P&Z defers Douglass House requests, Mercer University makes offer

Jim Rollins represents the owner of the Douglass House, Lou Patel, who says he feels he’s “being bullied by organizations with money.”

Rollins went before the commission requesting the deferral, because Mercer University showed interest in purchasing the house.

Patel says the offer Mercer gave was too low, and did not satisfy his needs.

The owner claims he’s put in more than $200,000 total toward the Douglass House.  
Rollins says regardless of how low the offer may be, it’s an opportunity to negotiate a deal, so Patel can be compensated for the investment.

“I think Mercer is in the driver’s seat right now. They’re the ones who made the commitment and they’re the ones we want to talk with,” says Rollins.

Rollins did not want to say how much money Mercer offered, but says he and his client plan on talking with with the university, and other local leaders within two weeks.

Patel strongly believes an agreement will not be reached.