Controversy Over Grocery Store Development In NE OKC

One city leader believes developers are not keeping their promise to build an Uptown grocery store at NE 23^rd and MLK.

“I really feel like we had a developer that made promises to the community and did not keep not one promise,” said OKC City Councilman John Pettis.

The developers, Hank and Susan Binkowski, said original plans have changed due to challenges with the property.

However, the couple still plans to build a 50,000 sq. foot new grocery store building at the same location, and use city tax incentives to help subsidize some of the cost.

“We are building a new grocery store building. It is to be determined what it is,” said Hank Binkowski, who owns Buy for Less store, Smart Saver stores, and Uptowns with his wife Susan.

The city had said the original plan would qualify for $5 million in Tax Increment Finance Funds and an additional $3.5 million in loans from the city.

The Binkowskis said they are still committed to the area, however, the city is trying to clarify how the couple will move forward with the project. OKC is considering buying the property from the Binkowskis or even going into a partnership. Its hoping to hear back from the grocery store owners by Friday.

Meanwhile, the Binkowskis did just change the brand of the Buy for Less that was at NE 23rd and MLK. It’s now a Smart Saver grocery store.

Councilman Pettis said if the new grocery store planned for the area is also a Smart Saver, he won’t support the plan.

“It’s my position that we do not fund a discounted grocery store in NE OKC,” said Pettis.