Ralphs Replacement 'Could Take Months'

With the , the city is preparing to court new retailers to the 40,000 square foot space.

But in this economy, it may not be easy, City Manager Jim DeStefano told the city council Tuesday night.

"This will take time," DeStefano said, "and could take many months before an announcement is ready."

DeStefano said the city has had a number of "good conversations" with the property owners at the center and that they will work to target a national retailer for the space, though he said any stores that would occupy a space that large are not the chains expanding.

"This is much bigger than the businesses that are currently expanding, like Fresh and Easy," DeStefano said.

Resident Allen Wilson addressed the council Tuesday with concern over the store closure, saying it would be a "big blow" to the center where Ralph's has been the anchor and original tenant for over 20 years.

"I just hope we can find a reputable retailer to fill the void," Wilson said.

While DeStefano said the city will work to get a "high-quality tenant," he noted that the property owner will be facing a large loss of rent revenue in August and will likely be eager to find another business to lease the space.