TELLICO PLAINS-The owner of a favorite Tellico Plains business has decided to not rebuild after the March tornado.

The KOA Campground in Tellico Plains, owned by the Stokely Company, was destroyed in the March 2 tornado that ravaged its way through the town. The campground was closed for the season when the tornado hit and was unable to open during the 2012 season due to damage.

"After much thought, analysis, discussion and yes, prayer, the decision has been made to not rebuild the KOA," said Stokely Company, in a press release on Tuesday morning. "In the final analysis, we looked at our 11 years in operations, receiving numerous awards, having an excellent staff, great campers, and a beautiful setting. However, with all these working in our favor, the business was not as successful financially as it needed to be."

The town of Tellico Plains will be greatly affected by the decision.

"It will have an impact on our tax revenue and will also impact the county as far as motel/hotel revenue. The county will also feel the impact of it," said Mayor Patrick Hawkins. "But, our direct effect will be the tourism. It'll definitely have a negative impact there. People want to come here, but we don't have a lot of lodging available. People spend the night and they spend more money. It's just sad news."

See full story in the Wednesday, August 8, edition of The Advocate & Democrat.