Workers ready signage for the new Pizza Ranch buffet in Ark City Wednesday. (Photo by Brady Bauman)
Ark City’s Pizza Ranch is closer to reality as signage went up Wednesday at the former Sirloin Stockade and Kansas Buffet location.
In June, Brandon and Sarah Jellings informed city commissioners they were revamping the building to make way for the buffet franchise that serves fried chicken, pizza, sandwiches, salad and desert. They told city officials they were planning to open by the end of the year and also requested a property tax rebate that the board approved.
The Jellings, who reside in Cowley County, told commissioners they were in the process of completely remodeling the interior of the building, located at 2825 N. Summit. The building was built in 1986, according to the couple.
Ark City’s Pizza Ranch is expected to employ 40-50 people.
Commissioners unanimously approved a neighborhood revitalization rebate exemption, which allows a 90-percent tax rebate on any increase in property values over 10 years as a way to offset remodeling costs.
The Jellings told the commission this summer the building is under a $2 million remodeling plan and will include a “fun zone” that will include party rooms.
“Thank you so much for investing in our community and opening a business here and trusting us to help make it grow,” Commissioner Kanyon Gingher said in June. “I think it’s going to be amazing, and I’m excited for you and excited for us.”
Pizza Ranch first opened in 1981 in Hull, Iowa. It has grown to 207 locations across 14 states including three locations in Kansas in Hutchinson, Emporia and Manhattan. A location in Wichita is was also in the works as of this summer, with a similar opening timeline, according to the Wichita Eagle in March.
