Posted at: 01/26/2010 5:27 PM | KSAX.com
By: Megan Matthews

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Community Reacts to Loss of Two Little Falls Businesses

LITTLE FALLS, MINN. - A devastating fire engulfed two businesses downtown Little Falls Sunday night destroying everything. 

Mike Jensen and other members of the community who witnessed the fire are feeling a sense of loss.

"Whenever you hear a report of a downtown fire, and you can see the glow and the smoke it's pretty compelling," Jensen said.

The fire completely destroyed Iron Hills Pawnshop and adjoining business Bill's Decorating and Contracting.

"Your heart goes out to the people that own and operate those businesses and the loss that they have sustained," Jensen said.

Jensen, who owns a local photography business called Silker Studio, said it's hard to see two businesses destroyed.

"They're essentially out of business, and as a business owner...my heart goes out to them. I think it's hard for the community to lose any business to a fire," he explained.

The fire started in the pawn shop, according to Little Falls Police Chief.  They don't expect foul play, but they're still investigating the cause of the fire.  Chief Mike Pender said the fire could have been worse if it hadn't been contained.

"The damage was limited to that one building so you can be thankful for that," Chief Pander said but went on to say the building will have to come down.

The community hopes these businesses will be able to pick up and start over.

"Hopefully they'll be able to find new locations and to get back in business, because they are an important part of our community," Jensen said.

After losing everything in a tough economy, it's hard to say whether or not these businesses will come back.

"It is, and obviously some of the decisions get based on the circumstances there," Jensen said.

The cleaners business saved by firefighters has some smoke and water damage.  They are temporarily closed until they can clean up everything, but the clothes inside weren't damaged.

Written for the web by Megan Matthews

megan@ksax.com