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During these times when so many other locations in our country are on hard times and seem to be failing in attempts to revive, I find it comforting that the Shoals area seems to be prospering so well. I hear there is a Builders Square going in across the river from Florence. Companies like this do not make moves to expand without first conducting studies that will assure them of success. Something is going on that most of the populace of the Shoals probably is not aware of. I know I’m not, I like the growth, I like having more choices. The local merchants are always my first choice to do business with but they cannot always supply me with what is needed if my need is immediate.  They can order what I need if time is on my side and when it is they get my business. I especially like dealing with local merchants that can sell me products made in the USA.

For the sake of argument consider a few things and answer honestly.  Would hone owned businesses or other businesses along Cloverdale road have exposure to more people than they most likely do now when WalMart opens?  I suggest that WalMart will draw many more people to this area than come now hence the businesses along the road and in the area will have access to those shoppers as they drive by and see their road signage and may even stop in and shop when they wouldn't have before. 

 

What about Walmart locating another store here will put the locals out of business?  I suggest that there is already a WalMart close by and if it is their low prices why hasn't the existing WalMart, as close as it is, put these places out of business? 

 

Walmart surely does offer a lot of part time and temp jobs but surely some full time jobs as well and while I would like to see more high paying jobs fact is that many don't qualify for jobs like that and would not have opportunities for employment unless it's from a place like Walmart.  I suggest that the jobs that a new Walmart will offer would not have been offered in the area if not for the new Walmart and that if some jobs disappear account of some store closings due to fear of WalMart then a new WalMart that is open 24 hours will provide far more jobs than are displaced or lost so is that not a good thing overall for the area's employment and those seeking employment now?  Also add to that the tracts of land in front of the Walmart and other areas along Cloverdale road that will most likely have additional growth and that growth also will provide jobs.

 

There is concern about the cemetery's location to the new WalMart access road and while that is a valid concern I suggest that the money that WalMart is donating for upkeep and addressing the Cemetery will provide much more care and access to the cemetery than it ever has had.  Fact is that it was and is in a state of disrepair and upkeep and the presence of Walmart and their donations for upkeep of it will benefit the Cemetery far more than if Walmart never located there for then the Cemetery would be forgotten yet again.

 

Walmart will effect land values in the area as well.  That is also an argument against Walmart but in most cases and in this case there will be some lots and land that becomes less desirable and the owners will potentially suffer some loss of value if they decide or decided to sell and relocate but on the balance far more people will find that their property will appreciate and gain value account of the added convenience and growth in the area.

 

I fully admit that some will suffer loss and some will be more inconvenienced with the new Walmart.  I expect that traffic will be greater in the area making it a bit more difficult to sail through the area without having to stop for maybe an extra traffic light.  That extra traffic though will be incentive for the State Engineering and road department to make improvements to the area that may not have come or achieved the need without a catalyst like Walmart being built.  Extra traffic also should and will bring potential new customers by and to stores that already exist in the area which means potential new opportunity for the mom and pop businesses around the area.  Yes some may find it difficult to compete but then a lot of people, a lot of those that will drive by, will appreciate the personal attention and care of those home owned places and potentially go in and shop there.  Just because Walmart is built should not change people's opinions about shopping at mom and pop, locally owned businesses so what is it about Walmart that threatens them so much and that will change from what it is now with the Florence Walmart just three hours away?   

 

I guess I'm still trying to understand just what the big threat is that Walmart poses to the Petersville and Cloverdale road area?   What disadvantages and negatives are there that will not be far overshadowed and exceeded by the positives that a new WalMart will bring including additional taxes to the City to assist in paying for services all over the city?  While I am happy for Walmart coming and am for it I also reserve the right to change my opinion, not that my opinion matters one way or the other.  IF there is a valid and rational argument against Walmart then I'm open to hear it but don't say the Cemetery is the reason when it's been so neglected by everyone for all those years prior to consideration of Walmart.  I'm just amazed at the number of locals here that fear Walmart, that act or seem to act as if the sky is falling or it's going to be the end of the world.  I'm just saying has there been a valid and reasonable judgment made of the negatives verses the positives and there are both with respect to the new Walmart. 

Originally Posted by CitizenCaint:

We live near the new walmart location.  My wife is for it for the convenience but I

don't like them putting other local businesses out of business.  It might create a few

more jobs but it will be low paying jobs.

So what?  Retail jobs in the Shoals have always been low-paying jobs.  Walmart will bring more low paying jobs, but they ARE jobs.

Originally Posted by Contendah:
Originally Posted by CitizenCaint:

We live near the new walmart location.  My wife is for it for the convenience but I

don't like them putting other local businesses out of business.  It might create a few

more jobs but it will be low paying jobs.

So what?  Retail jobs in the Shoals have always been low-paying jobs.  Walmart will bring more low paying jobs, but they ARE jobs.

It would more than likely be a transfer of low wage jobs than create new.  Something will close..  Perhaps it would make up for some of the lost JC Penneys jobs.

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