OAK HARBOR: Sound Off: There are reasons big businesses may not come to city

Local business owner (and Oak Harbor City Councilor) Bryan Stucky wrote an opinion piece for the Whidbey News-Times. Read the whole story.

It seems like every few weeks, there’s a new round of “We need a (blank) in Oak Harbor.” Costco! Whole Foods! Fred Meyer! But the truth is, many businesses are unlikely to come to Oak Harbor. Why?

Before taking over the movie theater in April, I spent the previous two years looking for something new to bring to our town…. I came very close to opening a Cinnabon/Auntie Anne’s/Jamba Juice combo. Vice presidents came out, plans were drawn up, contractors gave estimates — I was ready to go. But in the end, it fell through due to one critical issue: location.

So, what determines whether a corporate business or franchise will come to a place like Oak Harbor? There are a few key non-negotiables most companies consider:

1. Median income
2. Population and traffic
3. Location requirements

There are plenty of businesses I would love here! However I understand from the business point of view, the risks may not be worth it.

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On the Ballot in November 2025

CITY OF OAK HARBOR
Councilmember, Position 4 Barbara Armes
Councilmember, Position 5 James P. Marrow, the incumbent Brit Kraner Marrow was appointed to replace Shane Hoffmire until the results of the election are certified in November.
Councilmember, Position 6 Andy Plumlee Sandi Peterson Incumbent Jim Woessner did not file for another term.
Councilmember, Position 7 Bryan Stucky