New Owner Possible for Village Square Mall

There could be a breakthrough that could lead to improvements for Village Square Mall in Effingham.

At a brief hearing in Effingham County Circuit Court Friday afternoon, City Attorney Tracy Willenborg indicated a new owner is a possibility for the mall. Willenborg said, "The possibility of a new, hopefully more responsive owner, could lead to a resolution of the matter."

The City had filed suit against Mall Owner Mike Cohen, demanding structural improvements to portions of the Mall. Cohen signed a consent decree that the corrections would be made, but Willenborg said there's been little progress. The City was ready to take further steps to bring the matter to a head, but the information on a new owner could forestall the need for such action.

Willenborg only asked for a two-week continuance regarding a hearing on the matter, indicating that a sale could be close. The hearing is now set for 1pm on October 10.