HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council will take action on a market study contract during Tuesday’s meeting. The study would explore market needs for a new hotel and convention center.

A task force with city and Chamber representation was recently assembled to identify options for the community when it comes to a new or renovated convention center or hotel project.

The task force initially sent out a request for proposals to various hotel development groups. The task force received four letters of interest. Three development groups, one of which was the current owner of the Atrium, were then interviewed.

The task force decided to move into the discussion stages with Leisure Development Group out of Leawood, Kansas. After an initial meeting with Leisure, the development group requested exclusive negotiation between the two parties.

During a meeting last week to discuss the Leisure agreement and market study, a consensus was reached to hold off on negotiations until the market study is completed.

If approved, the study will be done by Hospitality Real Estate Counselors of Memphis, Tennessee, at a cost of $14,500.