By Kathy McCarty
Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE — Just weeks after announcing the proposed closing of the Sears store at the Aroostook Centre Mall, officials with Sears Holdings have reversed their decision and now plan to keep the anchor store open.
“The Sears store and Auto Centre at the Aroostook Centre Mall in Presque Isle will now remain open to serve our members and customers,” said Howard Riefs, director of corporate communications.
According to Riefs, the change in plans came after company and mall officials negotiated a new lease.
“Sears and the mall property owner worked together and reached an agreement on the lease, which will enable Sears to continue operating the store. As a result, we’re happy to report Sears associates employed at the store will not be impacted,” said Riefs.
“Sears looks forward to continuing to serve the northern Maine community,” said Riefs.
The initial decision, according to Riefs, would have affected 58 associates. Store Manager Donella Leavitt, however, said following the announcement earlier this month the figure was closer to 80 people who would have lost their jobs, since the closure would have affected the Auto Center staff, cleaning personnel and others.
Store management learned of the change in plans late last week.
“Donella found out last night (Wednesday, July 17). She told us first thing this morning,” said Rae LaPointe, softlines lead at the Presque Isle store.
LaPointe said this an unprecedented move on the part of Sears officials.
“We were told by the district manager that plans have never gone this far and been renegotiated,” she said.
The news was met with enthusiasm, as employees learned they wouldn’t be losing their jobs.
“There was quite a celebration Wednesday morning. I’ve been with the business 26 years. I wouldn’t have known where to begin looking for work. I’ve worked here half my life,” said LaPointe.
A planned gathering at Mantle Lake in August, designed as more of a farewell party for employees — both past and present — is still on, according to LaPointe, just with a new twist.
“We’re still having a party for everyone who worked for Sears in August, the only difference is this will be a celebration of the store staying open,” said LaPointe. “We definitely have something to celebrate.”
