DEADWOOD, S.D. (AP) -- The decision is in - the historic Black Hills gambling town of Deadwood is losing its grocery store.

Blondie's IGA will close its doors at the end of November because of fewer customers, high utility costs and competition with other stores in the area.

The owners had met with Lead-Deadwood Economic Development Corp. Director Chuck Turbiville, a state representative, to discuss the future of the store, but they were unable to reach an agreement.

Turbiville says the building is old and has inefficient heating and electrical systems. He has applied for a $100,000 state energy efficiency grant to pay for a new furnace, compressor and electrical system.

Turbiville says if the city doesn't get another grocery store, it will most likely look at selling the property.

Blondie's IGA opened in Nov. 2007 after Decker's Food Pride closed in July of that year.

---

Information from: Black Hills Pioneer, http://www.bhpioneer.com

© 2009 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Learn more about our Privacy Policy.

Click here for copyright permissions! Copyright 2008 Associated Press