Businesses leaving block that could be site of new downtown fire station

Businesses are bailing out of a downtown block that has been discussed as the possible site of a new downtown fire station because leases aren't being renewed.

Home Appliance and Jim's Tune-Up have moved not only out of the block but out of the downtown area due partly to the expiring leases.

Home Appliance moved this week to 550 Oakland Road NE, a building that once housed Hamilton Seed. The family-owned appliance business had long been located at 706 2nd Ave. SE, but its lease was set to expire at the end of the month and would not be renewed, a spokeswoman said.

Jim's Tune Up Service moved over Memorial day weekend to an existing building at 1643 Edgewood Road SW. The family-owned automotive service business had been located at 121 8th St. SE for 28 years.

The relocation became necessary because a sprinkler system in a different part of the building was damaged by freezing during the winter and the landlord did not want to replace the system, according to Jeff Hamblin of the family-owned business.

Hamblin said the automotive repair shop is offering free shuttle service for downtown customers. He said business has been good at the new location.

D & L Auto Service, 702 2nd Ave. SE, is closing due to the retirement of owner Don Orris. He had operated an auto service business at the location since 1998.

Stained Glass Gallery is relocating in July to 600 2nd Ave. SE, according to a sign on the former NAPA Auto Parts building. It had been located at 702 2nd Ave. SE.