Business disputes in San Diego and throughout California can be complicated and lead to rancor and litigation. Often, these cases involve disagreements over money. It is not just private businesses that become involved in these contentious circumstances, but the city itself can claim business owners have failed to live up to their end of an agreement and seek payment through a lawsuit. Businesses that are facing these allegations should be aware of the damage it can do to them financially and within the community and try to find a workable resolution. Frequently, this requires experienced legal guidance.
City seeks almost $1.5 million from luxury hotel complex
A lawsuit was filed by the city of San Diego against a luxury hotel complex because the city claims it is owed almost $1.5 million in fees it says were contractually required. The project required a ballot measure to be approved. In its filing, the city’s representatives say it sought an out-of-court solution before it felt it was necessary to move forward with a lawsuit. According to the city, most of what is said to be owed – $1.1 million – was supposed to have been paid by the end of December 2020. It was not.
The hotel and resort was constructed 14 years ago. Its amenities include a golf course, a spa, a ballroom, meeting rooms, villas and nearly 250 hotel rooms. Money was supposed to be paid for environmental reasons as dictated by the voting process. The original owner and developer had been paying what it owed. As the property changed hands several times, payments lagged. Along with the amount it is asking for, the city wants $320,000 for fees on the villas and late fees totaling $30,000. According to the city treasurer, underpayments were ongoing for three years starting in 2015. For that, it seeks a total of $290,000.
Business litigation has major financial ramifications that require experienced help
Businesses are often portrayed in a negative light when they are accused of failing to pay what they owe and seem to flout contractual agreements. Still, the complexities of running any business can lead to missteps, misunderstandings and business litigation. This is especially true with luxury resorts that have construction, real estate, an environmental component and agreements with municipalities. Businesses confronted with these situations should be aware of how to defend and negotiate. Having assistance from experienced business advocates can be helpful in reaching a satisfactory outcome.