Port commissioner Joe Downing pushes for update on KGY lease, historical designation
It’s been a few months since KGY’s home on the north end of the Port of Olympia peninsula was nominated for inclusion on the Olympia Heritage Register, a move supported by the radio station general manager and heritage commission members.
Port commissioner Joe Downing asked for an update on the situation during Tuesday’s commission work session, wanting to know the status of the KGY lease and the Heritage Register nomination. He also asked whether anyone had started lease negotiations.
“I’m concerned about it,” he said. “We all know here at the port that the lease is ending at the end of next year (2024), but I’ve heard from port staff there’s not a big desire to extend it.”
KGY has occupied a spot on the port peninsula since 1960. The business and building are owned by the radio station, but the underlying land is owned by the port, which means the station has had a series of ground leases with the port over the years.
If the lease is not renewed, the land has to be restored to its previous condition. Radio station general manager Nick Kerry fears this could result in the demolition of the building that sits over Budd Inlet.
Adding the building to the Heritage Register might prevent that outcome.
Historic Preservation Officer Marygrace Goddu said the local register has more “teeth” to it than state and national registers. It largely regulates the exterior of buildings, making sure they remain intact without major alterations, although the local register does allow for paint color changes and solar panels, The Olympian has reported.
Port officials have previously said they oppose the nomination.
If the Heritage Commission approves the nomination, but the port still opposed it, it would then come before the Olympia City Council, Goddu said. If the building was ultimately put on the register and there was a desire to demolish it, that demolition permit would need to be approved, and the Heritage Commission would make a recommendation on whether to approve it to a city building official, The Olympian reported.
KGY’s Kerry said Tuesday night he is not aware of any pending action before the Heritage Commission.
The port commission is now set to talk about KGY again on Feb. 6.
Commissioner Bob Iyall said he wants more information about the role the land owner plays in the heritage register process. Commissioner Amy Evans Harding said it also would be a good time to talk about the port’s land leases.
Executive Director Sam Gibboney said she is prepared to bring some information about the process to the Feb. 6 meeting, but won’t disclose any details about a lease negotiating strategy.
“Do we want to play hardball over this lease? I guess we need to talk about it,” Downing said.
Evans Harding acknowledged KGY’s role in the area.
“The legacy of KGY has been a wonderful addition to our community and we have the utmost respect for Nick and his team,” she said.
This story was originally published January 18, 2023 at 5:00 AM.
