William Ferchland -Tahoe Daily Tribune
A
judge's decision may have stalled the timeline for a massive redevelopment
project while it kept one store in business for a few more months.
Judge Jerald Lasarow denied the South Tahoe Redevelopment Agency from using
eminent domain to transform boutique store Lakeside Landing into a sales office
that would use money from presales to help finance construction.
"We are very pleased with the court's decision and happy our employees are
secure with jobs and health insurance over the winter season," said
Margaret Maxhimer, owner of the store with husband, John.
Lasarow, who heard both sides argue before him in El Dorado County Superior
Court last week, ruled Wednesday that the owners of Lakeside Landing will face
"substantial" hardship if they closed by Jan. 10, the date requested
by redevelopment officials.
Instead, the business will close April 8. Lasarow said representatives with the
redevelopment project are allowed to access the property within reason for
planning purposes.
In his ruling, Lasarow agreed with Claudia Gorham, attorney for the Maxhimers,
who argued the impending closure of a Taco Bell and an existing, neighboring
sales office could be used.
"This location (of the existing sales office) is near the major casinos and
not far from the ski gondola," Lasarow wrote. "Many visitors walk by
this location."
