Big news for Jasper: a Bealls Retail store—and possibly a Shoe Dept—is slated to open in Fall 2026. The presentation team, which included Bealls’ East Texas real estate agent and her broker, expressed excitement that the $1 million-plus project, in development since 2020, is finally moving forward—thanks in part to JEDCO’s proposed $160,000 contribution.

The team shared that Bealls Retail currently generates about $3 million annually but expects that number to rise to $4 million in Jasper due to customer traffic from surrounding small towns. They emphasized that Bealls Retail would serve as an anchor store, potentially attracting additional businesses to the area.

During the meeting, Mrs. Norworthy asked what would happen if JEDCO declined the $160,000. The broker responded that the project would not proceed, as the funding bridges the gap between Bealls’ budget and the landlord’s contribution.

Mr. Grant inquired about job creation and Bealls’ long-term commitment. The initial lease is for 10 years, with five 5-year renewal options, totaling 35 years. Mr. Grant clarified that JEDCO’s financial commitment would not extend for that duration.

The project would create 3 jobs during construction and 15 permanent positions. While pay details were vague, the store manager would be salaried, and starting wages would begin at $15 per hour, with room to grow.

Then came a twist: the interim executive director introduced himself and stated that JEDCO is a Type A economic development board, which is primarily designed for industrial projects. He explained that to proceed, JEDCO would need to hold a public hearing and recommended applying for Type B status as well. This would allow greater flexibility in funding and potentially increase the local sales tax from half a cent to a full cent.

Ms. Colvin pushed back, saying, “Type A can vote on this. I don’t understand why we need public hearings—those are usually for Type B. Type A can do building improvements.” Mr. McClurg clarified that the population must be under 7,500 for certain provisions to apply. After confirming Jasper’s population meets that threshold, the interim director concluded that JEDCO could vote and forward the matter to City Council for approval.

The motion was called, and with a majority vote, it passed.

Before moving on to the interim attorney appointment, several agenda items were tabled. Mr. Grant then said that the interim attorney had already reviewed the contract and the recent closure of The Jewel Bistro, which shut down after only a few months into its 36-month contract with JEDCO. A letter from the business stated that it was a small LLC, with all assets tied up in the restaurant, and would be dissolved upon closure. Once again, JEDCO is left holding the bag for a failed venture.

The board then voted to appoint Michael Getz as interim attorney, with the understanding that a formal RFP process will be initiated to fill the position permanently. The motion passed.

Mr. Grant closed the meeting by thanking the board for their time and commitment on a Friday night. Meeting adjourned.