|
For Immediate Release
July 8, 2004
Oakland, Calif. (July 8, 2004) - The Port of Oakland Board of Commissioners extended a community benefits lease with the City of Oakland for Spunkmeyer Field located at Doolittle Drive, Harbor Bay Parkway, and North Airport. This field is a popular location for many, local summer athletic programs such as the Alameda-Contra Costa Youth Soccer League, the Jack London Youth Soccer League, and the Rockridge Soccer Club.
"The Port of Oakland has a history of supporting youth in the region - not only in academic excellence, but also in athletic pursuits," said Patricia Scates, President of the Board of Port Commissioners. "This lease extension means that young people in our surrounding communities will be able to continue participating in athletic programs at the Spunkmeyer Field throughout the year."
The Oakland City Council entered into a lease with the Port of Oakland in August 1999 for approximately 6 acres of land known as, Spunkmeyer Field. This field is commonly used by youth athletic clubs. The original lease term was for five years at $1.00 each year. The current market value of the property is estimated at $285,000 a year.
"We understand the value in providing a place where our youth can be involved in outdoor activities," said Port of Oakland Executive Director Jerry Bridges. "We're delighted to be able to help those who might not otherwise have a place to play their favorite team sports."
The City of Oakland recently proposed to extend the term of this lease for an additional five years and the Port Board of Commissioners voted to do the same. Thus, the first supplemental agreement would extend the lease term for an additional five years commencing September 1, 2004 and ending August 31, 2009. The annual rent will remain at $1.00. The Port of Oakland consistently gives back to the community by providing nominal leases for hundreds of acres of waterfront parkland for public enjoyment.
The Port of Oakland is the fourth largest containerport in the nation. Established in 1927 as an independent department of the City of Oakland, the Port spans 19 miles of waterfront, which includes Jack London Square, oversees more than 900 acres of maritime terminal facilities, and owns and operates one of the fastest-growing airports in the nation, Oakland International Airport.
Contact:
Harold Jones
Director of Communications
(510) 627-1564
hjones@portoakland.com
Marilyn Sandifur
Media and PR Manager
(510) 627-1193
msandifur@portoakland.com |
