Buffalo's Battle for the Grand Hotel: A Landmark's Fate in Question
In a bold move, the City of Buffalo is taking charge of the Buffalo Grand Hotel's future, a decision that has sparked controversy and raised important questions about urban development and responsibility.
Acting Mayor Christopher Scanlon has announced that the city is moving ahead with legal proceedings to take over the hotel from its owner, Harry Stinson. This decision comes after years of unfulfilled promises and a devastating fire that left the former Adam's Mark Hotel vacant since 2021.
But here's where it gets controversial... The city has invoked Article 19 of the state's Real Property Actions and Proceedings Law, enacted in 2022, to initiate an abandonment proceeding. Acting Corporation Counsel Robert E. Quinn explained that the city will soon file a notice of intent, after which a 45-day period will commence, leading to a potential court battle.
Scanlon emphasized the urgency, stating, "We cannot allow landmark properties to deteriorate." He highlighted the property's numerous violations, back taxes owed, and a concerning number of 911 calls related to trespassing.
"The Buffalo Grand Hotel is a symbol of our city's history and potential," Scanlon added. "However, it's clear that no efforts have been made to address the issues, leaving us with no choice but to intervene."
And this is the part most people miss... The hotel's abandonment status is a complex legal matter. While it may seem abandoned, the city's actions suggest otherwise. Scanlon believes that the owner's lack of action warrants this intervention.
As the city takes these steps, the question arises: Should local governments have the power to step in when private owners neglect their properties? Is this a necessary intervention or an overreach of authority? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments. Will this move secure the hotel's future or create more controversy?
Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds, and join the discussion below!
