City officials: Red Lion Hotel in foreclosure

FARMINGTON — People driving along Scott Avenue may have noticed boards placed up on the windows and doors of Red Lion Hotel.

City officials say the hotel is now closed because it is in foreclosure.

The 192-room hotel was formerly a Best Western Inn, however its name was changed in 2012 following an extensive remodel, according to The Daily Times archives.

In March 2015, Red Lion Hotels Corporation signed a new franchise agreement with Chandler Hotel Group, based out of Arizona. When reached by phone last week, Chandler Hotel Group officials said the Farmington Red Lion Hotel is now managed by First Capital Real Estate Advisors.

First Capital Vice President Danny Ho did not respond to numerous phone calls seeking comment. Red Lion Hotels Corporation could also not be reached for comment.

The Riverwalk Patio and Grille, which is attached to the Red Lion Hotel, is also closed and boarded up.

During a city council work session today, Mayor Tommy Roberts asked administrative services director Andy Mason for an update about the fund paying for the planned Farmington Civic Center remodel in light of Red Lion Hotel closing.

The city of Farmington is using money generated by a $2.50 per night per fee paid by each visitor who stays in a Farmington hotel room to pay for the civic center improvements. Roberts expressed concerns that Red Lion Hotel's closure could impact that fund. Mason is expected to present those numbers to city council during its next meeting.

Hannah Grover covers government for The Daily Times. She can be reached at 505-564-4652.