A Mr. Sub sandwich shop is slated to open in the Bold Center’s food court this September after agreements to occupy the final space of the four-spot food court began in 2020 with Lac La Biche County staff.
In order to bring in the food outlet, an additional $88,000 will be spent by the municipality to finalize drawings and construction requirements for the sandwich shop to operate.
Facilities manager for Lac La Biche County Gary Harman says the outlay of additional funds is being spent is only for improvement that would be required by any food services provider occupying that space and is not being used on tenant-specific equipment.
“The improvements that we do in the tenant space is equipment or furnishings that stay forever. It doesn't matter if another vendor comes... it’s to make basically the kitchen work, it's nothing specific to Mr. Sub itself,” said Harman. “Everything in these costs stay with the county.”
After a long negotiation period the franchise has signed an agreement with Lac La Biche County to operate in the Bold Center for three years with the option to sign for another two after that.
Lac La Biche County Mayor Omer Mograhbi said the decision to reach out to local contractors for estimates in order to complete crucial infrastructure is necessary to bring in business. This perspective was echoed by municipal councillors who unanimously approved the $88,000 price tag for facility improvements.
“It’s great to hear that we've got a full slate and someone's actually moving in even during these very uncertain times for any food services,” said councillor Lorin Tkachuk.
The new outlet at the Bold Center downstairs food court will join the locally-owned Rustic Bean Coffee Corner & Local Gifts and Tara’s Pizza, as well as the franchise Booster Juice location.
There was no specific date given for the opening of the latest food court addition.
