By Jessica Kenley

COUDERSPORT, Pa. — As conversations continue throughout Coudersport regarding food availability and the possibility of new grocery options coming into the area, community members are sharing their thoughts, concerns, and hopes for the future.

Access to affordable food remains an important topic for many residents throughout Potter County, where rural communities often face unique challenges when it comes to grocery access, transportation, and maintaining local services.

As it stands currently, Shop-n-Save, owned by Stan Swank, is the only grocery store in Coudersport. 

There are two Dollar Generals in Coudersport, which do not provide or carry any fresh produce, and dairy and meat options are limited. 

One local resident, who asked not to be named, described Coudersport as a “Food Desert,” citing that she has no vehicle or vehicular access, and therefore has to shop largely at the local Dollar General and carry her groceries home, a length of approximately one mile. She said that she cannot shop at the local Shop-n-Save because she only has SNAP benefits (food stamps) to rely on for the month, and it is “just too damn expensive.”

This resident is a single mother in her mid-forties, who is disabled and has an autistic son.

During discussions among residents, questions surfaced regarding the potential impact a new grocery retailer could have on existing businesses and the broader community. As those conversations spread, Monarch Media sought clarification regarding one specific concern circulating locally.

A rumor had developed that a local business owner had allegedly suggested withdrawing financial support from local emergency services if a new grocery store were to come into the borough.

This rumor was disclosed to this reporter by a driver who often transports customers with no vehicles and disabled customers to and from the local Shop N Save for their groceries. The driver alleged that he had heard this from several townspeople at different times recently.

He characterized the situation as “holding the town of Coudersport hostage,” because of high grocery prices at Shop N Save.

Rather than relying on speculation, Monarch Media reached out directly to the individual named in those discussions to provide an opportunity to respond.

When asked about the allegation, the business owner said he did not know where the claim originated and did not want to become involved in controversy surrounding the issue.

“I don’t know where all this stuff’s coming from,” he said during the conversation.

He also stated that he had recently provided financial support to local emergency services, saying he had just sent a $5,000 contribution to the fire department.

Abigail Rossman did not return a message left at her business after several days, which is Cream ‘n Sugar in downtown Coudersport, and both the Fire Chief and the Fire Department Treasurer were contacted. 

Mrs. Rossman is the current Chair, (aka “President”) of the Coudersport Borough Council.

The Fire Chief stated that he knew nothing of the claim, and the Treasurer said that of the Coudersport Fire Department’s $300,000 annual budget, only approximately $48,000 comes from the entire Borough in donations, which would include Shop-n-Save and all other business and private donations.

The conversation highlights the importance of open communication in small communities, where economic development decisions often involve balancing the needs of residents, existing businesses, and essential services.

Community members who spoke on the issue expressed that local decisions should prioritize the needs of residents as a whole, emphasizing the importance of access to resources and the role taxpayers play in supporting their community.

For many residents, the larger discussion is not about one business or one proposal, but about the future of food access in Coudersport and surrounding areas.

In Potter County, PA, roughly 14.9% of the population receives SNAP benefits. Given the county’s total population of about 16,396, this means approximately 2,443 residents rely on the program to meet their nutritional needs.

As discussions continue, Monarch Media will continue following developments regarding possible new grocery options–there has been an informal proposal to create an Aldi’s grocery store at the site of the old Rite Aid, local economic impacts, and community response.

The Shop N Save located at 9 W 2nd St in Coudersport, PA, is owned and managed by Stan Swank.

If you need to reach him or want to check on a specific item or service, you can contact the store directly at (814) 274-9102.