The work at the Wal Mart store in Owen Sound is not an expansion.
But it is part of a 1.2 million dollar renovation at the big box retailer on the City’s eastside.
The City earlier this year turned down Wal Mart’s application to expand the store — so instead — the retailer is renovating to expand its food section.
Councillor Jim McManaman says the project will not add to overall size of the facility.
Council cannot stop renovations to the 16th Street East store, as long as it doesn’t involve a bigger “foot-print” for the building.
McManaman says the city rejected the proposed 39 thousand square foot expansion in the spring because of fears the new larger grocery section could kill business downtown, specifically Metro.
McManaman adds the rumours that Wal-Mart will return to Council later to apply for for an expansion is just talk for now.