“Although no one said it outright, it is clear to all that RAND is feeling—and will continue to feel—the impact of current government funding cuts on their study workload, as well as the effects of a work-from-home culture on the efficient use of their current home across from City Hall and the Court building” writes Sam Tolkin in the latest SM.a.r.t. Column
At the June 18th meeting of the City of Santa Monica’s Planning Commission, over which I presided, we approved—albeit with mixed emotions—our recommendation to the City Council to terminate the RAND Corporation’s original Development Agreement. Although no one said it outright, it is clear to all that RAND is feeling—and will continue to feel—the impact of current government funding cuts on their study workload, as well as the effects of a work-from-home culture on the efficient use of their current home across from City Hall and the Court building.
They are hoping the City will allow mixed uses within the building, which I believe is a prelude to potentially selling the property. I fully support their request to modify permitted uses. What would be truly unfortunate is if RAND were to leave Santa Monica entirely. The corporation’s history is deeply intertwined with the growth of our City. In 1946, it was spun off from Douglas Aircraft’s Research and Development Division. The “R & D” label later evolved into the acronym RAND.
My point is simple: the City Council should grant their land-use revision, but also do everything possible to help them find suitable space within Santa Monica’s borders. Any financial gain from changes to the original Development Agreement would likely be minor compared to the economic and cultural value RAND brings to our community.
I’m not an economist, but I know their presence has been—and can continue to be—a powerful stimulant to Santa Monica’s economy, as well as a point of civic pride.
Our business development leaders should not sit back and watch them leave. Instead, they should take an active role in helping RAND stay. Like the airport, Rand represents an essential part of our City’s DNA. But unlike the airport, Rand is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization. There is no downside to keeping their headquarters here.
I believe there are existing buildings along Olympic and Colorado Boulevards that could easily meet the needs of this eminent research institution. As an architect, I also believe that viable adaptive reuse alternatives exist. I was involved in the design of an iconic building in Pittsburgh for the American Institute of Research, which faced a similar challenge. They too vacated a purpose-built facility but maintained a presence in Pittsburgh by rethinking their space needs.
One option for RAND would be to sell its building and lease back the portion needed to meet its specific spatial and security requirements. Based on what was expressed to me on the 18th, I have no doubt that thoughtful design can meet their operational and security needs.
While RAND can certainly choose to relocate, with our full cooperation, we may still convince them to remain here. I also urge members of our thriving commercial real estate community to step in and help ensure this world-renowned institution keeps its headquarters in our city.
By Sam Tolkin, Architect (former Planning Commissioner)
For SMa.r.t
Santa Monica Architects for a Responsible Tomorrow
Mario Fonda-Bonardi AIA, Architect & former Planning Commissioner; Robert H. Taylor AIA, Architect; Dan Jansenson, Architect & former Building and Fire-Life Safety Commission; Samuel Tolkin Architect & former Planning Commissioner; Michael Jolly, AIR-CRE; Jack Hillbrand AIA, and Landmarks Commission Architect; Phil Brock, former SM Mayor (Ret); Matt Hoefler, NCARB, Architect
For previous articles see www.santamonicaarch.wordpress.com/writing
