Couple to build two stores at Marion Business Park
Local business owners will build a liquor store and convenience store in Marion Business Park.
David and Laura Yates, owners of Mid America Marble and The Hair Company, negotiated with Marion City Council Monday to purchase a lot in the business park for $4,000.
Originally the Yates had requested that the council sell them a lot located in the middle of the front row of the subdivision which could have restricted future development of larger businesses that require numerous lots. The Yates had requested the specific lot because they wanted high visibility from U.S.-56.
Councilman Stacey Collett commented that visibility would change if development occurred around any of the lots.
Collett made a motion to offer the Yates a free lot west of Trace of Copper or a lot for half price two lots west of Trace of Copper. Mayor Martin Tice seconded the motion. David Yates responded he would take the lot that was being offered for half price or $4,000. The motion passed 5-0.
Originally the couple had contemplated establishing three separate businesses at the park — a liquor store, a convenience store, and a beauty salon. Currently the beauty salon is located in the downtown district. Regulations and space issues nixed the plan for three separate businesses and the couple decided to move forward with the other two.
Laura Yates presented a business plan and floor plan of the development.
David Yates said they plan to hire four people and will be open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Two tanning beds will be located in the convenience store and lottery tickets will be sold.
During the course of discussion, city administrator David Mayfield told the council that Seacat Hardware had asked the city to reserve two lots, back to back, east of the current business, for future development. He added there was interest in four lots, two in the front row and two in the second row. A proposal would be presented in a few months.
City attorney Dan Baldwin said incentives could be discussed in executive session but planning and development had to be discussed in open session. He added that there has been an understanding to offer lots individually or in groups with the intent of development from the outside in of the subdivision, allowing sufficient space for a larger development such as a motel or restaurant.
The Yates plan to begin construction as soon as documents can be drawn with completion within a few months.
