Aiken, October 15, 2025
News Summary
The Aiken City Council has approved the sale of Hotel Aiken and adjacent properties to Oliver Hospitality for $2.5 million, amidst concerns raised by Council member Andrea Gregory regarding a planned parking structure. The agreement includes a 120-day inspection period and the potential for a significant development project, which has been met with both support and criticism from city officials. Further negotiations will determine the specifics of the project and its financial implications.
Aiken City Council approved the sale of Hotel Aiken and adjacent properties to Oliver Hospitality for $2.5 million on October 13, 2025. The decision was not without controversy, as Council member Andrea Gregory cast the only dissenting vote, voicing concerns regarding a planned parking structure next to the hotel.
The sale agreement includes a 120-day extendable inspection period, allowing Oliver Hospitality the option to cancel the agreement without cause during this timeframe. The closing on the sale is expected to occur within 30 days following the inspection period.
Details concerning the development of the new parking garage, including its size and number of parking spaces, which are anticipated to be fewer than 200, are still under negotiation. City Manager Stuart Bedenbaugh noted that the purchase and sale agreement would lead to a development agreement to clarify the responsibilities of both the developer and the city.
Gregory criticized the arrangement, labeling it “bad business” and asserting that it places financial disadvantages on the city. She pointed out potential costs for constructing the parking facility, projecting expenses between $4.5 million and $6 million. Gregory warned that the total expenditure, estimated at $12 million, would take approximately 30 years to recoup.
In defense of the project, Council member Ed Girardeau countered Gregory’s statements, suggesting that the parking garage would benefit the public, not just hotel guests. The approval followed discussions on how the project aligns with the city’s historic overlay. Additionally, the development would require majority approval from the Design Review Board.
City attorney Gary Smith stressed that the agreement remains in its early phases and emphasized that many formal steps would need to be completed before finalizing the deal. Leading up to the council’s decision, the use of the properties had been the subject of public discussion and commentary.
Background Context
The sale of Hotel Aiken is a significant development for the city, which has been experiencing ongoing discussions regarding its downtown growth and development strategy. The hotel and adjacent properties have been under scrutiny as city leaders aim to enhance services and facilities that will serve both residents and visitors.
Key Facts
- Sale Amount: $2.5 million
- Inspection Period: 120 days, extendable
- Closing Deadline: Within 30 days following inspection period
- Expected Parking Garage Spaces: Fewer than 200
- Projected Costs for Parking Structure: $4.5 to $6 million
- Total Expenditure Estimate: $12 million over 30 years
FAQ Section
What was approved by the Aiken City Council?
The Aiken City Council approved the sale of Hotel Aiken and adjacent properties to Oliver Hospitality for $2.5 million on October 13, 2025.
Who voted against the sale and why?
Council member Andrea Gregory was the lone dissenting vote against the approval, expressing concerns about plans for a parking structure adjacent to the hotel.
What are the financial implications discussed regarding the project?
Gregory highlighted the potential costs of the parking structure, arguing that it would serve primarily one hotel and not benefit the broader downtown area, suggesting it could lead to a total expenditure of $12 million over 30 years.
What role will the City Manager and City Attorney play in the development process?
City Manager Stuart Bedenbaugh indicated that the purchase and sale agreement moves forward into a development agreement that clarifies responsibilities, while City attorney Gary Smith emphasized that the agreement is still in the initial phases, requiring significant steps before finalizing the project.
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Hotel Aiken Sale Approved
- WFXG: Aiken City Council Work Session
- WJBF: Aiken City Council Rejects Tiny Home Proposal
- WRDW: Aiken City Council Candidates Filing Period
- Wikipedia: Aiken, South Carolina
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