Casino Road Fred Meyer to close, but statement there was rising theft is a tale

Kroger will close its Fred Meyer store on Casino Road in Everett by mid-October, raising alarm over potential food access issues for the local community. Mayor Cassie Franklin is working to assist residents through resource mapping and public transportation options. This Fred Meyer is the only major grocery store within walking distance for the neighborhood, with the nearest alternative, a Safeway, located nearly a mile away. Local community leader Alvaro Guillen highlighted the growing challenges faced by families in the area, particularly for immigrant communities. Kroger attributed the closure to theft and regulatory challenges, although police data shows a significant reduction in theft incidents at the store.

Community officials had collaborated closely with Kroger to address safety concerns, which adds to the disappointment over the closure. Kroger plans to offer positions to the 360 employees impacted by the store's closure. The broader implications of this closure could exacerbate existing issues like displacement and rising living costs in the area.