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Council approves revision to downtown revitalization plan as new developer acquires key properties
Summary
Council revised the downtown revitalization project overview to reflect a new developer and LLC that purchased several downtown buildings and a church; terms, liens and architectural review requirements remain unchanged.
The Newport City Council voted to revise the downtown revitalization project overview after staff said a new developer and LLC have purchased several key downtown properties, including the First Baptist Church. Staff told council the funding amount and project rules remain the same, with liens placed on property when funds are taken and architectural or conceptual drawings required before disbursement.
The presenter said the new developer has capital and intends to begin demolition and redevelopment soon; council members emphasized that any reconstruction should fit the character of downtown. A member noted that similar programs in neighboring municipalities use liens and staged releases to protect public investment.
Council members supported the revision and a motion to approve passed on a voice vote. No new funding was requested and the council did not amend any terms of the original revitalization agreement.
