Last November, local developer Ken Weinstein learned he would not be appointed conservator for the Germantown YWCA. Next week, he’ll ask Judge Ann Butchart to reconsider.
And while his ask is clear, the reasoning behind Judge Butchart’s decision wasn’t.
“While we got a ruling, we did not get any justification in writing,” Weinstein said. “So we took the step of asking the judge to reconsider her ruling, which requires her to put it in writing.”
Weinstein says he was genuinely surprised by the outcome, saying he couldn’t imagine the building not being viewed as “blighted” on the day of filing in October 2023. Neighbors expressed similar sentiments in prior reporting.
Blight was the basis for Weinstein’s argument when he filed for conservatorship under Act 135, which would have permitted him control of the property to ensure the rehabilitation.
Residents say the property has some of the issues, including trash, trespassing, and safety concerns due to neglected infrastructure. And while out-of-town developer KBK Enterprises has failed to deliver on promises for eight years, the history of abandonment spans beyond 25 years.
In its long absence, neighbors have wished to see many things, mainly a mixed-use structure with affordable housing. Many of the seniors in the area, primarily at the neighboring Center in the Park and Maple Village, would also like to see the parking lot off Rittenhouse Street secured for use.
Past reporting and presence at the court hearings have indicated the overwhelming support of Weinstein as the person to move this property forward. Ahead of the hearing, Weinstein sends thanks to the community.
“We would not have taken this far if it had not been for [them],” Weinstein said.
While the support for him is overwhelming, there have been questions and criticism of the historical usage of Act 135 and its disproportionate effects on Black property owners.
The Germantown Info Hub asked Weinstein about this. He says he agrees with those criticisms but asserts that “this is different,” as this property is not a private residence.
We also asked the developer about comments from the head of PRA from early February’s board meeting, revealing the group would probably not move forward with developer KBK in the future.
“I initially supported [KBK] redeveloping this property,” Weinstein clarified. “But eight years later, they have not been able to move the needle. It’s beyond time for PRA to cancel their reservation letter. So, I was really glad to see that.”
The hearing is set to happen Tuesday, March 11, at 9:30 a.m. at City Hall in Room 453. It is open to the public to attend.