Plans to transform the former LaCosta Lounge property into an upscale boutique hotel are taking another turn, as Sea Isle City officials consider a new redevelopment strategy that could help resolve affordable housing issues that have stalled construction at one of the resort's most visible downtown locations. SouthJerseyNewsBeat.com reports City Council voted Tuesday, October 27, to retain the Collingswood law firm Maley Givens to advise the municipality on the possibility of declaring the property an area in need of redevelopment. The site has remained vacant since the demolition of the former LaCosta Lounge and Ludlam buildings in October 2024.