Two developers have approached the city about trying to purchase the grassy plot on the 400 block of San Benito Street.
In response, the city is considering whether to put out a request for bids on potential “catalyst projects” for the public plot, formerly owned by the Redevelopment Agency before a forced transfer to the city with the dissolution of RDAs four years ago.
Council members at their 6:30 p.m. meeting will consider issuing RFPs that could lead to development of the cornerstone property in downtown Hollister at the intersection of Fourth and San Benito streets. Currently, as part of the state restrictions, the city occupies the plot and allows for public use such as activities by nonprofit groups.
A potential development use is unclear at this point, but in prior years, the RDA had been in negotiations with developers for a possible hotel; performing arts center; and mixed-use building with a restaurant, theater and office space, according to the council agenda report.
Development of the plot has been put on hold due to the city’s building moratorium from 2002 to 2008, due to a sewer spill, and restrictions from the state in recent years due to the RDA dissolution, Paxton said. The RDA’s involvement with the property goes back to the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, which demolished much of that area in downtown Hollister.
As for a potential price, the grassy plot was appraised at $220,000 in 2013, according to the city. A more current appraisal will be available Monday.
