So, is the City of Brewton thinking of getting into the hotel business?
That was the question readers and Brewton Standard Facebook friends posed after the city council’s decision last week to spend approximately $10,000 on a hotel market survey.
Described as a “marketing tool” for the city’s economic development, the survey is the “first step in attracting investors to Brewton,” city officials said.
However, Mayor Yank Lovelace said residents shouldn’t worry that the city is looking to invest in the private sector.
“Is the city looking to get into the hotel business? Absolutely not,” Lovelace said. “The city is behind anything that can help achieve growth in Brewton. This survey will hopefully help us do that. We just want a hotel built in Brewton. Period.”
Brewton is currently lacking in lodging choices after the closure of the Ramada Inn earlier this year because of roofing issues. Owner Sarju Patel said her family plans to construct a new chain hotel on the site instead of renovating the building.
Patel said last week the plan is “still a go,” and that the deal is in its final stages of completion.
“There are a few things we have to get worked out, but, yes, it is coming to Brewton,” Patel said.