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Longtime Main Street shop to close; owners plan Airbnb conversion pending zoning
Summary
Owners Corey and Margaret Hills told the council they will close their Main Street business at month’s end after product bans reduced sales and said they hope to convert their building to an Airbnb; they will discuss the project with planning and zoning this week.
Corey and Margaret Hills, who operate a seven‑year retail business on Main Street, told the City Council on Monday they will close the retail operation at the end of the month after the state banned products that had been their top seller.
They said they own the building and are exploring converting it to an Airbnb. “Our thoughts are we'd like to turn our building into an Airbnb,” Margaret Hills told the council. They plan to add a shower and some interior work, and discussed using the small shed behind the building to achieve a bathroom area. The couple said they would prefer to hire a local cleaner and manage the property in a way that is less demanding than retail.
Council members encouraged Hillses to work with Planning and Zoning; staff noted the property is in a commercial zone and reminded the owners to check occupancy‑tax requirements. The council said a local short‑term rental could bring visitors and revenue to Eureka, and urged the owners to ensure any remodels meet building and health codes.
Why it matters: The closure reduces downtown retail inventory but the conversion could expand short‑term lodging capacity on Main Street. Councilors said they want projects on Main Street to set a good example for the community.
What’s next: The Hillses said they are scheduled to meet with the planning commission this Wednesday to discuss zoning and code requirements.
