Instead of changing zoning and size requirements, why can’t Westbrook say that we don’t want an outfit like Wal-Mart in our community, and keep them out? Some communities have done this.
Why does Saunders Brothers have to sell to Wal-Mart? They own a desirable piece of property that they can sell to someone else. There could be some better businesses to go in there.
We all know what Wal-Mart does. They will do anything, legal or illegal, so that they can say their prices are lower than their competitors. They have been fined for hiring illegals, they pay low wages, there have been issues over overtime pay, and, they don’t give decent benefits.
Of course, there are taxes we will get and jobs provided by Wal-Mart. However, consider all the taxes we will lose from the smaller businesses that are pushed out, and the better paying jobs that are lost. Many small businesses have been here for years and are a valuable part of our community.
It was reported that some Wal-Mart business is slowing and they may focus more on food. We have a new Hannaford and Shaws in Westbrook, we don’t need Wal-Mart food.
Another report is that Wal-Mart has hired a public relations company to repair their image. Don’t be fooled.
Jean Jordan
Westbrook
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