UPDATE: Walmart is reportedly finalizing a deal to acquire the former Kmart property located at 4325 Broadway Street, Eureka. This development comes after the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors’ plans to purchase the property were abruptly halted, as new reports confirm Walmart’s interest.
According to emails obtained through a Public Records Act request, negotiations reached a critical point late last week. John McNellis, a partner at McNellis Partners—owners of the property—communicated to city officials that “we came to terms with Walmart late yesterday afternoon,” indicating a significant step forward. However, McNellis cautioned that “it will be a long way from that handshake to a closing,” signaling that the deal is still in its early stages.
The property, previously home to a cannabis facility operated by Papa & Barkley, spans 8 acres and features a 54,958 square foot retail building constructed in 1988. Its market value was estimated at $5,950,000 when Humboldt County was engaged in negotiations to acquire it for a “One Stop Permitting Center” aimed at streamlining local planning processes.
This potential acquisition has immediate implications for the community. The Humboldt County Board had previously approved a significant budget request to move forward with the purchase, but plans were scrapped following news of Walmart’s pending agreement. The county’s request to discuss the acquisition was removed from the agenda of a recent Eureka Planning Commission meeting at the behest of the property owner, suggesting that Walmart’s plans are now the priority.
While details remain sparse, preliminary zoning discussions hint at the possibility of a grocery store opening at the site, though Walmart has yet to confirm such plans. Currently, Walmart operates an anchor store on the northwest side of the Bayshore Mall in the area.
Walmart spokesperson Charles Crowson stated, “We’re always looking for opportunities to better serve our customers and communities. We have no additional information to share at this time,” emphasizing the company’s commitment to community engagement while keeping specific plans under wraps.
The urgency surrounding this acquisition reflects a broader trend of retail evolution in Eureka and surrounding areas. As residents await further announcements, local stakeholders are keenly watching the situation unfold.
The next steps will be crucial as both Walmart and McNellis Partners navigate the complexities of finalizing this deal. For local residents and businesses, the potential establishment of a Walmart grocery store could significantly alter the commercial landscape of Eureka.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
