Thursday, November 8, 2018

Doesn't look like Target will reconsider #6thWardChicago

Posted to the Concerned Citizens of Chatham FB page (which is run by Worlee Glover who's running for 6th ward alderman) an article about Target choosing to double down on their decision to close two of their south side stores.


City officials are scrambling to get Target to reconsider its decision to close two South Side stores early next year, offering the retailer millions of dollars in incentives to keep the stores open.

But Target, which last week announced plans to close stores in the Morgan Park and Chatham neighborhoods, said it is standing by its “difficult decision” — one that has been met with criticism from shoppers and local officials alike.

The city is still trying to get Target to change its mind, though officials recognize it’s a long shot, said Adam Collins, a spokesman for Mayor Rahm Emanuel.

Emanuel has spoken with Target’s CEO at least five times since the company notified the city of its plans the day before the closures were announced publicly, and he has offered millions of dollars in tax increment financing assistance, said Collins, who declined to comment on details of the city’s offer.

On Wednesday, Emanuel signed an executive order that would keep developers seeking TIF money for retail projects from getting incentives if one of their large tenants is planning to close stores in another part of the city.

The move was in response to Target’s announcement, Collins said. The City Council recently approved $13 million in assistance for a shopping center in Albany Park that the city said is expected to include a Target. The Minneapolis-based retailer has not publicly announced plans for a store at that location.

Emanuel said the executive order is meant to ensure “if you’re going to be a Chicagoland store you’re in all parts of Chicago.”
Mayor Emanuel may be unpopular for a variety of reasons, but I am with him on this. If you're going to be in Chicago you have to be in all parts of the city. It's one reason why Whole Foods Market is in Englewood today!

On the other hand, what would it take for Target to change their minds on closing either or both stores on the south side? It seems like they've made up their mind and no mood to change it!

RELATED: Target to exit far south side neighborhoods #6WardChicago

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