The developer who hopes to bring the Carlisle back to life spoke to city leaders Thursday
The mayor, members of council and city administration, and prominent business people heard Michael Chesler explain himself and his company at OU-C's Bennett Hall.
Wearing a suit jacket and faded jeans, the man who created a company that renovates nothing but historic buildings spoke Thursday afternoon.
In a direct and plain-spoken style, he showed sketch plans of how Adena Health System would occupy about 65% of the Carlisle-Howson Buildings, the city would have less than 20%, and the rest would be shop space and services.
Chesler pointed out that he is not selling the idea, he is buying into it - but he needs other investors to make it work.
Chesler explained how the Carlisle is the downtown's jewel, but as a hard-nosed businessman, if he can't get commitment from the city in time, he will walk away from a building that he figures has 2-3 years left in its current state.
In the Q&A, a local businessman pointed out that this is a different proposal than the one that was voted down, where the city planned to manage the entire building itself...but this needs to be communicated to voters and agreed by council by the preferred deadline, the end of September.
You can learn more about his company, Chesler Group.
hear Michael Chesler explain himself and his company for the Carlisle Building
Kevin Coleman regularly reports on Chillicothe & Circleville councils, and is a local preservationist...as well as news reporter.
Michael Chesler explains himself and his company for the Carlisle Building
