CLAYTON (KMOX) -- The developer of Hazelwood's 'PowerPlex' sports complex expects construction to start soon after COVID restrictions lift. He also disputes a claim that investment dollars behind the project are in question.
The allegation came from St. Louis County Councilman Ernie Trakas.
He was the only 'no' vote for sending $6 million of hotel taxes toward the plan, which would transform the former Mills outlet mall into an expansive, indoor youth sports complex.
Trakas explained his reason for wanting to hold up Tuesday's approval: "We only received, less than a week ago, copies of the risk assessment and pro forma financial statements from the city of Hazelwood and the developer."
He also doubted that pandemic-drained tourism could even muster the funding.
"It's likely there won't be sufficient hotel tax money for this $6 million," Trakas claimed.
Dan Buck, managing partner of PowerPlex developer Big Sports Properties, responds: "There will always be naysayers."
"We find it pretty ironic that Mr. Trakas makes these generalizations and comments, yet he's never visited the campus, he's never even talked with any of our funding sources, so how would he have any idea of the viability?"
Trakas wanted the council to hold the measure and have another hearing.
Buck notes that all six other County Council members voted to approve. That includes Kelli Dunaway, whose district includes the former mall.
"The reason I feel confident is that this ordinance puts [St. Louis County's portion of the funding] last in line," Dunaway said Tuesday. "So every other financial commitment has to come in before ours goes in."
The hotel tax proceeds would cover about 10-percent of the $54 million project. It's expected to create 600 new jobs.
PLAY BALL?
While some socially-distant volleyball tourneys are happening inside the dead mall, Buck says COVID needs to strike out before it can be truly transformed into the sprawling, indoor youth sports complex.
He says his banks are still in the game, but don't want to start funding building until the facility can immediately be filled with tournaments.
"There's been no timetable given to us of when restrictions will be lifted and we'll be able to operate at full capacity. We're in a bit of a holding pattern," he said.
He's confident the market for large, traveling amateur sports tournaments will rebound after the virus threat subsides. He insists tenants are also still on board.
"I'll be honest with you: we had one chain restaurant bail on its commitment. We still have eight restaurateurs and retailers who are staying the course," Buck said. "Our new theater operator is totally ready the moment we can get the sports restrictions lifted."
The mall is only 17 years old with 1.5 million square feet of space.
"I just hope people understand what a great win this is for north St. Louis County," Buck said. "Everybody is excited to get it going."