03/06/00 Taylor/Do Not Support Glacier MallJames S. Taylor
Principal
March 6, 2000
Mr. Chris Kukulski
City Manager
City of Kalispell
312 First Avenue East
Kalispell, MT 59903-1997
Dear Chris:
We are looking forward to our trip to Kalispell this week to conclude the purchase of the
Gateway West Mall and to celebrate the conclusion of one of the more complicated and
rewarding transactions with which we have ever been involved.
In preparing for this trip, I would be remiss if I did not express our concern about the
discussions regarding the potential mall in Evergreen and the City's involvement in
making it a reality. You and I have discussed this briefly and I know Doug Mitchell has
had a more detailed conversation with you.
Although we accept and understand that the City of Kalispell will continue to attempt to
attract new business, the proposed enclosed mall, if developed, will make our job in
repositioning Gateway West difficult and, perhaps, impossible. In our opinion, it would
also destroy the Gateway Center Mall as a viable shopping center and make problematic
for the historical retail core of Kalispell to prosper or even survive.
I have no idea what benefits the City might enjoy as a result of the development of this
mall in Evergreen; however, in light of American Capital's pending major investment in
the Flathead, we would like some assurances from the City that it will not support this
project. I would appreciate your sharing this letter with Mayor Boharski and the City
Council.
115 S, La Cumbre Lane, Suite 302, Santa Barbara, CA 93105 Telephone (805) 682-5551 Facsimile (805) 682-8393
As an alternative, we believe it would be in everyone's best interest to explore ways in
which we can work together to strengthen the downtown, expand Kalispell Center Mall,
and retenant Gateway West. The redevelopment of the fairgrounds site is consistent with
this goal, particularly if it is leased to larger users not presently represented in the
Flathead.
We appreciate the straightforward and professional manner in which you and everyone
else in the city has handled all of our dealings.
JST/bjr
cc: Doug Mitchell