The two parties were still in discussions in early December 2015, court records say. “However, on Dec. 10, 2015, and without explanation, BHC communicated that it would not proceed with the project after all.”

Nine months later, in September, the coalition announced publicly, while still under the confidentiality agreement, that it had bought the property for $5.9 million and planned to invest a minimum of $30 million and redevelop the entire block into a mixed-income apartment complex.

Dominion Diversified’s suit, filed in December, alleges breach of contract, unjust enrichment and violations of the Trade Secrets Act.

Greta Harris, president and CEO of the Better Housing Coalition, declined last week to respond to the lawsuit’s allegations, saying the organization will defend itself in court.

The special use permit that would allow the redevelopment to proceed was approved by the city’s Planning Commission last week and was set to be heard as part of the council’s consent agenda Monday, suggesting that it was not expected to be controversial or generate discussion.

It was removed from the agenda with no public discussion.