Cedar Hills study on hold

Hampton said while he would love an Associated Foods member to build a store in Cedar Hills, no contracts have been drawn, and he thinks many grocers would do well there.

"I market it to everyone, and the one that has the best store and the best option to anchor is who we'll contract with," he said. "I would hope that, regardless of the vote, we can get the best store there, because it's definitely a good site for a grocery store."

The developer acknowledged that there are some stores that would not be interested if the initiatives pass.

"The initiative definitely has an impact on who is interested, there's no question in my mind," he said. "The grocery options diminish if these initiatives pass."

Hampton said he hopes that Cedar Hills residents vote based on the issues, not whether a particular store will build on his site.

"They need to make a decision based on the issues in front of them, not whether a store is ready to come or not," he said. "Because then they're banking on Kohler's coming, and maybe they won't. There's a lot of interest, not just Associated Foods, and it just needs to play out."

Despite the occasional headaches the development has caused, Hampton said he would do it again if he had the choice.

"It has made it complicated, but I would still be here," he said. "I still believe in Cedar Hills. I think almost anyone would do well in here; it's a good market."

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E-mail: mdecker@desnews.com