Charles Taylor, a partner at H T West End LLC, the ownership group of The Mall West End, says the mall needs to be developed—but protecting the community is important.
“We could have sold this mall 3-4 years ago if we had been willing to sell it to someone who going to come in and do a classic redevelopment,” explained Taylor on Wednesday’s edition of “Closer Look.”
During the conversation, Taylor confirmed that Tishman Speyer, a New York real estate firm, is no longer under contract to purchase The Mall West End and confirmed that The Prusik Group is looking to purchase property that’s located a few miles from downtown Atlanta.
The West End Neighborhood Development, a coalition of residents and business owners, recently wrote a letter to The Prusik Group, requesting a meeting— citing concerns about the lack of community engagement and collaboration during the purchasing process.
In a statement to “Closer Look” Andrew Katz, the co-founder and principle of Prusik, wrote The response statement below:
“We appreciate the letter from West End Neighborhood Development and welcome the opportunity to meet with them. We are currently in the first few days of our due diligence process for the acquisition of the existing mall. As we fully understand the history of this site and its importance to the community, we have not begun any long-term planning for the center and rather are focused on the short-term viability of the Mall and sustaining its existence for the immediate future. We plan to fully engage any and all local community groups and partners to assure that the needs and desires of the community are addressed.”
Note of disclosure: Charles Taylor is the principal owner of HT West End LLC and a current board member of Public Broadcasting Atlanta.
To listen to the full conversation, click the audio player above.
