Galesburg Aldermen on Tuesday can approve a lease agreement for the Galesburg Downtown Depot to continue operating at 120 E. Main St.
The Downtown Depot currently supplies hot meals on Monday nights and non-perishable food items, diapers, hats, gloves, blankets, hygiene items, and children’s coats to whoever needs them.
The Depot started to operate at the former Papa John’s location in December 2020 for no fee.
The city allowed this arrangement, made on a verbal agreement, to give the organization time to seek not-for-profit status and find a permanent location.
In May the Council directed city staff to negotiate a lease agreement with a representative of the Downtown Depot.
The lease agreement will be for exactly 1-year with a rent fee of $1 for the term.
The City will continue to be responsible for utilities such as they have been since December 2020.
The Downtown Depot will be responsible for comprehensive general liability insurance at a minimum of $1,000,000 covering bodily injury, personal injury and property damage.
Another provision requests quarterly reports to the city describing services provided, number of individuals served, and any monetary contributions.
Director of Community Development Steve Gugliotta says that a lease protects both the city and the tenants.
Gugliotta says currently, “if an interested party wanted to lease or buy the building it could potentially lead to a situation where Ms Crock would have to leave the building ASAP.”
Gugliotta adds, “From the City’s perspective, making sure there is proper insurance and defined lease terms would reduce potential liabilities.”
