The owner of the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida Barbara Poma has announced that she is no longer interested in selling the premises. In a statement issued by Poma, she explained that after taking the city’s proposal into consideration, she has opted not to sell.
In June of 2016, the hot spot was attacked by Omar Mateen, who murdered 49 innocent souls and left more than 50 people injured before being killed in a shootout with Florida police.
Orlando officials had offered Poma $2.25 million for the club, which they planned to transform into a memorial where families of the victims could gather to remember their loved ones. It had looked like the deal was going through, but this week, Poma surprised everyone by saying that her family has decided to keep the premises.
In an interview with local media, the club owner said it had nothing with the money; she stated that she simply had a change of heart. Poma revealed:
“I can’t just walk away from the nightclub because it means so very much to my family and our community.”
She added:
“I feel a personal obligation to ensure that a permanent space at Pulse be created so that all generations to come will remember those affected by, and taken on, June 12th.”
She did not say what her family planned to do with club but did explain that they will keep it open and they will “create a space for everyone, a sanctuary of hope and a welcoming area to remember all those affected by the tragedy. I plan to work with communities impacted by this tragedy, the families of the victims and any private or public sector individuals or organizations who wish to assist.”
Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer, who was involved in the negotiations, said he is disappointed that Poma no longer wants to sell but he respects her decision.
