Pitkin County Commissioners Extend Lease for Stubbies Bar

News Desk

Pitkin County: In the final 2023 meeting of the Pitkin County commissioners, the focus was on deciding the lease renewal for Stubbies Sports Bar and Eatery in Basalt.

After 57 minutes of discussion, the board voted 4-0 in favor of granting a three-year lease with two one-year options that the bar owner can independently exercise. However, if a lease transfer is proposed, the commissioners reserve the right to reassess the agreement.

The bar owners, Trent Castleberry and Elyse Hottel, presented a petition signed by over 400 individuals, urging for a longer lease than the staff-recommended two one-year terms. Castleberry emphasized the significance of Stubbies’ patrons in shaping its identity and stability in the community.

The county’s purchase of the building in 2016 allotted space for Mountain Family Health, the county public health department, and Subway. County Manager Jon Peacock advocated for flexibility, citing ongoing studies on workspace needs, and acknowledging the desirability of Stubbies’ location.

Castleberry expressed the need for a longer lease due to future investment plans and uncertain housing circumstances. They aimed to ensure continuity for the bar and restaurant even if they had to sell.

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Commissioner Patti Clapper questioned the priority between supporting local businesses and providing office space for county employees, advocating for utilizing existing county buildings instead of developing new spaces.

Commissioner Steve Child supported a longer-term lease, highlighting Stubbies as a public benefit.

Commissioner Francie Jacober empathized with both sides, understanding the bar owner’s desire for certainty while also considering the future use of the building.

Commissioner Greg Poschman leaned towards maintaining flexibility for potential future county needs despite acknowledging the strong community support for Stubbies. He emphasized understanding the value of the bar while also recognizing the county’s potential space requirements.

Ultimately, as the discussion progressed, it was evident that the majority of the board favored a longer lease. Poschman, while labeling himself the “hard sell,” reiterated the importance of not hindering potential county needs for space in the future.

The deliberation highlighted the balancing act between supporting a local business and keeping options open for the county’s future requirements.

The news has been published in the Aspen Daily News and it is reproduced by Thepenpk.com