Columbia business declared public nuisance, permanently closed.

• Position: Missouri, Main's Best LLC

A downtown business has been permanently closed by the Columbia Police Department after being deemed a public nuisance.

Main's Best LLC, a convenience and grocery store at 2132 Main St., was officially declared a public nuisance on Aug. 15 because the location has "proven to be a drain on police resources," according to a press release. The store is located near the intersection of Main Street and Elmwood Avenue.

Since January 2021, CPD officers have responded to more than 200 calls for service at the store for documented criminal offenses including drug possession and distribution, larceny, loitering, urinating and defecating in public, alcohol violations and litter and trash accumulation.

"The primary factor that determined the business a nuisance focuses on criminal activity and quality of life issues that have detrimentally affected surrounding businesses and neighborhoods," CPD officials...