HILLSDALE — City officials have approved yet another extension for the long-delayed Keefer House Hotel, pushing the deadline for completion to Sept. 30.
Assistant City Manager Sam Fry told members of Hillsdale City Council that CL Real Estate Development continues to make progress on the historic downtown redevelopment, which received an original Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Act Tax Abatement in April 2019.
The project’s previous completion deadline was June 30, but councilmembers voted to approve the extension after touring the building June 15.
Developers have been given a “final” extension at least twice already, including a fifth deadline extension in October 2025 and a sixth in December. The redevelopment was initially slated for completion in 2022, but that deadline has been pushed by unanticipated structural issues, a global pandemic, ensuing supply shortages, a lack of skilled tradesmen and, most recently, a change in general contractor.
Brant Cohen of CL Real Estate and Nathan Dean of Global Builders — the project’s new general contractor — told officials work is advancing inside the building. The second floor is being finished, they said, and the third floor is substantially complete.
They added millwork for the kitchen is expected within the next couple of months, with a certificate of occupancy anticipated by mid-August. Developers have also reportedly hired a general manager and head chef to operate the hotel and restaurant, according to Cohen.
The decision to grant another extension didn’t come without debate. Initially, Councilmembers Matt Bentley and Jacob Bruns moved to decline the request.
“I don’t understand why we’d want to go with a negative taste in our mouth,” said Councilmember Greg Stuchell, noting officials have thus far supported the project.
Councilmember Gary Wolfram noted clear signs of investment during the tour June 15.
“They’re clearly spending money toward getting the hotel and kitchen opened,” he said.
Bentley acknowledged the improvements, but noted the extension wouldn’t have a strong immediate impact unless Hillsdale pursues revocation of the tax abatement before October.
“It’s much improved and it’s going to be a beautiful space once it’s open,” he agreed.
The initial motion to deny failed 3-5, and was followed by a vote of approval.
— Contact reporter Corey Murray at cmurray@hillsdale.net or follow him on X, formerly Twitter, at @cmurrayhdn.
This article originally appeared on Hillsdale Daily News: Keefer House Hotel deadline again extended by Hillsdale City Council
Reporting by Corey J. Murray, Hillsdale Daily News / Hillsdale Daily News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Corey J. Murray, Hillsdale Daily News | USA TODAY Network
