Town issues second RFQ/RFP for town-center developer; councilors asked not to contact applicants

Town staff released a second RFQ/RFP seeking a developer for the town-center redevelopment, Director John Coleman told the committee, with responses due in mid-September.

"The 2nd one is out, with a response date in mid September," Coleman said, and asked councilors to direct any developer inquiries to the purchasing agent so all applicants have an even playing field. "They can't contact me either, so that everyone is on an even keel," he said.

Councilor Suzette DeBethan Brown asked if a rumor that a developer with $85 million planned to invest in the Wintenberry Mall was accurate; Coleman said he was not aware of that and noted the RFQ process constrained public discussion of potential applicants. "I'm not aware specifically of that councilman," he replied when asked about the $85 million allegation, and he said staff would be pleased to brief councilors offline if appropriate.

Coleman also said Arabella has selected a compliance officer and that the letter of agreement has been sent to the town attorney; contractor names would be provided to the attorney but, per the agreement, not made public until appropriate.