Power outage affects Seminole Towne Center, causing lights to go out
The Seminole Towne Center in Sanford faced a temporary closure on Thursday as shops within the mall were compelled to shut down due to a power outage resulting from unpaid electric bills. Technicians from Florida Power & Light took action by disconnecting the power supply to the building, leading to the closure of the mall, with notices posted at entrances to inform the public of the situation.
In response to the incident, an FPL representative emphasized that disconnection for nonpayment is considered a last resort, highlighting the company’s commitment to working with customers, including the Seminole Towne Center in Sanford, to facilitate payment arrangements and avoid such disruptions. The decision to cut off power, albeit regrettable, was deemed necessary to ensure fairness among all customers, as unpaid bills contribute to higher rates for everyone.
The economic development director for the city of Sanford, Brady Lessard, revealed that a portion of the mall ownership was in arrears on their electric bill, prompting the selective power shutdown. Despite the setback, representatives of the affected ownership group reassured the city and tenants of their efforts to settle the outstanding payment and restore power to the common areas of the mall.
Amidst the turmoil, major retailers such as Dillards, JCPenny, and ELEV8 were reported to be up to date with their electric bills and operating normally with a stable power supply. However, the financial woes of the mall extended beyond the power issue, as it was disclosed that the establishment was facing nearly $1 million in unpaid property taxes, according to records from the Seminole County Tax Collector’s Office.
As Friday dawned, the mall remained in a state of darkness with closure signs still prominently displayed, leaving uncertainty regarding its reopening. While the mall’s usual operating hours on a Friday are scheduled from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., the exact timeline for resuming operations remains unknown, creating a sense of anticipation among patrons and businesses alike.
In conclusion, the Seminole Towne Center’s plight serves as a stark reminder of the financial challenges faced by commercial establishments, underscoring the importance of timely bill payments and fiscal responsibility in sustaining business operations. The unfolding events at the mall reflect a broader narrative of economic struggles and the need for proactive measures to mitigate financial risks and ensure continued viability in the competitive retail landscape.
