Three Developers and three developments

Friends,

The question that is asked frequently is "Are there really three Developers looking at Salado?  In the past it has been said, "Developers are interested and then nothing happens."

The straightforward answer is "Yes, their money is on the table and a contract is signed."  No rumor; no hearsay, that is fact.

Here they are:

Sanctuary -- Developer, Robert Sulaski, met with citizens 20 october and gave a powerpoint presentation complete with map of what the project might look like.  He took questions from the floor and answered them.  This week's Village Voice gave an overview of the meeting that lasted for about 1.5 hours.  To add to the land already owned, Mr. Sulaski has purchased Wild Fire, the roping arena on Holland road.  One does not make those kind of purchases unless they are serious.

Robertson Planation Land -- Robert Young, College Station, and a Houston Developer has a contract on the 585 acres of land that does not include the plantation house.  When asked, if this can be discussed, the answer was "Yes, it has been announced.  We are now discussing with Sanctuary Developers how we can compliment each other in our plans."  No other details have been given, but this is no longer speculation -- money is on the table and a contract signed.

Stage Coach Inn -- The potential buyer has a contract on Stage Coach Inn.  Negotiations and planning are on going, therefore, nothing else can be said at this point.  What can be said is that "Stage Coach will remain Stage Coach only completely refurbished."  Again, money is on the table and a contract signed.

From talking with each of these Developers what is known:

1.  Salado did not go looking for them.  They had been looking at Salado for a lengthy period of time.  The Stage Coach developer started coming to Salado with his family at the age of 7.  His memories of Salado are fondly expressed.

2.  They want to develop quality.

3.  They respect the historical values and real estate of Salado.  They do not want to compete against the historical downtown.

4.  Sanctuary spent a large amount of money Monday evening to "hear" from the citizens of Salado.  And, they did.  The citizens asked very straightforward questions and offered their opinions. It was excellent "give and take."

5.  They each expressed interest in coming into the city limits.

6.  They are interested in the outcome of the 4 November election.

Will this really happen?

1.  As mentioned earlier, there is real money on the table and signed contracts.  Like all business deals, nothing is final until it is final.  TIME WILL TELL.

2.  When they are asked, "is this really going to happen?"  The answer without hesitation is "yes."

3.  The village has NOT started any negotiations with them.  Just listened.  The Village is beginning to "ramp-up" its Planning and Zoning Committee and other entities to ensure the quality and ambiance of Salado remains.

4.  Change is coming.  There is no way to stop it.  It must be planned carefully and wisely.  That is number one priority.  WE MUST BE PREPARED!  If not, Belton, Harker Heights, Killeen, and Temple will dictate for us.  This is not a fear-tactic -- they are coming and their intentions are to surround Salado because they need property tax money.  When this happens, they will dictate what stores will come.

VR/Skip