Stevens County Commissioners Discuss Gene's Heartland Foods' New Grocery Store and Potential Job Opportunities

On January 29, 2024, the Stevens County Commissioners Board held a meeting to discuss Gene's Heartland Foods' new grocery store plans. All board members, including Pat Hall, Tron Stegman, Joe D Thompson, County Attorney Paul Kitzke, Deputy County Clerk Amy Rich, and representatives from Gene's Heartland Foods, attended the meeting. Several local residents were also present.

Tron Stegman initiated the meeting by asking for an update on the grocery store plans from Gene's Heartland Foods. James Clasen, a company representative, stated that the initial plans were finalized in October 2023, with an opening date set for November 2023. However, due to banking issues and a system hack, the opening was postponed.

Clasen informed that the bank issues have been resolved and they anticipate a clear title in two weeks. Once the title is clear, they aim to stock the store by February end. The store's warehouse is in Amarillo, and stocking it would take about one to two weeks.

The meeting also covered the store's model and potential employment. Clasen confirmed a traditional supermarket model, including a deli and catering services. Justin Renz, the future Hugoton store manager, said they had interviewed 20 to 30 people in November and the store could employ 35 to 45 people.

The meeting ended with the commissioners thanking Gene's Heartland Foods representatives and offering future assistance. The new city mayor, Matthew Rome, was introduced as the contact for city-related issues. The meeting was then adjourned.

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