Dollar Depot manager Dolly Boling has purchased the downtown Bonners Ferry store. Boling plans to change the “dollar” image, while still keeping discount items.

“You really can’t buy anything that is worth anything or that lasts for a dollar anymore,” said Boling.

Vi Sims sold the store at 7214 Main St.  Sims decided at 80 years of age, she was ready to sell and travel, Boling said.

“I will making changes and will strive to get merchandise at a low price point, like dollar items but also mid-to-upper range items as well,” said Boling.   “ I will continue to deal with wholesalers and carry items found at Walmart, Target and The Home Depot.”

Boling said some Walmart stores in the country have closed.  The merchandise is sold to discount wholesalers.  Boling said she can pick up and re-sell some items for  less than Walmart can or around 20 cents more. 

“This is still a deal if you consider, time, gas, wear and tear for driving to Sandpoint,” said Boling.“I would like to offer a place where I can keep neighbors and people in the community employed and offer a place where neighbors can shop local.”

Boling would like to add small appliances. Some of the quality items she will carry will include jewelry, gift items, home decor and housewares. 

“Recently I was able to purchase leather backpacks and will look to carry them in the future as well as leather purses,”  she said.

Within the next couple weeks, Boling will have a suggestion box  in the store, asking  customers to help re-name the store.  Boling would like to get the community involved with the name change and choose something catchy to promote the new image, keeping in mind discount items will still be available at the store.

Boling employs four people and said she would not have bought the store if the employees hadn’t agreed to stay.

“I have the greatest crew, and we all work together very well,” said Boling.

The Dollar Depot is open 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.

Boling will soon be hosting a food and coat drive in the store.  For information, call 267-3286.