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A resident walks through downtown Jacksonville on Dec. 24, 2025. (Credit: Danny Stipanovich)<\/p>\n
JACKSONVILLE, Ore. – Local businesses in Jacksonville are grappling with a significant slowdown in customer purchases, impacting their ability to stay afloat.<\/p>\n
“It\u2019s tough to keep your doors open when your receipts are less than your daily rent. And then add on, I can\u2019t believe how much it costs now just to heat this little building and turn the lights on,” Pat Montellano, owner of\u00a0Pine Street Treasures said.<\/p>\n
Store owners are voicing concerns about the challenges of maintaining operations amid rising expenses and dwindling sales.<\/p>\n
Debbie Carruthers, the owner of Country Quilts, has been in business for nearly four decades, offering unique gifts and handmade quilts.<\/p>\n
However, she notes a noticeable decline in customer purchases this holiday season.<\/p>\n
“People come in and look, but you know, they don\u2019t purchase. They\u2019re just checking things out,” Carruthers said.<\/p>\n
A nearby business owner, Montellano, echo’s\u00a0Carruthers’ concerns, highlighting the financial strain of running a business with low sales.<\/p>\n
Pat’s records show that November was particularly slow, with consumers seemingly hesitant to spend.<\/p>\n
“November was not a very busy month\u2026 the consumer I think is just holding back with their purchases,” Pat said.<\/p>\n
Both business owners observe that visitors often stick to California Street and leave before exploring other areas.<\/p>\n
Despite the challenges, Carruthers remains committed to her craft, driven by a passion for serving those who venture beyond the main street.<\/p>\n
Both owners suggested the city shut down driving through California Street to increase downtown’s walkability.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
The hope is that more tourists will explore Jacksonville’s hidden gems, providing a much-needed boost for local businesses.<\/p>\n
This story was reformatted from a\u00a0broadcast news script<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n Local businesses in Jacksonville are grappling with a significant slowdown in customer purchases, impacting their ability to stay afloat. Store owners are voicing concerns about the challenges of maintaining operations amid rising expenses and dwindling sales.<\/p>\n
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