A downtown Corpus Christi hotel that has been at the center of controversy is officially open, according to a social media message.
In a June 12 Facebook post, downtown Homewood Suites by Hilton representatives wrote that the hotel had checked in its first guest and “crossed a milestone we’ve been working toward for months.”
“We’re excited to welcome guests, create memorable experiences, and officially call Downtown Corpus Christi our home,” it states.
The hotel is located at 402 Lomax St.
Sales tax incentives awarded for the hotel’s development have been at the crux of a lawsuit filed by a competing hotelier, as well as the upcoming removal hearing of the mayor.
Critics say Homewood Suites hotel developers intentionally altered a screenshot in a presentation to the council about the project, with the intent to mislead.
Supporters have said it was an inadvertent oversight.
Hotel developers have denied wrongdoing.
Both a law enforcement investigation and outside legal review also concluded no criminal wrongdoing.
The City Council issued a default letter in May with language stating the basis as stemming from the use of “misleading material representations made to the Type B Corporation.”
However, the council’s authority is limited because the contract is between the company and a city-appointed board that oversees sales taxes.
Kirsten Crow covers city government and water news. Have a story idea? Contact her at kirsten.crow@caller.com.
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This article originally appeared on Corpus Christi Caller Times: A hotel mired in controversy has opened in downtown Corpus Christi
Reporting by Kirsten Crow, Corpus Christi Caller Times / Corpus Christi Caller Times
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By Kirsten Crow, Corpus Christi Caller Times | USA TODAY Network
