The possible sale of Younkers department store by its parent company, Saks Inc., could affect proposed mall negotiations between the city of Ames and Wolford Development.

The city has requested that at least one of the two anchor stores in James “Bucky” Wolford’s proposed mall at the corner of 13th Street and Interstate 35 should be new to Ames. New ownership of Younkers would not satisfy the city’s requirement if it were proposed as a potential anchor for a new commercial center.

“The expectation is to get one new anchor to Ames,” said Matt Flynn, director of planning and housing. “If that’s something Wolford wants to negotiate, we’ll take a look at it.”

Saks Incorporated announced Friday that it is selling Proffitt’s and McRae’s department stores to Belk Inc. for $622 million. In a statement, the company said it is exploring the idea of selling its northern department store division that includes Younkers. The company said there is no guarantee it will sell its 143 Midwest stores.

”We are exploring alternatives for our northern division, but have no specific plans in Ames,” said Julia Bentley, senior vice president of investor relations at Saks Inc.

Flynn said after talking to several people in the retail business, he thinks the Younkers sale is more than speculation.

Wolford said since sales in the retail industry are beyond his control, specific requirements are unfair.

“I don’t control this business. The retailers decide what’s going on,” he said. “I’m a businessman and I believe in free enterprise. I believe the market ought to dictate.”

According to Daily staff reports, City Manager Steve Schainker said previously that the reason for the new anchor requirement was that the City Council wanted to know what it would get in return if the agreement is approved.

Wolford has said he is uncomfortable with details of the rezoning agreement being publicized in the media.

“I’m very concerned about the development agreement in the news media, and I’m struggling on how to handle it,” he said. ”It’s not a good situation when you have something so important to both parties.”

Flynn said the plan was released to the public after residents showed distrust of the city.

“Ames is an open community,” Flynn said. “Everyone wants to know specifics before the deal is finalized. That’s the way Ames is.”

Schainker said he is expecting a response from Wolford soon. After negotiations are finalized, the agreement will be presented to the Planning and Zoning Commission, which will make recommendations to City Council.