Council Directs Staff on Old Train Depot Negotiations

The Martinez City Council held a brief closed session June 17 to discuss real property negotiations for the Old Train Depot at 401 Marina Vista Avenue, signaling continued momentum on the future of the publicly owned downtown property.

• Council provides negotiation guidance on the Old Train Depot, a city-owned historic property whose disposition could shape downtown Martinez's economic development future

Old Train Depot: Behind Closed Doors

The lone substantive item on the closed session agenda was a conference with real property negotiators regarding the Old Train Depot at 401 Marina Vista Avenue, held under Government Code §54956.8, which permits closed-door discussions on the price and terms of real property transactions.

Why it matters: The Old Train Depot is a city-owned asset in downtown Martinez. How the city chooses to sell, lease, or develop the property could influence the trajectory of economic development in the downtown core for years to come.

Where things stand: The city's negotiating team included City Manager Michael Chandler, Community & Economic Development Director Jill Bergman, Assistant Community & Economic Development Director Michael P. Cass, City Attorney Matthew Summers, and Economic Development Consultant Alex Greenwood — a sizable team that underscores the complexity and importance of the deal under discussion.

Mayor Brianne Zorn reported out that the council provided direction but took no formal action.

"Council provided guidance to staff and they will be proceeding. No action occurred this evening," she said.

No members of the public attended the session in person or online, and no public comment was received.

What's next: Staff will proceed with negotiations based on the council's guidance. The next regular City Council meeting is scheduled for June 24 at 7 p.m.

Minor Items

• Councilmember Jay Howard joined virtually and Councilmember Debbie McKillop was late, but present.

• Sustainability subcommittee was set to reconvene shortly after adjournment of the closed session.