Jekyll Island Board Asked to Change Hotel Deal

SAVANNAH, Ga. (AP) - Jekyll Island's governing board is being asked to approve new lease terms for its planned 200-room convention hotel, which has been unable to break ground because of financial problems.

The Jekyll Island Authority board meets Monday and the agenda includes an amended lease for the proposed beachfront Westin hotel.

Jekyll Island spokesman Eric Garvey said details of the deal were still being worked out Friday. The Brunswick News reported draft documents show Jekyll Island may give the hotel some financial help and agree to cut its rent.

Developers planned to start construction of the Westin in September, but couldn't secure financing for a $25 million loan.

Georgia taxpayers have spent $50 million on a new convention center and other improvements to lure more tourists and meeting business to Jekyll Island.