The former Kmart store is pictured in December 2019 along Fairmount Avenue. P-J file photo

The former Kmart building in West Ellicott has been purchased by Target.

Pat McLaughlin, Ellicott town supervisor, said he has confirmed with the Chautauqua County Clerk’s Office that the real estate arm for Target has purchased the former Kmart building located at 975 Fairmount Ave. and in the same plaza as Wegmans and the Home Depot.

“I cannot confirm that Target is moving into that building, but I can confirm that Target has bought the building,” McLaughlin said.

WJTN first reported the news of the purchase Thursday.

McLaughlin said no one with Target or anyone representing the retail corporation have contacted the town about the purchase. He said if Target wanted to install a sign or expand the building they would have to file a permit with the town. He said, currently, Target has a “use by right” statute that would allow them to start operating a retail store because that is how the building was previously used.

“They wouldn’t have to approach the town right away because of the use by right,” McLaughlin said. “However, if they want to put up a sign, they would have to come to us for a sign permit. Once they do that, we will be pretty sure they will be moving in.”

It was announced in August 2019 that Kmart’s retail operation locally was going to be closing. Sears Holdings announced in August 2019 that it planned to close several of its Sears and Kmart locations by late October 2019.

McLaughlin said he is glad that the building seems to be in the process of reopening with a new retail operator.

“I look forward to (Target),” he said. “I think it’s pretty exciting.”

A spokesperson from Target confirmed with The Post-Journal that the retail corporation has plans to open a store in Jamestown in the next few years.

“We’re excited to bring an easy, safe and convenient shopping experience to new guests in this community with this new Target store. Located at 975 Fairmount Ave., the store will be approximately 117,000 square feet,” the spokesperson said in an email. “As we get closer to opening the store, we’ll have more specific details to share – including how the shopping experience will be tailored to serve local guests and the grand opening date.”