DISCUSSION ITEM
SPONSOR: City Council Vice President Ann Hill
SUBJECT:
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900 EAST JACKSON STREET - MALCOLM YONGE GYM
end
SUMMARY:
This item seeks to discuss the use, future and possible surplus of the Malcolm Yonge Gymnasium property.
Malcolm Yonge Gymnasium was named for Malcolm Yonge, who was an original member of the Recreation Board from 1943 until his death in 1951, serving as Chairman for two years. While under his direction, several youth centers were built, parks added, and other projects extended in scope. A native Pensacolian, he also served as chief deputy tax collector under John R. Jones and attended Alabama Polytechnic Institute (now known as Auburn University). The center was dedicated on July 27, 1961.
As of today, the Gym offers senior programs, such as pickleball and volleyball, and youth basketball and volleyball camps (pre-pandemic). With citizens participating from all over the area, these programs can easily be relocated to other resource centers with as little as two weeks lead time.
Malcolm Yonge Gym also currently houses the Lighthouse Academy.
In keeping with Council policy, an appraisal of this property was received by City staff in September 2019, and notices will be mailed to property owners within the 300-ft radius of the property. To facilitate the sale of the property, the Mayor or his designee will determine the most efficient effective method to market the parcel. Once a buyer is identified, the proposal will be presented to City Council for consideration.
During the September 2020 workshop, three options were presented: (1) a long-term lease with Lighthouse Academy, (2) selling the property, (3) keeping the property and using the land for affordable housing. This item seeks to provide further guidance to city staff.
PRIOR ACTION:
September 21, 2020 - City Council held a Workshop wherein the Malcolm Yonge Gym was discussed.
August 13, 2020 - An item to declare 900 E. Jackson as surplus was brought before City Council, the item was withdrawn by the Sponsor (Mayor) prior to any action being taken.
STAFF CONTACT:
Don Kraher, Council Executive
ATTACHMENTS:
1) Appraisal Report - 900 E. Jackson St.
2) Aerial from property appraiser - 900 E. Jackson St.
3) Emails form Lighthouse Academy
4) Portion of email from Gregg Harding regarding Malcolm Yonge Gym
5) Provided by Councilwoman Hill
PRESENTATION: No