BURLINGTON, Vt. (AP) - A former developer of a proposed giant redevelopment project in Vermont’s largest city wants to take the reins again, but some officials have concerns about that.
Last month, Burlington Mayor Miro Weinberger said the city learned that developer Brookfield Properties was planning to pull out of the project. That would leave management to Don Sinex, a partner in the venture who had previously been in charge and wants to work with local partners.
Demolition for the project began more than two years ago, but has not progressed. Now there is a hole in downtown Burlington awaiting construction.
Not everyone is happy about the return of Sinex.
“I have deep doubts about Sinex’s ability to move this project forward regardless of whether he has local partners on board or not,” City Council President Max Tracy said.
Weinberger said Sinex’s company, Devonwood, has yet to provide the city basic project information.
“Along with my new partners, Devonwood is anxious and excited to get the delayed project moving ahead and Devonwood looks forward to a positive and productive working relationship with the City and the Mayor in our efforts,” Sinex said in a statement.
Weinberger said Devonwood is asking the city to drop its claims against Brookfield to commit to new development agreement with Devonwood “and to save our questions for later.”
He added, “That approach is not going to work. Brookfield and Devonwood must propose a more reasonable and responsible path forward if they wish to avoid litigation.”
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