MIDLAND, MI-A think-tank commentator wants politicians to examine real data on the rate of development in Michigan, not assume a sky-is-falling approach. "The state is only 10% developed," Samuel Staley notes.

DENVER-In an about-face prompted by the economic slowdown, Mayor Wellington Webb now backs the $105-million Westin Hotel at Denver International Airport. The city will build and own the hotel.

NEW YORK CITY-The Aussie-themed meatery will move into an 8,000-sf space in East Midtown. Opening is scheduled for spring 2002.

MINNEAPOLIS-Overall office vacancy climbs to 12.7%, says a United Properties report. Rises continue in all submarkets, more so in Downtown and the Southwest suburbs, less so in the Northeast, Northwest and West submarkets.