ALLEGAN, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — A new proposal to sell Allegan park property to the developers of a hotel will be up to voters in March.
The ballot proposal asks voters to allow the city to sell .33 acres of Mahan park located along the Kalamazoo River, and redraw it’s boundaries with the acquisition of .38 additional acres of new parkland.
Allegan voters will weigh in on the question during a municipal election on March 10th. The city’s charter specifically requires that any park land sold must be approved by city residents.
The proposed hotel would be built on parkland adjacent to Brady Street, on the northwest portion of the property.
Prior to making it on the ballot, many residents voiced fustration with the plan because of the park’s historical significance to Allegan. The location was named after James E. Mahan, a doctor who helped establish the local health department and city hospital.
Some also oppose the rearrangement of the park, with the dismantling of the existing gazebo and possible destruction of park scenery that’s been the same for decades.
Proponents say construction would include improvements to Mahan Park, featuring the building of a new gazebo, new bathrooms, and redesigns to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
The hotel proposal submitted by CL Enterprises plans for a four story building with 40 parking spots located underneath the building.
