A city official tells GlobeSt.com that the new tax levy simply reflects the fair market value of the land and was not intended to force the land sale. A spokesman for the family did not return a call from GlobeSt.com seeking comment.
The move was another salvo in the city's fight to force development of the sprawling South Boston waterfront parcel. In the last month, city officials have threatened to take the land by eminent domain in a bid to force the Pritzkers, owners of the Hyatt hotel empire, to sell the property. Mayor Thomas Menino also has threatened to challenge city permits issued for the property that will allow the land to be developed into three million sf of mixed use. In addition, the Boston Redevelopment Authority said it will decide whether to renew the Pritzker's parking permit for the land which allows for the parking of 1,530 vehicles. That parking permit expires in December. The owners, who have received permits to build a $1.2-billion waterfront village on the site, put the land on the market for $152 million, but two offers on the property fell through.
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