Temecula Food Pantry Given Notice to Vacate

The City of Temecula’s decision to open a bid process for a community pantry and end the current provider’s $1-a-year lease was met with mixed reaction during Tuesday’s City Council meeting.

Under a license agreement between the city and TEAM Evangelical Assistance Ministries of Rancho-Temecula, the nonprofit has been operating the pantry at the 1,400-square-foot city-owned building on Pujol Street since 2007.

“At this time, the city is interested in re-evaluating current services and operations, taking into account other wrap-around services that can be considered at this location,” wrote Director of Community Services Director Kevin Hawkins in a report prepared for City Council.

Hawkins asked for Council’s approval to terminate TEAM’s license agreement and lease, and to invite similar organizations to apply for the spot.

Board representatives for TEAM who were in attendance at Tuesday’s meeting expressed worry over what may happen should the organization be forced to vacate the property.

“We hope the city will recognize the serious impact...an impact that can be avoided if a constructive dialogue takes place,” said Ken Nordstrom, board vice president for TEAM.

The current lease contains “little or no direction,” Nordstrom said.

The pantry regularly serves about 2,000 people, according to TEAM Board President Randy Taylor.

“The city has not as of yet felt it appropriate to share with us the complaints or shortcomings therefore allowing us to make...constructive changes,” Taylor said.

Marti Treckman, a volunteer at the pantry, spoke highly of the services it offers. These include access to showers, breakfast and clothes.

“I believe the citizens deserve an answer as to why this is being considered,” said Treckman, noting she sent a letter regarding the matter to city officials May 1 but did not receive any responses.

Two other members of the public, however, spoke of “rude” service at the pantry, and urged the city to move forward with seeking other proposals.

Council ultimately approved staff’s request to terminate the lease and invite other organizations to apply, but not before quizzing city management and legal staff.

“I think we are putting an undue hardship on them...” said Councilman Jeff Comerchero about the 60-day notice to vacate.

Mayor Pro Tem Maryann Edwards said: “It is mind boggling the things that they would have to do to be able to move—with the things we are asking with a question mark at the end.”

City Attorney William Curley pointed out that TEAM can apply along with the other agencies, but that the city could not legally open up a proposal process without first issuing notice.

“They have notice at the earliest point so that if the successor comes in there is no lapse (in service). If they prevail, they stay put,” Curley said. “It’s an awkward reality of property rights.”

According to City Manager Aaron Adams, staff and a subcommittee of two City Council members will review all proposals received before bringing the item back for a vote.

“I think this is stretched out probably until September,” Adams said.

Councilman Chuck Washington made a motion that they reserve the right to apply Council discretion as to how many days changeover will be given if TEAM is not chosen to continue.

With that caveat, the item was approved 4-0, with Councilman Ron Roberts absent.

“The issue is painful, it’s like issuing pink slips to teachers when not all the teachers are going to be laid off,” Edwards said.