opportunity to expand Driskell Park to meet growing community needs for recreational, green, space.
The agreement of sale includes two parcels.
- Outparcel 1 (Lower Lot): 4.66 acres
- Parcel A2 (The tip): 11,061 sf
An additional parcel, Parcel A1 is also under consideration for inclusion in the sales agreement. Parcel A1 is 17,671 sf. This area includes a pavilion, patio, and gas grills. Werrlein Properties, on behalf of the Suffrage Point HOA, is requesting the City consider conveyance of this area. City staff have a meeting scheduled with the HOA and property owners on May 20 to discuss this item.
The proposed terms of sale are detailed in the presentation. The proposed terms may be open to further negotiation. Final acceptance of these terms is contingent upon approval by the City Council and review by the City Attorney for legal sufficiency.
Next Steps:
Council discussion. Approval of the Agreement of Sale is tentatively scheduled for action on June 2, 2025 at the 12 PM meeting. The BANs ordinance is tentatively scheduled for a First Reading on June 2 at 12 PM, with Adoption on July 21, 2025.
Fiscal Impact:
The property acquisition will not exceed $7.5M. Additional funding to support site stabilization and stormwater management will not exceed $1M. The City has been awarded $3.5M from the State to support the acquisition of the property.
City Administrator Comments:
For Council consideration and discussion.
Community Engagement:
A community meeting with Suffrage Point HOA is scheduled for May 20 to discuss Parcel A1. The community will be given opportunities to provide input and feedback on the future plans for the property.
Strategic Goals:
Goal 3 - Promote a Safe and Vibrant Community
Legal Review Required?
Pending