“I couldn’t honestly say that this project had no adverse impact on the park, which is a legal requirement,” Hilbert said.

White described the process as tortuous and said it had taken “way too long.”

“I’m just relieved that it’s over,” he said.

White said he may end up building apartments on the site, but not soon.

He said he has asked 7th District Councilwoman Cynthia I. Newbille, who represents the area, to withdraw the project’s two ordinances from the council agenda for Monday’s meeting.

The strong feelings about the proposed tower, which many felt would stick out from its surroundings and set a precedent for tall development near the riverfront, were on full display at a town hall meeting in Church Hill last week, where Newbille was grilled for not taking a strong enough stand against the development.

Newbille stressed that she had heard the concerns and would not vote for the project without changes.

White said Newbille performed “admirably” throughout the process.