I have reviewed the actual video of the Enterprise Operations for Nov. 17. Jack Nobles is the chairman. Robert Payne, then asst. City manager, is the one who gave the background on the agreement. Rusty Wells was present.
Frank Miller, Airport Director, is presenting the lease to the committee and explaining how this deal makes the Pensacola airport more competitive with other airports.
Julian MacQueen spends considerable time describing the Hyatt hotel.
At the end of this presentation. Miller said, ” I believe this is a giant leap forward for the City and the Airport. This puts us on a path of financial independence and continues to strengthen the financial picture of the Airport.”
In addressing concerns that this was a sweetheart deal, Miller said, “Clearly the intent is to maximize revenue to the Airport. I do not believe we are sponsoring any hotel development.”
Councilman Marty Donovan’s primary concern seemed to be the landscaping, but he did question why the lease was at a value less than the appraisal. John Jerralds (who didn’t serve on the committee, but spoke anyway) was concerned about the jobs created – whether they would be above minimum wage. He was upset others questioned the deal.
Sam Hall opens with “We shouldn’t punish a developer who acted in good faith.” He did protest on the short time frame for approval, but had no other objections.
No one asked about the feasibility study. Dave Cleveland, Joe Buehler, John Griffing and Jim Cronley questioned whether a fair market value was being paid.
Robert Payne did defend the process. Jack Nobles also defended the agreement and the process.
Mike DeSorbo did bring up the appraisal. Julian MacQueen showed the Asmar appraisal, defended it and questioned Cronley’s motives in questioning the appraisal. He does not mention his appraisal.
Donovan move the lease be based on the Asmar appraisal. DeSorbo seconded. MacQueen said he was okay with that.
Mayor-elect Mike Wiggins asked for more time for the council to study it further. Nobles objected – “What are we ironing out?” The committee rejected Wiggins proposal. No one opposed Marty Donovan’s motion and the committee approved the lease.
Rusty Wells made no mention that he had not had sufficient time to review the lease.
