A proposal for an assisted and senior living center was approved for further study Tuesday night and is one step closer to the drafting of a lease and operating agreement. City commissioners did not approve the project, which was only slated for a presentation Tuesday by representatives of Wendover Development group. But they did agree to have staff members work with the developers on the project's taxable status and other issues.

"We are more than willing to pay all the ad valorem taxes," said Jeff Sharkey, who represented the Wendover group.

Senior apartments available to qualifying people 55 years and older would rent for $308 to $950, with market rate apartments going for $1,100 to $1,400. Assisted-living costs would vary based on services and payment options by residents.

City Attorney Shawn Smith said the plan meets the requirements of a referendum approved by voters allowing the facility on the city's waterfront land.

Commissioner Clayton Lopez said he is having trouble reconciling some of the numbers used by the developers.

"I need to have a better understanding of this," Lopez said.

"There are some issues that have to be addressed. We've got a lot of homework to do," agreed City Manager Bob Vitas, who promised that staff would get to work and present a report to commissioners in November.

- John DeSantis