Framework Group, LLC, who was awarded the development and acquisition of the North Lake Mirror site. But now may ask for more time to purchase 14.5 acres of city-owned land along Lake Mirror. The request is raising some concerns.
Alis Drumgo, director of the Lakeland Community Redevelopment Agency, said the Framework Group may seek a 60-day extension to finalize the $3.66 million sale of the future Mirrorton apartment complex site.
“In our general conversations, we have laid the foundation potentially for us to need another 60 days to close it out,” he said. “Hopefully, we will be able to present on that at the budget session next week and to finalize terms with the city attorney.”
Drumgo did not provide a specific reason to the CRA advisory board July 11.
It will be up to the CRA board members to decide whether or not to give Framework Group the time requested.
“We could say, ‘Thanks, but no thanks. Close it or walk,’” Cory Petcoff, a CRA board member and president of Lakeland-based Baron Realty, said.
With 305 apartments and townhomes set on 14.5 acres,
Mirrorton is designed to be both nestled in and a seamless extension of its
surroundings. Its urban neighborhood design and planning emphasize the
street-level pedestrian experience, and the building architecture combines
traditional brick and stucco materials with a contemporary massing and
aesthetic. Mirrorton also unveils a welcomed mix of top-end finishes and
unexpected appointments. From granite counters and wood floors, to high
ceilings, abundant natural light and more, Mirrorton showcases a level of
detail as thoughtful and refined as it is inviting.
Also, at another level are Mirrorton’s master plan and amenities package. The
layout features open green space with live oaks, wide sidewalks, an adjacent
dog park, and a grand lawn next to a clubhouse. But not just any clubhouse.
Because at more than 8,000 square feet, Club Mirrorton goes far beyond current
perceptions when it comes to resident luxuries in Lakeland.
Club Mirrorton offers a fitness center and coffee bar, spa with sauna and
massage services, resident kitchen, pet spa and speakeasy. There’s also a
conference room, computer room, game room and private party room, as well as a
resort style pool and patio. More than an amenity, Club Mirrorton is a destination
unto itself.
This is the second potential setback announced by the Tampa-based developer. The land sale between Lakeland CRA and the Framework Group was first tentatively slated for March. At that time, Drumgo said the March closing date had been delayed due to the federal government’s 35-day shutdown earlier this year.
The Framework Group seeks to fund construction of the 305-unit multifamily housing project through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, whose operations were limited by the shutdown.
When Lakeland commissioners were asked to approve a lower sale price for the 14.5-acre parcel in April, Mayor Bill Mutz questioned Drumgo on the developer’s commitment.
“We don’t sense any reluctance on their part,” Mutz said in April.
Under the original contract with the city, the developer was to close on the sale by the end of May. There were four, 30-day automatic extensions built into the agreement to account for possible issues and setbacks. The last extension expires Sept. 21.
“It will be our decision to make once they tell us why they need the extension, what they plan on doing with the time, and how much they are going to fix,” Petcoff said.
The CRA board also floated the idea of requesting additional fees from the developer.