News editor
A sign at the former Seacat Hardware building, 1228 Commercial Dr., says a contract is pending for sale of the building, and it was announced Tuesday at Marion Economic Development Inc.’s meeting that the prospective buyer plans to open a farm/hardware store.
The sale isn’t final, though. The main stumbling block remaining is liquidation of the previous store’s inventory. The contract is dated for Oct. 23, economic development director Roger Holter said.
Todd Heitschmidt said the prospective buyer, who wasn’t named because the deal isn’t done, owns other stores that are comparable to Orscheln Farm & Home or Bluestem Farm and Ranch.
Cottonwood Valley Bank, formerly known as Pilsen State Bank, currently owns the property.
Goal setting discussed
Holter asked board members what MEDI’s goals should be over the next few months.
Heitschmidt said he thought it was important to encourage qualified candidates to run for three positions on the city council scheduled to be up for election. Other member encouraged engaging with young voters to get interested in city government. Margo Yates said the group should support updating the city’s zoning codes.
A subcommittee of the group is scheduled to meet at noon today at the city building to discuss long-term goals and plans. Heitschmidt, Holter, Yates, and Adam Stewart volunteered to serve on the subcommittee.