PORTLAND – The Portland City Council is looking into what to do with what has become known as the “Midtown Properties” after reacquiring the land this summer, but the council stressed this week that the public will have its say in the process.

“The Midtown properties are a critical part of Portland’s future, and any decisions about their development must reflect the priorities of our residents,” City Councilor Pious Ali, chairperson of the council’s Housing & Economic Development Committee, said in a statement this week.

Mayor Mark Dion said the city issued the statement after the council took the issue into executive session Monday night. Several residents, he said, objected.

“I understand that they want transparency,” he said. “That’s important, but from time to time, the council needs to receive legal advice and strategy advice and feel free to explore the ideas within confidentiality.” 

The properties, three separate parcels located along Somerset Street near Elm Street, have been a source of controversy ever since the city sold the lots in 2012 to a developer.

The agreement, which was supposed to lead in part to the construction of a parking garage, fell through, landing the city and the developer in court, according to Portland Mayor Mark Dion.

“There were a number of disputes that came up about how it would be developed and the financing, and it led to eight years plus of litigation,” he said.

The legal battle effectively ended in July, when the council moved for the city to buy back the property for $15 million.  

Monday’s executive session, Dion said, was not for making any decisions on development. Rather, the council sought advice on the best way to market the property to developers.

Specifically, Dion said, the council discussed whether to hire a real estate broker to help solicit developers or other buyers. The council took no votes at all during the session, he said.

As to the properties’ future, Dion said he and the council don’t know what will happen yet. Already there have been several suggestions, including the initial parking garage idea, along with housing or even permanent green space.

“All those are open questions,” he said. “All of those questions will have an opportunity for the public to come in and inform the council of their vision, their questions or concerns.” 

In its statement, city officials said they would issue a request for proposals from real estate brokers.