To the Editor:

We have been hearing a lot of feedback regarding the new Stewart’s Shop proposal in Altamont. We have been a proud part of the Altamont community for 40 years and believe that the character of the village can be enhanced by an appropriately placed building that compliments other architectural features of surrounding buildings while developing a pedestrian-friendly streetscape inclusive of new greenspace.

The end result will be a more attractive Stewart’s Shop with an expanded layout for increased offerings to the residents of Altamont. The community will gain a beautiful new shop and so much more.

The size of the shop will increase from 2,695 square feet to 3,675 square feet with additional food-to-go options and more convenient product offerings. The expanded layout will include additional seating for community members to meet for a cup of coffee or families to enjoy a meal or ice cream together as the store has become a community meeting place in its lifetime.

Diesel will be added (while number of pumps maintained) for customer convenience, which has been a very positive addition in our other shop locations.

The original plan for redevelopment came from a 2015 submission for a building addition and the feedback that a new store may be less obtrusive and a better fit for the community. Unfortunately, the village board had a member recuse herself and the board voted to a 2-to-2, tie which stalled the plans.

Upgrading the shop with added essentials and food offerings while preserving the character of the village would be a “win-win” for the residents of Altamont and Stewart’s alike.

Chuck Marshall

Stewart’s Shops