Title
Approval of a Resolution Authorizing the Purchase of Real Estate Owned by the Port of Olympia for the Expansion of the Hands On Children’s Museum
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Move to approve a resolution authorizing the City Manager or designee to execute all documents necessary to acquire two lots located in the East Bay Redevelopment Short Plat, City of Olympia Master File No. 07-0154, comprising Parcel 6 consisting of approximately 0.92 acres and Parcel 7 consisting of approximately 0.65 acres, for the expansion of the Hands On Children’s Museum (HOCM).
Report
Issue:
Whether to approve a Resolution authorizing the City Manager or designee to execute all documents necessary to acquire two lots located in the East Bay Redevelopment Short Plat, City of Olympia Master File No. 07-0154, comprising Parcel 6 consisting of approximately 0.92 acres and Parcel 7 consisting of approximately 0.65 acres, for the expansion of the HOCM.
Staff Contact:
Debbie Sullivan, Assistant City Manager, 360.753.8499
Mark Barber, City Attorney, 360.753.8338
Presenter(s):
None - Consent Calendar Item.
Background and Analysis:
The Port of Olympia is the owner of two parcels adjacent to the Hands On Children’s Museum in the East Bay Redevelopment Short Plat, City of Olympia Master File No. 07-0154, comprising Parcel 6 consisting of approximately 0.92 acres and Parcel 7, consisting of approximately 0.65 acres. The City of Olympia wishes to purchase Parcels 6 & 7 for the expansion of the HOCM. (See legal description and location diagrams attached to the proposed Purchase and Sale Agreement as EXHIBIT A, which document is attached hereto.)
Following appraisal, Staff negotiated a purchase price with the Port of Olympia for Parcels 6 & 7 for $2,100,000.00, and the parties, as Buyer and Seller, have prepared the Purchase and Sale Agreement attached to this staff report. Closing of the transaction, if approved by Council, must occur on or before November 7, 2025. Escrow and Closing will be performed by Thurston County Title Company.
The HOCM opened in 2012. The original Public Facilities District (PFD) was formed in 2003. The City would like to purchase this property for HOCM’s expansion planning and project. HOCM is a destination museum for national and international visitors. More than 315,000 visitors go to HOCM annually. The purpose of the HOCM expansion project is to alleviate overcrowding, provide sufficient restrooms, more space for staff, materials, and equipment, and for program needs and new exhibits. The current HOCM has less square footage than any children’s museum serving 300,000 or more people annually. The proposed expansion will double exhibit square footage from 12,000 to 24,000 square feet.
Climate Analysis:
It is not anticipated the HOCM expansion will have a significant negative impact on greenhouse gas emissions. HOCM is a national green museum, returning distressed, contaminated land to productive use for public benefit, while utilizing green technology through solar power and other green energy saving measures.
Equity Analysis:
The HOCM expansion provides an opportunity to enhance childhood early learning opportunities in the arts and sciences for all, and to contribute and enhance the quality of life for all area residents, while also contributing to economic vitality through tourism. The HOCM also offers free and reduced programs for low income families.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
The parcels to be purchased are located in the East Bay Redevelopment Short Plan and are adjacent to the HOCM. The HOCM has historically had strong community support and approval.
Financial Impact:
Proceeds from the sale of municipal (LTGO) bonds will be used for this acquisition.
Options:
1. Move to approve the resolution authorizing the City Manager or designee to execute all documents necessary to acquire two lots located in the East Bay Redevelopment Short Plat, City of Olympia Master File No. 07-0154, comprising Parcel 6 consisting of approximately 0.92 acres and Parcel 7 consisting of approximately 0.65 acres, for the expansion of the Hands On Children’s Museum (HOCM).
2. Do not approve the resolution authorizing the City Manager or designee to execute all documents necessary to acquire two lots located in the East Bay Redevelopment Short Plat, City of Olympia Master File No. 07-0154, comprising Parcel 6 consisting of approximately 0.92 acres and Parcel 7 consisting of approximately 0.65 acres, for the expansion of the Hands On Children’s Museum (HOCM).
3. Direct staff to make alterations to the Purchase and Sale Agreement and return to the City Council for action at a future date.
Attachments:
Resolution
Agreement