EAST HARTFORD, Conn. — The clock is ticking for the remaining businesses at the Silver Lane Plaza in East Hartford.
Eviction notices were recently handed out which stated they would have to eventually leave or find a new location.
"This is not the time for me to look for another place," said Herman Todd, owner of Living Word Imprints.
Todd and the other businesses received the eviction notice two weeks ago which informed them they have 90 days to leave.
While the businesses knew the town had plans to do this, some are overwhelmed by the tight deadline.
"All we’re objecting to is the way that we, the tenants are being treated and the rush," added Todd.
Todd told FOX61 he will relocate, but the thought of where has not even crossed his mind.
"If I try to move now, what will happen to my whole entire year for school uniforms? This is what keeps me in business!" added Todd.
East Hartford Mayor Mike Walsh assured the 90 day notice is just to get businesses' attention which means they can stay past August if more time is needed.
Businesses were also given an additional four page notice which offered moving expenses.
"We’re able to extend their lease to September, October, November, December but you got to give us a plan," said Mayor Walsh of East Hartford.
The decision, Mayor Walsh said, is being made for the safety of the owners.
"We understand it’s disruptive but the plaza is not safe, the plaza cannot be insured, the plaza cannot be re-developed," added Mayor Walsh.
For others, like Je Mart Oriental Grocery, the owners found a new location at the Manchester Parkade Plaza.
It is just a matter of figuring out the logistics by August.
"Making sure oh everyone knows we’re moving and like going to a different place, getting all the plumbing and electricity, all that figured out, obviously it’s a big deal," said Grace Chon of Je Mart Oriental Grocery.
Mayor Walsh said ideally, he would like the businesses to leave no later than December, but it depends on the relocation progress of the individual businesses.
Carmen Chau is an anchor and reporter at FOX61 News. She can be reached at cchau@fox61.com. Follow her on Facebook and Twitter.
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