Signage approved for Kmart close-out sale

The Sturgis Township Planning Commission on Monday approved a going-out-of-business signage permit for the fall closing of the local Kmart store.

The company requested permission for a temporary 4-by-40-foot banner that will advertise the closing sale on the front of the South Centerville Road store.

Meanwhile, rumors are churning over prospective businesses that could take over the space. But Mike Bobalik, Sturgis Township clerk, said the township has received no official word on who might reinhabit the building, or when.

Bobalik said the township and the city of Sturgis have agreed to coordinate economic development efforts to attract a new business to the large commercial building.

The site is owned by a New Orleans investment group and has been leased by Sears, the flagship owner of Kmart.

According to Bobalik, Sears officials said the local Kmart liquidation will begin Aug. 30 and conclude by Nov. 15. The store is expected to close Nov. 30.

In other business Monday, planning commissioners approved sign permits for two new businesses that are moving into existing sites. John Nettleman is opening Squirt Irrigation at 27380 Fawn River Road and Chuck’s Auto Sales will add a sales location at 71320 M-66, Sturgis.

Gary Bland, township zoning administrator, also said three buildings at 6880 Stuby Road are being torn down on the 10-acre lot and a home is planned for construction there in the next several years.