End of an era for Mick's

The fuel pumps at Mick's 281 Service in New Rockford have officially been retired.

The local business has been filling gas and diesel tanks in the community for decades, but on Monday, Feb. 7, owner Ken Thompson was notified that his gas pumps and tanks were no longer in compliance with state regulations, and must be shut down.

Mick's 281 has been a popular option for fueling up in New Rockford since 1980, when Malcolm "Mick" Thompson and his son, Ken, first opened the business.

Now, however, those that relied on their service will have to look elsewhere for gasoline and diesel.

According to Thompson, the state has been at the station several times this year to review their tanks and pumps, which haven't been replaced since the early 1990s.

Now more than 30 years old, they simply weren't up to par with regulations anymore and Thompson said the cost to bring in new pumps, tanks and monitoring equipment is simply too much.

Therefore, Mick's 281 will no longer be a source for gasoline and diesel in New Rockford.

"It's just way too expensive for me as an independent owner to get into anymore," said Thompson. "I just don't have the backing of the corporate world and co-ops, so I just felt it wasn't going to be in my time to redo that."

Mick's 281 Service was the last independent gas station left in New Rockford before this week, leaving no more independent options for those looking to fill up their tanks locally.

Looking ahead, Thompson said the pumps and tanks will eventually have to be removed, though he doesn't yet know when that will be.

Thompson said he regrets having to shut down his pumps, and expressed his gratitude to the loyal customers who've come to rely on Mick's 281 for their gas and diesel.

"I want to thank all of my wonderful customers throughout the years," he said. "I don't know what to say other than my heart's broken that I can't take care of the people like I used to for their gas services."

However, though it may be the end of an era for them, Mick's 281 itself isn't going anywhere.

The local business has been a popular auto repair shop and convenience store for the past 40+ years, which won't be changing anytime soon.

Thompson said they'll continue to operate the auto repair shop and will still serve fresh, hot Champ's Chicken and sides in the convenience store.

Mick's 281 Service is open from 6 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday through Friday. Make an appointment for auto service and repair by calling (701) 947-2386.