I agree with the Detroit News that...
The city and developer that owns the property must negotiate in good faith; they should seek independent appraisals for the land, determine the fair market value and make a settlement that will get passengers on trains and buses.However, there are a number of statements made by the Detroit News editorial writers that are not completely true.
For example, the Detroit News states, "the city must address concerns the developer has related to the location of the transit hub in the midst of the shopping center." But, if Grand/Sakwa was concerned with the potential impact, why did they voluntarily enter into the consent agreement that allowed the construction of the transit center on the site? Could it be because at one time they saw it as an asset to their property?
Here's another Detroit News misstatement: "Eventually, a new council voted to proceed with the project." Wrong. The composition of City Council did not change. Councilman Wade Fleming changed his vote when a majority of his colleagues scaled back the cost of the project.
Contrary to the belief of the Detroit News, the City of Troy did have a clear title to the property until Grand/Sakwa filed a lawsuit and then won a reversal of a lower court's decision.
Come on, Detroit News... do some research before you place this kind of information in print!
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