City of Alexandria, Virginia
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MEMORANDUM
DATE: NOVEMBER 20, 2024
TO: THE HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF CITY COUNCIL
THROUGH: JAMES F. PARAJON, CITY MANAGER /s/
FROM: JAMES SPENGLER, DIRECTOR, RECREATION, PARKS & CULTURAL ACTIVITIES
DOCKET TITLE:
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Consideration of a Lease for the Arts Resource Foundation (dba Del Ray Artisans) continued use of the Colasanto Center located at 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22301.
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ISSUE: Consideration of a Lease for the Arts Resource Foundation’s (dba Del Ray Artisans) continued use of the Colasanto Center located at 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22301.
RECOMMENDATION: That City Council:
1. Receive this recommendation regarding the form and content of the proposed lease for the Del Ray Artisans use of the Colasanto Center; and
2. Schedule a public hearing on Saturday, December 14, 2024, and after the public hearing is concluded authorize the City Manager to execute the lease agreement (Attachment 1).
BACKGROUND: Founded in 1992, the Del Ray Artisans, a 501c3 nonprofit organization, has been hosting exhibits, classes, workshops, and receptions in Del Ray and specifically at the Colasanto Center since 1997. The Del Ray Artisans’ mission is to promote art for the benefit of artists and the community, and they have become a vibrant participant in the growth of Del Ray and Mount Vernon Avenue.
DISCUSSION: The Colasanto Center is free for visitors and is open 4 days per week with a holiday market each December. Additionally, as part of their lease agreement, the Del Ray Artisans provides free use of the Center to other local community groups.
FISCAL IMPACT: The $4,800 in annual rent will help offset the cost of utilities to operate the Colasanto Center which has averaged $4,019 for the past three fiscal years.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Del Ray Artisans Lease for Colasanto Center
STAFF:
Emily Baker, Deputy City Manager
Diane Ruggiero, Deputy Director, Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities