Target will replace Kmart
By Darleen Principe darleen@theacorn.com

As anticipated, the Kmart store on 51 E. Tierra Rejada Road will finally close its doors Jan. 9 to make room for Simi Valley's second Target store.

Approximately 71 employees will be affected by the change, said Brian Gabler, assistant city manager.

"Their lease was running out," Gabler said. "It was only a matter of time before new plans had to be made."

Kmart is scheduled to begin layoffs on Dec. 20, he said.

The Kmart shopping center, which is made up of two properties formerly owned by SWZ Partnership LLC, will be completely redeveloped by Target Corp. to include a 135,000 squarefoot Target store if approved.

Other businesses in the plaza, such as Chuck E. Cheese's, are not guaranteed space on the property once their leases expire.

"Target is purchasing everything over there," Gabler said. "Target is currently working with some of the other businesses to relocate them to other areas in the city."

Target Corp. is currently in the planning process and will have to go through the city planning commission before the project is finalized.

Kmart and Target officials could not be reached for comment.

According to Gabler, the city will continue to assist Target Corp. in its planning although it was not involved in the initial negotiations.