By Dave Fidlin
Correspondent
A dormant 10.8-acre parcel along Elkhorn Road in Whitewater could be home to a mixed-use development in upcoming years. Before any ground is broken, however, a number of reviews will take place in the coming months.
Representatives of Chicago-based senior living development company MHDC came before the city’s Community Development Authority on Dec. 17 and discussed plans for the property, which is located near the roundabout.
MHDC has pitched a project that would combine disparate amenities: a hotel, indoor sports complex and a senior living facility. According to MHDC, the plan is based on data gleaned from focus groups, which suggest all three amenities are needed in the community, albeit in a scaled-down form.
A number of specific details, including how many units the senior living facility and hotel would accommodate, still need to be fleshed out.
There was enthusiasm when the CDA combed through the plan with MHDC’s details. But a number of concerns, including the market-rate valuation and assessment of the property, continue to permeate.
One sticking point that came up during the discussion was the proposed $625,000 purchase price and whether it was in line with market rates.
“This was a negotiation,” City Attorney Wally McDonell said of discussions between the city and developer. “Ultimately, we had a discussion … and all of us were comfortable with it and thought it was fair.”
CDA Chair Jeff Knight said he sees value in the project, though questioned some components, including senior living. That component of the overall development proposal is more recent in the planning stage.
“I like what you’re proposing,” Knight said to the MHDC representatives. “I’m just a little uncomfortable with the (purchase price) deal. But in the end, we could be fine.”
Speaking to his questions and concerns, Knight said, “I think the things I’m asking about are inconsequential if this is a real deal.”
Plans call for MHDC to share their proposal at the next Common Council meeting on Tuesday.
