Riverbank resort proposed in Libby

By BRENT SHRUM

Special to the Inter Lake

LIBBY - A developer is proposing to build a five-story hotel and restaurant complex on the bank of the Kootenai River just across the bridge from Libby.

Matt Hollingsworth told the Libby City Council he's buying the 13-acre property where he plans to build the hotel and will close the deal Oct. 13. He said he came to the council for "a meet and greet" and to see if it "might be within the realm of possibility" to build a health and wellness center - including a swimming pool and ice rink - on city land adjacent to the planned hotel.

Hollingsworth estimated the construction cost for the hotel at $5 million to $10 million, with the health and wellness center "around the same amount." He said he would finance the construction himself with money made through hurricane repair contracts.

He said he isn't seeking any financial assistance from the city.

Mayor Tony Berget said the council has to be careful when dealing with city property but that the city has shown an interest in developing its property across the river. He indicated the council might be interested in Hollingsworth's proposal.

Hollingsworth pointed out that extension of city sewer and water service - along with annexation into the city - would be necessary for the project to move ahead. Berget said it would be possible to extend service across the river using hangers on the underside of the bridge.

"I can tell you that's definitely a possibility, because we've put things in motion so that can happen," he said.

Hollingsworth said he grew up in Libby and works as a contractor in other states.

He said he owns several properties in Libby, including the former Eagles hall on Mineral Avenue and properties on Main Avenue and behind Dairy Queen.