Walmart’s impact may be on wildlife

Dear Editor,

I’ve been reading a lot lately and listening to several opinions regarding Walmart coming to Powhatan.  Personally I don’t agree with the way Walmart operates, but then again there are a lot of companies, politicians, etc. that I don’t agree with.  I understand that the county needs to attract businesses to support our county.  I am in agreement with having businesses that appeal to our rural nature and provide for my needs locally. And I, like most people, moved out here years ago to escape the commercialism that appears to be becoming a more common way of American living.

My biggest concern regarding Walmart coming to our county is in relation to the environmental impact on our wildlife’s habitat and our water supply as much of the county is on a well system.  I’m concerned about pollution from the additional traffic, littering of those little plastic bags that tend to decorate the roadways, and the excess light that will be emitted. Now Walmart states they are going to stay within the “feel” of Powhatan by obstructing the view from the main road, landscaping and natural vegetation for the polluted runoff that comes from parking lots. 

If Walmart is allowed to come, I ask this.  Why does Walmart have to build such a big building?  155,000 square feet?

Why not build a smaller building and stop trying to monopolize the market for every business they can fit under one roof?  This is not “community” when you are all about yourself and don’t find a way to work with local businesses. My interpretation of this is that it comes down to how much money can be made.  The family that owns Walmart are some of the richest people.  Seriously, how much money do you need?  I’m not getting a warm fuzzy family feeling about Walmart.  Sorry Walmart, but you can sugarcoat your agenda any way you want to, but I’m not buying it.

Bethanie Good
Powhatan resident

Walmart will be a good thing for Powhatan

Dear Editor,

As a working mother of 2 boys, I am thrilled that Walmart will be moving into Powhatan. 

I have been a customer of Walmart since they first opened their doors several years ago in Midlothian when my husband and I first started our family.But like a lot of Powhatan residents, we decided to move out of Chesterfield to get away from the throngs of people and raise our children in a much less crowded community in which everywhere you go, you run into someone you know.

 We want to be able to live, work and SHOP in Powhatan and look forward to the day when we don’t have to travel “into town” just to save a buck on groceries or buy gifts for a child’s birthday party.

 Like many folks, I will continue to be faithful to the likes of places such as Powhatan Pharmacy.  Where else can you get your prescriptions filled and purchase handmade gifts or Yankee Candles and have them gift-wrapped for free all at the same place?

 I think, however,that its about time that someone gave places like Food Lion a run for their money.  Since Food Lion is the only grocery store chain in Powhatan, they believe they can name their price and people will be forced to pay for it.  Walmart will provide a breath of fresh air and competition where competition has never existed. 

 I can understand why some folks are worried about the loss of community and ruralness that Walmart could bring, but I think that we are a better county than that.  It is the people that make a village, not the buildings.

Candice Shelor
Powhatan