Commission extends Highlands Enterprises purchase‑agreement due diligence through March 31, 2026 for proposed VA clinic site

The commission approved a second addendum to extend the purchase‑agreement conditions period for Highlands Enterprises' proposed VA clinic site so the agreement would not terminate before the Department of Veterans Affairs announces award decisions.

Staff said the addendum would extend the conditions/due‑diligence period through March 31, 2026 to coincide with the VA's expected award window. "That's why it's my recommendation," the city attorney (presenting staff) said, explaining that if the purchase agreement expired before the VA released its award, the VA reviewer might conclude the project lacked secured land and disqualify the prospect.

Chris Williams of Highlands Enterprises and Brett Powell (team member) attended the meeting; Williams had earlier provided a letter praising EDC staff assistance on property work. The city reported the VA's award window had slipped and could be released in the fourth quarter of this year or in the first quarter of next year; extending the conditions period protects the prospect while the VA selection process proceeds.

A motion to accept the second addendum extending the period to March 31, 2026 was moved, seconded, and approved by voice vote.