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LEASE AGREEMENT WITH THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE LAKE AFTON PUBLIC OBSERVATORY.
Presented by: Ron Holt, Assistant County Manager.
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Authorize the Chairman to sign the lease agreement.
PUBLIC COMMENT
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Sedgwick County entered into a venture to build an observatory with the City of Wichita, Wichita Public Schools, and Wichita University nearly 40 years ago by creating a 501(c)(3) entity. The Observatory was in operation until August 22, 2015, when Wichita State University, the last remaining partner with Sedgwick County, ceased operations at the Observatory. Since that time, the Kansas Astronomical Observers (KAO) has pursued the reopening of the Observatory.
Alternatives: Do not approve the lease. Either renegotiate the terms of the lease, begin the process of locating another tenant, or determine a new use for this facility.
Financial Considerations: The County retains ownership of the facility, however the terms of the lease state that the tenant is responsible for utilities, repairs, and maintenance.
Legal Considerations: This is a two (2) year lease, with the option to automatically renew for three (3) one-year periods, thereafter, unless either party provides thirty (30) days written notice.
Policy Considerations: None.