Casey’s General Store is now evaluating how to proceed after the Pella City Council denied their site plan request for a new store at the corner of Main and Union Streets at this week’s meeting.

Vice President of Finance Brian Johnson told KNIA/KRLS News the organization is disappointed with the outcome of the vote.

He says they still intended to replace two stores downtown and the location on Oskaloosa Street.

“We believe they do not fully meet the needs of our customers,” Johnson said.

The Pella City Council held a four hour meeting earlier this week to review a site plan submitted by Casey’s earlier this year. They approved an amendment to change the city’s comprehensive plan to match the current commercial zoning on the property 3-2, but rejected the store’s plan on a 2-3 vote following extensive discussion and public comment. Councilmember Dan Vander Beek abstained due to his relation to the property owner.

An attorney guiding the council at the meeting said Casey’s could submit an appeal to the Iowa District Court, but Johnson said they are evaluating all of their options and did not indicate what their next step will be.