One saving grace from the fire is that the Minonk Foods grocery store was not affected by the fire. Some people have suggested reconstruction of the fire site should include an expansion of the Minonk Foods grocery store. The new owner, Max Patel, is an enthusiastic businessman who would like to improve his business.
Our comparison of the sale ads for Minonk Foods with the sale ads from the El Paso IGA showed very little difference in prices. There is no reason to run to El Paso for groceries when we have the same thing in Minonk at similar prices. Losing a grocery store would be a devastating blow to the community and it is up to the residents of this community to patronize all local businesses.
Ideally, reconstruction of the fire site would include a pharmacy, a hardware store, Dr., Naik's dental office, the Meyer-Jochums agency and expansion of Minonk Foods grocery. Creating a plaza type frontage with nice landscaping on the complex would greatly improve its appearance and also help draw customers.
The fire site is located in a TIF district which offers tax incentives for potential businesses and there is ample parking in downtown Minonk. It is a great opportunity for business development.
Let's hope 2012 is the year that reconstruction of the fire site will make Minonk a mercantile center for the surrounding area again.
Happy new year everyone!