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A Gaithersburg law firm is considering remodeling the Kentlands Firehouse in exchange for office space, said Assistant City Manager Tony Tomasello.
The city hopes to structure a 10-year lease with Rudolph, France and Gresham, P.C., a real estate law firm of three attorneys in the Kentlands.
"They want to renovate the entire building but they would have additional space downstairs which may be available for additional tenants," said Tomasello. The firm has not yet submitted a formal proposal, but terms would likely include a remodel in exchange for a period of reduced or free rent, he said.
The city's 2008 strategic plan called for a request for proposal to transfer the building's use to a private partnership for compatible use with the community. In August, Heather France, a Lakelands resident and RFG attorney, contacted city officials about structuring a deal, said Tomasello.
Representatives of the firm have toured the firehouse and requested time for more thorough inspections by architects and contractors.
France did not return calls for comment.
Lease terms have not been discussed. Any agreement would be subject to zoning and permitting processes, Tomasello said.
The two-story building and basement were built in the early 20th century to house trucks and other farm equipment when the property was a working farm, said Richard Arkin, former president and longtime member of the board of trustees of the Kentlands Citizens' Assembly. Otis Beall Kent bought the property around 1940 and kept his private collection of antique fire engines in the building.
Until several years ago, the city leased upstairs offices to architects and a construction company, Tomasello said. The Kentlands Arts Barn uses open bays in the garage to build stage sets.
"A reversion would be wonderful," said Arkin. "One day, the recession will be over and the city will be back to expanding its programs. The need for programs in the arts continues."
Upstairs offices have not been renovated since the 1970s; the historic building has old windows, a torn-out kitchen and old carpet with wood floors underneath, Tomasello said.
