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Everett Council Condemns Kroger's Fred Meyer Closure, Cites Food-Access and Job Impacts
Summary
Following testimony from workers and neighborhood residents, the Everett City Council adopted a resolution rebuking Kroger's closure of the Casino Road Fred Meyer, citing threats to food access, job losses, and the neighborhood's economic health and calling on Kroger to work with community and labor leaders.
The Everett City Council voted Sept. 17 to adopt a resolution condemning Kroger's decision to close the Evergreen Way Fred Meyer in the Casino Road neighborhood, citing impacts on hundreds of union jobs and the risk of creating a food and retail desert.
The resolution, introduced by Council member Ryan and supported by Mayor Cassie Franklin, states the city will "stand firmly with UFCW 3000" and demands Kroger work with city, community and labor leaders to find a productive way forward for the site. The document also cites Kroger's 2024 net earnings figure referenced in council remarks and public testimony.
Several employees and residents urged passage during public comment. "This news of our store closure was devastating to me and my coworkers," said Tricia Warren, who said she has worked at the Casino Road Fred Meyer for 12 years. "On behalf of me and my coworkers... I'm asking you to pass this resolution, think about the families, the seniors, and the hundreds of workers being displaced."
Residents described the store as essential for walkability and daily needs. Luis Burbano, a West Mount Holly resident, said the closure means "our food, walkability, and flowers are gone" and predicted greater pressure on small grocers and potential displacement if services are not replaced.
Council members described intensive city efforts to support the store and the neighborhood. "Kroger asked for help, and Everett stepped up in a big way," said Council member Ryan, noting investments in public safety and other resources. Several council members characterized Kroger's public explanation blaming theft as inconsistent with local statistics and city interventions.
Council debate included pragmatic notes about corporate responsibilities and local limits: one councilor said corporations legally owe duties to shareholders but nonetheless expressed disappointment. Council member Bader recorded a No vote; the remaining members and the mayor voted Yes and the resolution passed.
The council directed staff and its committees to explore short-term and longer-term responses to address storefront vacancies, support displaced workers and seek reuse strategies for the Kroger property. The resolution asks state and federal elected officials and community partners to defend food access and consider policies that protect workers and neighborhoods.
Next step: the council will pursue committee follow-up on retail vacancies and potential supports for South Everett residents while seeking Kroger engagement on the site.
