A Coos Bay Planning Commission review of commercial development on Newmark Avenue was postponed again at the request of a developer.

The site plan and architectural review for a business that is expected to bring in a Walgreens and another undetermined company, originally scheduled for June, was continued from Tuesday night to the Aug. 12 meeting.

"This will give us an opportunity to perfect our site plan in accordance with our specific tenant needs," wrote Grant Appleton, a PacWest Group representative for Newmark-de Vos LLC.

Walgreens, a nationwide pharmacy and drug store, is expected to add 20 to 30 jobs to the local employment base.

Michaels, a Texas-based seller of arts and crafts supplies, had been proposed to move into a new development along Newmark Avenue but may not be moving into the site after all, according to a developer working on the project.

A month ago, discussions with Michaels appeared to break down. Appleton has said Newmark-de Vos LLC, will continue to work with Michaels to fill one of two spots at the development located at Newmark Avenue and LaClair Street. In the meantime, the project is moving forward and alternative businesses to fill Michaels' spot are being considered.

Michaels had been expected to hire approximately 20 employees.

Newmark-de Vos LLC, an Ashland-based company which also owns the Staples building near the proposed development, purchased the LaClair Street property for just under $1 million, according to Realtor Andy Nasburg, of North Point Realty.

The Coos Bay Planning Commission must give the development its final stamp of approval before construction can begin.

The company had reported ambitious plans to open the businesses by Oct. 15, two weeks prior to the expected end of a project to widen the narrow portion of Newmark Avenue to five lanes.

Nasburg previously estimated the development may be delayed by three months.

- Andrew Sirocchi, staff writer