Candidates: Newpark Mall needs coordinated ownership plans, mixed uses and public partnerships
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Summary
All candidates said Newpark Mall redevelopment stalled and needs coordinated action among multiple owners; Mayor Hannon said Brookfield let permits lapse, Miguel emphasized dealing with parcel owners (Costco, Macy's) and Martinez urged aggressive partnership outreach.
When asked how to restart the stalled Newpark Mall plan, candidates described a common diagnosis — multiple parcel owners and market conditions — and different emphases for restarting development.
Jason Miguel emphasized that multiple owners (including Costco and Macy’s) require a coordinated approach: “You have to work with all 4 parties…so that all 4 are in tune,” he said, and proposed smaller, denser units targeted at younger residents.
Mayor Michael Hannon described a previously robust Newpark proposal that he said included more than 1,500 rental units; he said Brookfield Properties allowed a two‑year permit to expire and cited market headwinds such as high interest rates, but expressed willingness to reexamine a mixed rental/owner plan with affordable units.
Alyssa Martinez urged the city to pursue alternative partnerships and incentives to entice property owners to develop, saying residents she canvassed are eager to see the project move forward.
Candidates agreed the mall’s revitalization will require collaboration between owners, developers and the city and that any plan should include affordable units. No single redevelopment plan was approved at the forum; all options remain subject to owner cooperation, financing and permits.
