The City of Wayzata is bracing for the potential accelerated demolition of the Wayzata Bay Center, with discussions revolving around the possibility of a one-time demolition rather than phased removal.
In an impromptu City Council meeting held last Tuesday at 7:30 am, Council Members addressed concerns and Mayor Willcox shed light on the reasons behind the accelerated considerations.
Mayor Willcox responded to inquiries about the sudden move, stating, “What spurred last Tuesday’s workshop was that we had been given some updated information on the Bay Center construction schedule. Not surprisingly, original assumptions have had to be adjusted as credit markets and retail conditions deteriorated.”
While reports suggest the likelihood of a comprehensive demolition, it remains uncertain at this point. Willcox commented on the uncertainty, saying, “Whether the center will come down all at once depends on a number of factors including how many tenants are left and for how long. If all of the leases are settled, the developer could raze the center all at once rather than phase it out. If they are unable to reach satisfactory agreements, it could stretch out longer. We don’t know.”
Addressing the pressing issue of relocating the Muni, Willcox emphasized, “Whatever happens, though, it was clear that we need to reach some resolution on our next steps if we want to avoid a break in service and revenue… In either case, we expect the Muni to come down by year-end.”
In conclusion, the Mayor indicated that while the possibility of the entire center being razed simultaneously exists, it is not confirmed. The potential scenario underscores the urgency to address the Muni’s relocation, as evident from the City’s communication to property owners and residents this week.
A relocation meeting is scheduled to take place immediately after the City Council Meeting on January 20th, 2009.
