By Joe Anuta
Plans to develop the RKO Keith’s Theatre are still in a holding pattern as the Federal Aviation Administration has not issued a final ruling to allow construction, but developer Patrick Thompson also faces nearly $400,000 in unpaid taxes and the potential sale of the property as a tax lien, according to city records.
In January, the FAA gave a green light to the project, saying that it would not interfere with incoming planes attempting to land at LaGuardia Airport. But at the 11th hour, a petition was filed that prevented the agency’s ruling from becoming final.
According to Michael Nussbaum, spokesman for Thompson, the developer is currently rebutting each of the arguments that were made as part of the petition.
“When the FAA gives the final ruling, demolition permits will be filed with the buildings department,” he said.
But Thompson faces more hurdles from the city Department of Finance.
According to the department, Thompson did not pay any of his property taxes since January 2011. The fees come to $379,585 in property taxes, $1,900 in water bills, and $180 in additional charges.
The outstanding total balance of $381,698 means that the property is in danger of being put on the list of tax liens for sale, according to the finance department.
If the lien were to be put up for sale, anyone would be able to purchase the property for the exact amount that is outstanding at the time, the department said.
Thompson has until May 17th to enter into a payment plan with the city to prevent the property from being put on the tax lien sale list, according to the department.
According to Nussbaum, the balance will paid immediately.
“That will be taken of very shortly,” he said. “It will not go past May.”
Reach reporter Joe Anuta by e-mail at januta@cnglocal.com or by phone at 718-260-4566.
