I’d like to share some insight regarding the flooding and buyout questions and comments. Originally I was interested in purchasing the Wold Drug Store on Main Street. I was told Mr. McGarvey at the city had other plans for it. If I wanted it, the price was $120,000 unrenovated, and I would have to hire an architect and have money in place for renovations. It was then renovated by the city, sold for approximately $70,000 with a 5 percent loan and turned into a Hispanic grocery, which later closed.

When I was looking into my present location, I knew of the flooding issues. I went to city hall and had discussions with the head people to find out if anything was planned for the area. I specifically told them I did not want to buy if things were going to cause them to want to remove it. They adamantly said “no.”

The buyout prices weren’t fair, I won’t give specifics (unless you want to know, call me). Stuttgart’s offer was less than half B&J’s offer. I have two lots on a corner and a building three times the size with a full basement. I was offered three-fourths of B&J’s offer. When I asked them why the difference, they replied, “a bar is worth more than a flower shop or travel agency.” I said they weren’t buying the business, just the property. They said that’s now how they look at it.

I hope this helps you to understand where I am and why. Mr. Stiehm, perhaps you should meet some of us before you make comments about our decisions. We just want to work and make a living.

Vicki Trimble

Austin