By JIM BUTLER

MGM Development Group, stymied by Alexandria on a project a couple of months ago (or sandbagged, depending on the point of view), is moving to another housing effort.

The City Council, responding to administration concerns about long-term commitment, on a tie vote rejected city backing for a proposed affordable housing apartments project on south MacArthur Drive.

Now the developer is proposing a seniors affordable housing investment in Pineville, essentially bounded by Shell Road and Azalea Road.

The name Central Point derives from the former Central Louisiana State Hospital grounds.

MGM envisions spending up to $45 million to rehabilitate existing buildings and for new construction of 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom units with clubhouse and supporting services.

The financing package includes low income tax credits, federal and state historic tax credits, Community Block Development Grant and other sources, including Louisiana Housing Commission and Louisiana Bond Commission.

Jeff Glover, who was unable to persuade an Alexandria council majority in December, is the contact person.

His firm last year opened a 48-unit development on England Drive.