The Burien City Council's dream of having a local hotel soon could become a reality.

Council members heard on Sept. 24 a presentation from the Alliance Property Group, a developer that hopes to gain the exclusive rights to the construction of a new hotel in Burien.

"There are a lot of things that this area has to offer that other areas don't and there isn't a single hotel," said Harley Searcy, CEO of Alliance Property Group. "We are very excited about this opportunity."

Alliance is responsible for numerous hotel developments in the western United States.

The Burien project likely would be a mid-level hotel such as Courtyard by Marriott, he said.

But many hotels of this type have a repetitive design that doesn't sit well with Councilmember Sally Nelson.

"We're not interested in a "cookie cutter" design," Nelson said. "We want some distinction."

The hotel would be built on the corner of Southwest 150th Street and Second Avenue South, and could extend up to 12 stories-providing a panoramic view of Mt Rainier.

Two years ago, this location was targeted for a hotel by another developer. However, delays on other projects forced that group to back out-and Burien still without plans for a hotel.

Searcy expressed interest in using an apprenticeship program during the construction of the hotel. Burien lawmakers strongly support apprenticeship programs with any large development in the city.

He also voiced support for local hiring, saying it makes for better development and gives local people a chance to work.

"These developers are doing some really good stuff in other states so we are really excited about it," said City Manger Mike Martin.

Next week, Martin will draw up a proposal for the council to sign that will give exclusive rights for a hotel at the site to the Alliance Property Group.

"We really want to see this project go forward," Councilman Gordon Shaw said.

"The two gentlemen for the group seem to come across as being very honest and genuine people and I think we would be fools if we didn't make a deal with them."

The council also was scheduled to receive an update on the proposed 2008 city budget but that was delayed until the Oct. 15 meeting.