City of Tampa to Explore Selling “Big Blue”

As today’s meeting entered its tenth hour, Council member Lynn Hurtak brought up the news that the administration is moving forward with a plan to sell Tampa Police Headquarters. What was conveyed to council members in a call this week was the expected selling price is $36 million dollars. No details seemed to be shared beyond that.

Most of council seemed caught off guard by the move. Hurtak started the discussion by saying “Personally I’m disappointed that we weren’t asked.”

“Is Big Blue even paid for?” Asked Council member Guido Maniscalco.

Council Chair Alan Clendenin framed the issue differently in that it’s within the admin’s rights to issue the Request for Proposal (RFP) and that council would have final approval over any contract.

Ultimately council motioned to request staff appear at the January 22, 2026 council meeting for a discussion on the future of TPD head quarters and the building they currently operate out of.

Council member Luis Viera remarked “once the contract comes through to us, there’s a different level scrutiny applied.”

Ironically, Tampa City Council approved unanimously on consent a $800,000 contract with a consultant to create a Facilities Management Master Plan which included “planning for the replacement of outdated structures” and to “assist in prioritizing funding for critical infrastructure replacements and upgrades, ensuring that all recommended capital projects are consistent with the City’s strategic goals and financial constraints.” The terms of the contract are through the completion of construction, though construction of what isn’t defined. Fire and police stations fall under Facilities Management’s purview.