By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

FREEPORT – The Government wants to meet with all shareholders in the group seeking to purchase Exuma’s February Point development prior to giving final approval to the $8.3 million deal.

Prime Minister Perry Christie told Tribune Business on Friday that the Government has met with only one of the principals, John McGarvey, and has requested a meeting with the other owners to verify who they are.

“Because the application would require consideration of marinas and really developing a new experience around February Point, we wanted to be satisfied we met all the purported owners of the company,” Mr Christie said.

“So far, we only met one. Prior to the final decision we have asked for the other shareholders to meet with us so that we can verify and confirm who they are and that they actually exist, which is a formal requirement, and then we will move forward to final approval.”

Mr McGarvey is seeking to acquire the February Point real estate development from the Hart family. He plans to develop a boutique hotel among the build-out options for the project.

The Florida-based investor has also acquired Exuma’s former Coconut Cove property, and his proposed Stocking Island project has been approved by the Government.

When the purchase is approved, Mr McGarvey has plans to re-do February Point with new amenities.

Tribune Business previously revealed there are plans for new units and docking facilities to be constructed, and possibly a restaurant and other amenities tying into Stocking Island.

It is understood that February Point will be gradually converted to more of a ‘mixed use’ site, as opposed to its current status as a largely residential development.

The 85-acre property, which has around 165 lots, could also see the construction of townhomes and condominiums.