After a bond measure failed in 2024, the Marina City Council is contemplating a Plan B to upgrade its aging facilities.
Estimates put the cost of a new city hall, police station and fire station at roughly $63 million. The city, meanwhile, estimates it’s short about $47 million.
The council on March 3 unanimously decided to move forward with a consultant to gauge residents’ thoughts on a 7 percent utility users tax that could be on the November ballot to close the shortfall.
The council also directed staff to look at exemptions and a discount program for low-income residents.
Two sites have been floated for a new city hall: Vince DiMaggio Park and Monterey-Salinas Transit’s vacant property next to the bus station on Reservation Road.
City Manager Layne Long said MST representatives have indicated their property is ripe for selling, yet it needs to go through its board for approval. The cost of the property is unknown, as it has not been appraised, and some council members expressed concern that the cost may influence the percentage of the utility tax that goes before voters.
The council voted 3-2 to direct staff to consult with MST on appraising the site, with Mayor Bruce Delgado and Councilmember Kathy Biala dissenting.
Delgado suggested the city should also get a cost estimate for prepping the site at Vince DiMaggio Park. Biala noted that the appraisal from MST won’t give a definitive answer as to whether it is willing to sell the property.
Public surveying on the tax measure is expected to take place in the coming months.