City to pen agreement with Chuckanut Bay Foods

Packaged dessert producer Chuckanut Bay Foods is entering into a purchase agreement with the city of Blaine for 2.8 acres of property on the former site of the Blaine Municipal Airport, just south of Boblett Street.

The agreement allots 120 days for the business to perform due diligence to make sure it meets its needs. If it’s still committed to moving forward with the purchase after that period, it will agree to post a $10,000 down payment and the contract will be presented to the city council once again.

Late last year, Chuckanut Bay Foods owners Matt Roth and Dave Loeppky made a purchase offer to the city in hopes of relocating to a larger facility from their current location in Ferndale. The property in Blaine has significant advantages, they say, including proximity to Interstate 5 and existing business partners, including T.C. Trading Company.

The business, which started more than 25 years ago, employs 80 workers with an annual $2.5 million payroll.

Known for its cheesecakes, the manufacturer distributes its products nation-wide to major retailers including Fred Meyer, Albertsons, Whole Foods, Safeway and others.

According to city manager Dave Wilbrecht, the city is offering the business a discounted price for the property if they adhere to specific performance standards.