City moves to sell submerged parcels amid public access debate

The Alameda City Council convened to discuss an ordinance aimed at declaring six submerged parcels along the Oakland Inter Harbor Title Canal as surplus property. The ordinance would authorize the city manager to execute purchase and sale agreements for these parcels at fair market value, requiring four affirmative votes for approval.

Michael Rausch, special counsel from the city attorney's office, provided a detailed report on the history and current status of the submerged parcels. In 2016, the city acquired these parcels from the Army Corps of Engineers, selling adjacent submerged parcels to 84 property owners for $10,000 each based on an appraisal at that time. The six parcels under discussion were retained due to existing public pathway easements.

Recent appraisals indicated varying values for the six submerged parcels, with two appraised at $10,000, two at $12,500, and two at $14,000, reflecting the presence and width of public access easements. The council has been in discussions with property owners regarding their rights to maintain and replace existing docks on these parcels, ensuring that any future construction does not obstruct public access or views of the water.

The council also addressed concerns regarding the clarity of public access to these pathways, which had historically been ambiguous. Rausch confirmed that the city would indemnify property owners for public use of the easements and would consult with them before making any improvements.

The ordinance, if passed, would comply with the California Surplus Land Act, allowing the city to proceed with the sale of the parcels at the determined fair market value. The council is expected to deliberate further on the implications of these sales and the historical context surrounding the submerged parcels before making a final decision.