Petco - where the pets go - will be closing in February, due to losing its lease. The Wildwood Crossing pet store found out last week that its lease is not being renewed and will close its doors on Feb. 22.
General Manager Shane Turnbeaugh said the landlord of the property, Kansas City-based Rubenstein Real Estate Company, refused to resign a lease with Petco. However, leasing agent for the Boulevard property said that it is not an accurate statement to say the landlord would not renew the lease, but would not comment further about the situation. Rubenstein Real Estate does have another tenant lined up for the building, but would not share at this time who will take Petco's spot.
Petco has been in Jefferson City at its current location for 11 years. Turnbeaugh said his approximately 20 employees have been told of the possible closing, but he's holding out hope that the store will simply move, and not close for good. Turnbeaugh said that Petco corporate is searching for a new location in Jefferson City, but it may take some time to make a property fit the specifications needed for the store.