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Mount Vernon council approves leases for two small businesses at 49 Public Square
Summary
Council adopted Resolution 2026-22 to lease the long-vacant 49 Public Square to Amy's Nail Nook LLC and Sarah's Loft LLC. The one-year, renewable leases require tenants to pay utilities and maintain systems and will occupy a single-door space as two business entities sharing the footprint.
Mount Vernon City Council on Feb. 23 adopted Resolution 2026-22 to lease the vacant storefront at 49 Public Square to two local small businesses, Amy's Nail Nook LLC and Sarah's Loft LLC, under one-year renewable leases. The measure passed after council suspended the usual three-reading rule.
The administration told council the property had been vacant since the previous tenant closed and that two local entrepreneurs completed background and credit checks and met the legislation deadline. "Our goal is to not have it be vacant," a city presenter said during the discussion. According to staff, the tenants will be responsible for gas, electric, water, sewer, stormwater, taxes and routine maintenance of building systems; the city will cover heating and electricity until operations begin.
Council members discussed the space layout with staff; presenters said the unit has a single exterior door and the two businesses will operate as separate business entities sharing interior space. Council plans to monitor any necessary minor modifications; staff said at least one interested party in a different nearby storefront will obtain plumber quotes for ventilation and plumbing modifications and could return to council later.
The resolution was moved and seconded and passed on a roll-call vote with all present voting in favor. Councilmembers recorded voting yes included Ruckman, Hager, Miller, Severns, Keener and Mahan. The administration said tenants are "very excited" and that the lease will allow immediate occupancy once any required minor work is completed.
The lease action follows the council's emphasis on activating vacant downtown retail spaces. There was no public comment objecting to the lease during the legislative portion of the meeting. The resolution takes effect as adopted and staff will proceed to finalize leasing details and schedule any needed inspections or minor repairs.
