Members of Elliot Lake City Council held their noses and voted for a percentage lease agreement that will bring a Hart Store to Pearson Plaza.
They met in Special Session on Tuesday night and voted for the arrangement in which McGowan & Associates of Barrie is the landlord, the city the sublandlord and Hart Stores the tenant, for more than 7,200 square feet of retail space.
All council members including mayor Dan Marchisella said it wasn't the deal they wanted but in light of the fact the city is spending $10,000 a month for unused space, it would be better to get something for it, rather than absolutely nothing.
The Hart Store will pay 10 percent of its annual net revenue for the next six years and has the option to take more space, up to 10,000 square feet.
The vote was 6 to 1 with Councillor Chris Patrie, who said the city will receive very little return from the agreement, voting against.
Job creation and more local retail selection were listed as two reasons for accepting the lease.
Hart stores will start moving in later this month while planning for a grand opening by Nov. 1.