6 14-0954 Subject: Developer Selection and ENA for the Henry J. Kaiser Convention Center
From: Economic And Workforce Development
Recommendation: Adopt A Resolution Authorizing An Exclusive Negotiating Agreement With Orton Development, Inc. For The Rehabilitation, Adaptive Reuse, And Operation Of The Henry J. Kaiser Convention Center, Also Known As The Oakland Municipal Auditorium
As a member of the Symphony Board of Directors, Oakland Symphony Chorus and Oakland native, I support the vision of the rehabilitation and restoration of the Kaiser Center and the Simmons Theatre. Relocating our operations into the Simmons complex will provide a reliable, permanent home for the Chorus, enhancing recruitment and retention of the next generation of singers and a dependable venue for our concerts, workshops and educational programs allowing constancy for our patrons.
As an Oakland resident (District 4), interested in the future of jobs and development in Oakland, I support CDP's hotel project proposal. In addition to being thoughtful about jobs and job training, the proposal contemplates a much needed hotel. Business travelers are currently limited to the Marriott downtown, and are in dire need of another option. Lake Merritt as an entry point for travelers would be good for our city.
As Jack London Square resident, I walk by the Kaiser Center a lot. This building was an important anchor for the community. New office space? There are unused commercial spaces now. A developer had commercial zoning in JLS altered by the planning commission to include condos- commercial sector did not pencil out! A hotel, performance center using arts, education, workforce and apprenticeship - something innovative. The Creative Development Partners aligned the idea with experts in each field.
I support the staff recommendation. A new hi-rise hotel squeezed between the HJ Kaiser Center and the Museum would not be appropriate. The hotel and workforce training model is interesting, but unless it can be contained within the existing arena and built without public tax increment subsidy, it would be better at a different location.
As a former redevelopment employee in Community & Economic Development, film festival organizer and long-time Oakland resident, I am in full support of Creative Development Partners (CDP) as a developer for this under-utilized area. They understand the uniqueness of Oakland, are capable professionals in their field, have surpassed the requirements, and have a better understanding of the diversity of Oakland and its residents.
As a member of the Symphony Board of Directors, Oakland Symphony Chorus and Oakland native, I support the vision of the rehabilitation and restoration of the Kaiser Center and the Simmons Theatre. Relocating our operations into the Simmons complex will provide a reliable, permanent home for the Chorus, enhancing recruitment and retention of the next generation of singers and a dependable venue for our concerts, workshops and educational programs allowing constancy for our patrons.
As an Oakland resident (District 4), interested in the future of jobs and development in Oakland, I support CDP's hotel project proposal. In addition to being thoughtful about jobs and job training, the proposal contemplates a much needed hotel. Business travelers are currently limited to the Marriott downtown, and are in dire need of another option. Lake Merritt as an entry point for travelers would be good for our city.
As Jack London Square resident, I walk by the Kaiser Center a lot. This building was an important anchor for the community. New office space? There are unused commercial spaces now. A developer had commercial zoning in JLS altered by the planning commission to include condos- commercial sector did not pencil out! A hotel, performance center using arts, education, workforce and apprenticeship - something innovative. The Creative Development Partners aligned the idea with experts in each field.
I support the staff recommendation. A new hi-rise hotel squeezed between the HJ Kaiser Center and the Museum would not be appropriate. The hotel and workforce training model is interesting, but unless it can be contained within the existing arena and built without public tax increment subsidy, it would be better at a different location.
As a former redevelopment employee in Community & Economic Development, film festival organizer and long-time Oakland resident, I am in full support of Creative Development Partners (CDP) as a developer for this under-utilized area. They understand the uniqueness of Oakland, are capable professionals in their field, have surpassed the requirements, and have a better understanding of the diversity of Oakland and its residents.