A local Jefferson business will be making a move to a new location to provide even more selection and exposure for the community.

Earlier this year Don’s ACE Hardware announced their purchase of the former Shopko Hometown building at 1004 North Elm Street. Last week, the Jefferson City Council helped with the renovation process by approving an economic development agreement. City Administrator Mike Palmer says the agreement was for $75,000 as a forgivable loan over a ten-year period.

“They’re going to be increasing their square-footage, I believe from 6,000-8,000 up to 20,000-square-feet in the new building. So there’s going to be a lot more product in there. We’re really excited about that and the whole layout. And the use of a building that at one time was looking kind of like a dark cloud on the horizon, now we’ve found that silver lining.”

Don’s ACE Hardware Owner Andy Harland told the Council that he will be able to offer 30,000 items in the new building, whereas he is currently is offering 20,000 items. He will also have the capability to offer other items such as cooking and baking items, small appliances and he plans to expand to include a garden center.

Harland anticipates closing on the new building on January 2nd and being opened by May 1st. He pointed out that he plans to stay open in his current location during the transition up until the day he opens at the new location.