Title
Resolution approving a sublease agreement with Christopher Nguyen, d.b.a Six Bicycles, for the commercial space at 634 El Camino Real.
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WHEREAS, on February 12, 2025, City Council held a study session on the proposed Vacant Retail Activation Pilot Program ("Program") designed to reduce vacant storefronts and support first-time brick-and-mortar small businesses; and
WHEREAS, the Program was subsequently named Launch Local! and, on March 26, 2025, Council approved Program Guidelines establishing terms for short-term, below-market commercial leases in City-controlled spaces to activate vacant storefronts and strengthen small business development; and
WHEREAS, key elements of the Launch Local! Program include offering $1.00 per square foot triple net (NNN) leases, a $2.00 per square foot security deposit, a Tenant Improvement (TI) allowance of up to $10,000 as a rent credit, and prioritization of first-time, for-profit brick-and-mortar businesses, with an emphasis on local entrepreneurs and clients of the Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center at the Economic Advancement Center (EAC); and
WHEREAS, following Council direction, staff issued a Request for Interest (RFI) on April 1, 2025, for the vacant City-owned commercial space located at 634 El Camino Real, with proposals due May 30, 2025; and
WHEREAS, the RFI was promoted through the City's website, social media, and the Chamber of Commerce, and four informational sessions were hosted - two on-site at 634 El Camino Real and two virtually via Zoom - with materials provided in English and Spanish and other languages available upon request to ensure accessibility; and
WHEREAS, six applications were received and reviewed for eligibility and alignment with Launch Local! Program goals, with Six Bicycles and YSIPIX Photography identified as the strongest finalists based on concept strength, readiness, and activation potential; and
WHEREAS, following interviews and evaluation, staff determined that Six Bicycl...
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