The writing is on the wall. After a successful petition campaign, an invitation for a sit down among all parties and some major media attention – the citizens of Oakes, ND have arrived at a regrettable conclusion. The Shopko store in their town will close.
HEAR REBECCA’S FIRST INTERVIEW
In December 2018, Amy Iler and JJ Gordon reached out to the Oakes Chamber of Commerce to talk about a petition they had started to get the attention of Shopko corporate in hopes that they would reconsider closing the location that serves the citizens of their region.
Talks with Shopko were disappointing, they requested an unreasonable rent reduction, and without many other options – it became time to start looking forward. What other business(es) might occupy the building at the north end of town?
Rebecca sounds hopeful and thinks that this may be a good learning opportunity to other small towns that are in danger of being labeled as “dwindling population” or “unable to sustain profitable business.” The citizens of Oakes mourn the loss of a store that employed residents and supported local charity groups, but the future is bright as they entertain new businesses that could come to town or the possible expansion of current businesses.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
KFGO News –
Chamberlain, SD Shopko Will Remain Open
KFGO Podcast –
Fargo, North Dakota Meets Fargo, Texas
KFGO Podcast –
Hillsboro, ND Looks to Lead the Region with Autonomous Bus
KFGO Podcast –
Age Old ND Capital Building Myth Debunked!
(Amy Iler & JJ Gordon are talk-show hosts at 790 AM KFGO in Fargo-Moorhead. “It Takes 2 with Amy & JJ” can be heard weekdays 11am-2pm. Follow Amy on Twitter @AmyKFGO. Follow JJ on Twitter @JJGodon701.)
