The economic plight of Alberta’s major centres is having a trickledown effect on businesses in small communities.
While layoffs and business closures have become commonplace in Calgary and other cities, neighbouring hamlets and towns are beginning to be impacted by the downturn.
The Water Valley General Store in the hamlet of Water Valley, located roughly 90 kilometres northwest of Calgary, could close permanently after more than eight decades of operation.
According to the store’s owners, Carol and Morley Shumski, a rain-filled summer, fewer campers and local residents spending less has but the business in a bind.
Last week, the Shumskis put their store up for sale. If a buyer is not found by October 15, 2016 the store will likely shutter for good.
“If you own the store in a tiny town like this, you’re an important community member and can impact people’s daily lives,” said Carol Shumski. “I hope somebody wants to take that on.”
The general store, which has been a staple for nearly 85 years, is the hamlet’s only local option for groceries and Shumski fears for the future of the other seven businesses in Water Valley.
Many of the hamlet’s 800 residents, including Erin Kergen, are concerned.
“My husband and I have definitely seen a change since we've moved here within the last three years,” said Kergen. “There's been a few businesses that have actually closed their doors and come and gone just in the short time that we've been residents.”
“That impacts you. You're nervous. You don't want this to turn into a ghost town community. You really want to support the businesses that are vital services that are here.”
Prospective buyers are asked to contact the Water Valley General Store at 403-637-2109.
With files from CTV's Jamie Mauracher
