HomeMy WebLinkAbout12-026 Authorizing City Manager to Enter into Exchange Agreement with USPS Concerning Customs House Resolution 12-026
USPS/Customs House Exchange Agreement
RESOLUTION NO. 12-026
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PORT
TOWNSEND, WASHINGTON AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER
TO ENTER INTO AN EXCHANGE AGREEMENT WITH THE USPS
CONCERNING THE CUSTOMS HOUSE
RECITALS:
A. The United States Postal Service (USPS) currently owns and operates a postal facility at
the Customs House, 1322 Washington, Port Townsend. There are ADA accessibility
issues at the facility. The USPS desires to obtain a new distribution facility in Port
Townsend, but also to continue to operate a"retail" facility at the Customs House,
B. The City desires to explore the possibility of an exchange with the USPS. Under the
terns of an exchange, the USPS would transfer the Customs House to the City in return
for the City's transfer of property and a newly-constructed replacement postal facility at
the business park (currently owned by First Western) to the USPS (to serve as a
distribution center). As part of the transaction, the USPS would lease back a portion of
the Customs House for a retail postal facility, and the Customs House would be
rehabilitated by the City to include ADA accessibility. A proposed exchange provides for
a two-year window for due diligence (including review of costs for the replacement
facility).
C. Discussions concerning the exchange started in 2010. In 2011, the City, with USPS
approval, proposed that the Public Development Authority(PDA) take over the project.
The City Council then, at the request of the PDA, determined to re-orient the PDA's
efforts to Fort Worden.
D. The City Manager has worked with several entities and agencies concerning the proposed
project. Washington Trust has indicated its interest in partnering with the City on the
Customs House project. This could result in the City serving as the agent that secures the
property, and then transfers its interest to the Trust.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Port
Townsend as follows:
The City Manager is authorized to enter into a property exchange and development agreement
with the USPS concerning the Customs House.
Following due diligence, the matter would come back to City Council for review and decision on
approval of the exchange.
Resolution 12-026
LISPS/Customs House Exchange Agreement
ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Port Townsend at a regular meeting
thereof, held this 18th day of June 2012.
David I ing, Mayor
Attest: Approved as to form:
Pamela Kolacy, MMC "� John P. Watts
City Clerk City Attorney