Businesses inside Towne West Mall in Wichita, Kansas, are scrambling to relocate after receiving unexpected termination notices. The mall’s new owners, Wichita Maple Company, LLC, and the Baughman Company, have given non-anchor tenants less than three weeks to move out. The sudden notice has left small business owners shocked and frustrated, especially after earlier assurances that they could remain. While anchor stores like Dillard’s, JCPenney, and Boulevard Theaters are not affected, the future of the rest of the mall now appears uncertain.

Short Notice Shocks Tenants

Many tenants were originally told they would have at least 30 days to one year to relocate. Instead, a notice delivered in mid-June required all non-anchor businesses to vacate their spaces by 5 p.m. on June 30. That gives businesses just 19 days to pack up and leave. For those who have operated in the mall for years, like Superstar Sports, the notice came as a complete surprise.

Promises Made, Then Broken

When the new owners purchased Towne West Mall in March, tenants said they were told the mall would remain operational and they could continue doing business there. This initial communication gave many store owners hope for a fresh start under new management. However, the eviction notice has quickly reversed that optimism. Several tenants say they feel misled by the new ownership.

Communication Breakdown

Store owners have expressed frustration over the lack of communication from the new landlords. Carla Christenbury of C’s Scents said she and others tried repeatedly to reach the owners through calls, texts, and emails but received no response. This lack of transparency has made an already stressful situation worse, leaving tenants unsure of their next steps.

Longtime Businesses Forced to Leave

Superstar Sports, which has operated in the mall for nearly 25 years, is among the businesses being forced to leave. Manager Sam Stuart described the situation as a “gut punch” and criticized the eviction process as “shady” and lacking openness. He said the way the notice was delivered and the short timeline for leaving has deeply hurt local businesses that have long supported the mall.

Anchor Stores Exempt from Evictions

While smaller tenants must vacate, the mall’s anchor stores have not received the same orders. Dillard’s Clearance Center, Boulevard Theaters, and JCPenney are not included in the termination notices. This exemption suggests that parts of the property may continue operating, even as other sections are cleared out.

Zoning Change Signals Shift in Property Use

The companies that purchased the mall have requested a zoning change to allow for redevelopment with a focus on manufacturing. Though the companies have not shared specific plans for the site, the zoning request indicates that they may be looking to repurpose the space for something other than retail. When asked by 12 News, Baughman declined to disclose future plans for the mall.

Troubled Past Under Previous Ownership

Towne West Mall has faced multiple challenges in recent years. Under the ownership of the Kohan Retail Investment Group, the mall experienced recurring power outages due to unpaid utility bills. Several businesses and nonprofits left during this period, citing unreliable conditions and a lack of support from management. These issues contributed to the mall’s declining reputation and tenant base. The decision to evict businesses with short notice and limited communication raises questions about the new owners’ intentions and their commitment to the local community. Tenants and community members alike are watching closely to see what comes next.