News - A new challenge has emerged in Lee for the acquisition deal of the former Price Chopper.

In Lee, just as the town's Select Board prepared to finalize a purchase-and-sale agreement to acquire the long-vacant Price Chopper building, a sudden shift in the terms of the deal sent the board back to the drawing board. The property, located at 88 W. Park St. and closed since 2017, had become a focal point for potential development aimed at increasing downtown parking. Recent history saw the property embroiled in a legal wrangle after plans for transforming it into a food market and affordable housing met with opposition from Mohammed Zabian, owner of Zabian's Fine Jewelry. Zabian, whose business is nearby, cited critical parking concerns. This dispute finally settled earlier this year with Zabian acquiring the site for $1.35 million. The town made an initial offer of $1.9 million for the property, aiming to resolve downtown parking hurdles. However, Zabian rejected this, noting price concerns and legal costs accrued from the previous dispute. The potential for redevelopment was again highlighted, particularly as Zabian listed the site online for $3 million, coupled with a 'For Lease' sign. Optimism was palpable as the Select Board and Zabian appeared close to an agreement, crafted over several months, until last-minute revisions were received hours before a critical meeting. Board Chair Bob Jones expressed frustration, describing Zabian's counterproposal as an unexpected and far-reaching departure from prior discussions, leaving the board unable to address it immediately. While board members, including Sean Reigner, refrained from detailing the discrepancies, they united in postponing any decision-making until further review. Despite this delay, both Zabian and town officials are hopeful for a consensual resolution that would address Lee's persistent parking issues. Zabian remarked on the shared interests, emphasizing mutual benefits for both parties, with the potential deal set to advance to community vote should a mutual agreement be reached. The dynamic between the historical site and potential modernization underscores ongoing negotiations marked by patience and strategic dialogue.