The former J&J Electric store looked like this on July 24, 2026.
The building that for many years housed a prominent lighting and electric business in southwest Albany is undergoing a major reconstruction.
J&J Electric and Home Decor had been in business at 885 22nd Ave. SW since 1965. The store closed in February 2025 when its owners retired.
Larry and Marge Tomlin had owned the store since 1985. Both Tomlins died late last year, Larry in November and Marge just before Christmas.
(I first met Larry when he was one of the key players in solving North Albany’s water problems in the 1970s. He was instrumental in consolidating several water systems and getting Pacific Power & Light to build a water main across the Willamette River.)
In July 2025, Jonathan and Kelly Hatch of Scio, the owners of Linn Benton Plumbing, bought the former J&J property for $750,000, according to Linn County records available online.
The Albany building permit summarizes the reconstruction now underway in these words: “Tenant improvement, repairs, and addition at existing commercial
building. Plumbing contractor to occupy majority of building, remainder for lease. 1495 SQFT addition.”
The permit values the project at $1.4 million.
I stopped by the site on a bike ride Friday evening. It was obvious that this was more than just “repairs.” (hh)
The old J&J store’s sign was stored inside the construction site on Friday evening.
Thanks, Hasso, for the info on the remodel.
Happy to see someone purchased the business along with the building….people need plumbers more than ever…no 4 year degree needed..plain hard work..
That used to be the Honda motorcycle dealership back in the 1960s and 70s? Or is it next door? Glad that good people were the owners there.
The motorcycle shop was just to the north. I think that the building they were in had been moved from Queen and Elm.
When my Labrador Retriever was still living I often walked by the store when taking her on walks. Staff would regularly come outside to give her treats.