SAN DIEGO–San Diego City Councilmember Marti Emerald, the only member of the Jewish community on the City Council, said Wednesday, Jan. 15., that there is “bad news for consumers in the San Diego community of City Heights.” The neighborhoods largest grocery store, Albertsons at University and Fairmount Avenue, is closing its doors February 20th. Emerald says this is a serious blow to consumers who have come to rely on the foods and pharmacy services provided at the City Heights store.
A press release issued by her office continued:
“This planned closure of a major national retailer is unfortunately a common story in older, low income neighborhoods. Albertsons says this store is not meeting the company’s financial goals. But the store and its on-site pharmacy are hugely important to the community.
“Consumers in lower income neighborhoods like City Heights already have limited options for fresh foods and health services. And most City Heights residents don’t have cars to drive to large competitively priced grocery stores in other neighborhoods. This will pull the rug from under consumers who already struggle to get healthy foods and medicine.
The City Heights Albertsons is one of eleven stores in Southern California targeted for closure. A company spokesperson says, “Albertsons has a responsibility to do what is best for the long-term growth and success of the company as a whole.” A liquidation sale begins next week. Doors close permanently February 20th, according to the company spokesperson.
No word, yet, for customers of the Sav-On pharmacy inside the store. Albertsons says, “Signs will be posted on the store windows providing details.”
Meantime, Kimco, the property manager for the Albertsons site, says it is actively marketing this retail space and is in discussions with several potential tenants, including a grocery operator. However, there is no signed replacement lease, yet.
Emerald said her office will work with consumers concerned about their options, and will keep the community posted on new developments.
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Preceding based on information provided by Councilwoman Marti Emerald’s office