Faison thought he had the four votes to pass it, but when one of the votes didn't come through as planned, he was forced to soften the motion. The revised motion, under which the city will not be considering the mall's purchase, passed unanimously.

The motion states that the City Manager will work with the Finance, Economic Development and Regional Affairs Committee to "research ways to work with current and future owners of SeaTac Mall to redevelop the mall consistent with the city's Comprehensive Plan, including possible purchase of the mall by the City as an economic redevelopment project."

While none of the members agreed to purchase the mall, most agree that Downtown development is a high priority for the city and that a renovated mall would be a key part of the city's redevelopment process. The city is currently trying to help build developer interest by cleaning up the permit process. The owner, SeaTac Mall LLC, has had no offers so far, and the city feels that a redevelopment project may be best.

SeaTac Mall is located in the heart of Federal Way just off I-5 at 320th, adjacent Celebration Park, a $20.6 million sports complex and tournament facility, and the Weyerhaeuser King County Aquatic Center. Tenants include Sears, Mervyn's and AMC 6 Theaters.