The city has decided to walk away from negotiations with Canby Brewing Company following a discussion in executive session last night.
The nascent craft brewery headed by Sara and Jered Sloss was selected by the City Council in January from among four proposals that were submitted for the space from various local businesses and organizations.
But according to City Administrator Rick Robinson, discussions with Canby Brewing never progressed beyond the preliminary stages.
“After some initial conversations, we felt it was a better next step to take it off the market and really determine the best use for that space,” Robinson said. “We want to take our time and make the best decision we possibly can.”
Robinson declined to discuss the negotiations in detail, but did say there had never been a formal agreement with the Slosses in place.
“After preliminary discussions, we just felt like the right thing to do was to not continue negotiations with Canby Brewing,” he said. “We’re going to look at doing something on our own, something else with that building that will activate that corner.”
One possibility that the city will consider is a small business incubator, a model that has worked in other communities, including Woodburn and Beaverton.
Reached for comment Wednesday, Sara Sloss released the following statement:
“While we are disappointed with the city’s decision, we will not let this deter us from pursuing our dream of opening up Canby’s first brewery. We will go back to the drawing board and look at other options as far as a location goes. We appreciate the community’s continued support.”
