6 November 2017
Media: Rotorua Review
Topic: Menz Shed lease
Inquiry
I've been contacted by the Menz Shed and shown the letter telling them their lease will expire on Feb 28, 2018, and suggesting they look for new premises.
My understanding from the letter is that past the 28 Feb date only one month term leases would be available, hence the suggestion to find alternative premises.
I gather too other lease holders on the site have received similar letters, while some have recently signed new leases.
I wanted to ask whether council has plans for the land and/or premises who have received letters, and what they might be?
The Menz Shed letter notes the future of the site "is unknown" - if so , why has a move been recommended?
Lastly, will Menz Shed/Literacy Rotorua/Autism NZ Inc be given any assistance from council to find new premises or perhaps store equipment while looking?
Response
Please attribute the following statement to Rotorua Lakes Council's chief financial officer, Thomas Colle:
Menz Shed has occupied the commercial building, which it sub-leases to Literacy Rotorua and Autism New Zealand, since 2014 under strict conditions including that the lease could be terminated at any time upon six months' notice.
Council has made it clear, when renewing the lease with the Menz Shed, that the agreement contains a six month out clause should possession of the building be required by Council at an earlier date.
Council is currently reviewing the use and safety of its properties including the former commercial printing building occupied by the Menz Shed. We are currently investigating the future of the building, and as such can't offer a fixed term lease and provide security of tenure to the Menz Shed.
Unfortunately, Council has offered the Menz Shed help in finding an alternative premises but it has not accepted our support.