Greendale redevelopment commission denies assistance request from Everhome/Choice Hotels

The Greendale Redevelopment Commission voted on June 11 to decline an assistance application submitted by Everhome, a proposal tied in the discussion to Choice Hotels. Chair opened the discussion by noting the applicant’s presentation in executive session had been “a very nice presentation,” but that several questions remained unanswered about local market demand, site suitability and the developer’s requested conditions.

Commissioners said some conditions requested by the developer — including access to city electrical infrastructure and requests that the commission help fund items the buyer and seller normally manage — were not acceptable. One commissioner said the package left “a lot of questions” and recommended the city not move forward with assistance. The commission then moved to decline the application and voted in favor by voice vote; staff will notify the applicant in writing.

Why it matters: the commission’s decision removes a potential source of redevelopment funding and signals that the commission expects clarity on developer responsibilities and limits on the city’s authority before approving assistance. The commission did not adopt an alternative plan for that parcel during the meeting.

What was said: Chair characterized the proposal as “good” but incomplete, and commissioners pressed that electrical access and certain funding requests were outside the commission’s authority. No dollar amounts of assistance or binding commitments were approved.

Next steps: staff will send written notice to the applicant and may reopen discussion only if the developer submits revised terms that address the commission’s stated concerns.