Local News in Brief : Lease Scrutinized in Bias Probe of Club

Avalon officials have asked the city attorney to investigate whether the all-male Tuna Club prohibits women from becoming members and, if so, whether the club can continue to lease city-owned property.

A club official said that it does not prohibit women but that none have been nominated for membership. A new member also must be “recognized in the fishing community as being one that is active and respectful to sportfishing and conservation,” the official said.

City Councilwoman Irene Strobel said she raised the issue of “whether it’s legal to lease public property to a group that restricts females” during a discussion of a lease renewal at a council meeting. Members of the exclusive, 90-year-old club want to extend their lease on the tidelands property before repairing heavy damage the building suffered in a storm last January, Acting City Manager Pete Woolson said.

The white, New England-style building stands on the Santa Catalina Island waterfront, not far from the landmark Casino Ballroom. Last month, Tuna Club members asked the City Council to consider offering the club a 40-year lease, replacing the 10-year lease that expires in December, 1989.