The City of SeaTac will receive $9 million less in estimated revenue this year.

But SeaTac lawmakers also voted June 22 to not spend $18.1 million in capitol expenditures that were part of the original budget. That left a net gain of $9.1 million.

The money the council decided not to spend this year was mainly for acquisition of property in the city's planning area across the street from the SeaTac City Center/Airport light rail station. Lawmakers also voted to not build a gathering place plaza in the area.

The action is part of the city's retreat from a plan for an entertainment district near the light-rail station. Council members and city staffers traveled to entertainment districts throughout the country to gather ideas for a city center that would attract airport travelers and city residents.

Lawmakers voted to condemn a surface parking lot owned by James and Doris Cassan. They planned to build a public parking garage and multiuse facility for those gathering in the entertainment district on the property.

However, the condemnation action and entertainment district plan recommended by consultants sparked fierce opposition from local businesses, some residents and property rights advocates. In addition, two new members were elected to the council who were skeptical of the plan.

Comprehensive plan amendments introduced June 22 by planning director Steve Butler also pointed to the change in direction.

One of the plan amendments would remove an arterial street planned for approximately South 181st Street, east of International Boulevard.

Gordon Tang, owner of the Jet Motel property, previously told the council the "goofy" new street would divide up his parcels.

He reported he has a deal to build an eight-story Marriott Hotel on the property. If forced to build the hotel on one acre instead of all three acres, Marriott would have to charge $300 per night for a room instead of $150, according to Tang.

The Jet Motel advertises itself as the closest motel to Sea-Tac International Airport.

Butler noted the council is currently reconsidering the station area plan and has directed his staff to develop alternatives as part of this year's comprehensive plan amendment process.

He said the council could rescind the station plan entirely, make a major revision or retain the plan. Butler said staff believes the council and property owners want the major revision.

John Houlihan, the Cassans' attorney, said if the council opted for a major revision, the city should conduct a "transparent and robust process."