HSC Senior Center purchases Shopko building

The Hot Springs County Senior Center director Trenda Moore reported they purchased the Shopko Building in an online auction held Thursday, April 14. Moore said, "It will be the center's new home."

The purchase still has yet to close, however, it should in about 30 days.

Moore added that they have high expectations with the purchase as they are nearing their 50th anniversary. They have a three to five-year plan before things come full circle. This plan was requested for one of their grants.

Moore explained that due to their location being surrounded by the school district and the railroad, they were not in a position to expand or grow. Moore added that their numbers have been up for the seniors they have been serving. Moore said in reference to the Shopko building it was the only viable structure and land to use. They couldn't afford to build from scratch. 

Moore said they called to see if it was for sale, and it was. They wanted to do a private treaty, but that wasn't possible. It had to go to auction. The Senior Center had 60 days to prepare for that. A local bank helped them bridge the gap in the purchase. Moore said that they know of two other competitors who participated in the auction. The amount paid for the building was not disclosed.

Regarding their plans for interior work, Moore said they have "tons" to do starting with the kitchen. Moore and her colleague Gary Holbert explained that they will have some revenue-generating plans in mind, such as leasing extra space to other entities, such as a business. Moore added that now they have to write a series of grants after they purchased the building to address the work in its various stages.