District 1 Councilor Jenny Pacillo initially brought forward a request to look into the possibility of Worcester running its own grocery store, but it was met with some resistance from councilors who raised concerns about the original wording on the agenda who said a “municipally owned grocery store” could hurt the private sector.

Multiple grocery stores have closed in Worcester recently, prompting concern about a potential "food desert." Pacillo's amended order passed on an 8-2 vote, after some speakers expressed concern about government overreach.

With the recent closings of two grocery stores in Worcester, Massachusetts, leaders are discussing whether the city should step in. It’s an issue that takes many forms. “Food is a big problem here in Worcester,