Column: This Side of the Fence
There are all kinds of problems being addressed with the possibility of a new Wal-Mart looming in south Logan. There are issues with flooding, issues with lighting and traffic problems being discussed and taken care of as the Wal-Mart corporation prepares to expand. But even along with those, there are still the underlying issues of what this will do to small business in Logan City and what kind of economic impact there will be.
There is no debating that Wal-Mart is an important business in Cache Valley. Speaking from my position of college student, Wal-Mart is almost essential. There is no better place for me to get everything I need – from grocery items to duct tape, and I know the price will be fair. I can accomplish the tedious task of shopping in less time with fewer stops, which not only frees more time for me to be doing other things, but saves me money in gas.
There is also no denying that Logan is served by a number of other businesses – smaller – but still valued. Most of south Logan is composed of these smaller-type businesses. These shops provide all kinds of services, some similar in nature to Wal-Mart’s and some unique unto themselves. These places are an integral part of Logan’s economy and the destruction of such would not be to the community’s benefit.
However, whether big business will take over Logan or not is not something left to the city council, or as it was thought last Thursday, the planning commission. It needs to be understood that government entities such as these are not left to run commerce. They are upholding the law, approving expansions that comply with predetermined code. The citizens are the ones who control the market. Like the oldest rule of business, “you have to give the people what they want.” Businesses who don’t receive enough patronage by the community don’t stay in business. Wal-Mart is not going to build a store they don’t think will be profitable.
Now, I am not suggesting the universe boycott Wal-Mart. In general, I would say I support the company in things they do. Another big business in Logan would provide many economic benefits to the community. The increased employment positions alone would be a serious aid to the area, plus if it helped decrease some of the traffic in North Logan, I wouldn’t be opposed. Wal-Mart is also a company concerned about community. My impression of the building proposal is Wal-Mart was making many changes to beautify their store, understanding it’s in an area that serves as a gateway into the city. Representatives for Wal-Mart were at the planning commission meeting held last Thursday, addressing individual concerns expressed by citizens and explaining and answering questions related to those concerns. There were also suggestions on how flooding and other issues already present in the area could be improved with the building of Wal-Mart.
There is no way to accurately predict every impact a new development like this one will have on the community and it is foolish to try. Like any good business deal, there will be some give-and-take on both sides, but there is still going to be adherence to the golden rule of “give the people what they want.” But what do they want? It is time for the public to put their money where there mouth is and support the businesses they want to have in their city, Wal-Mart or otherwise.
-mikayliek@cc.usu.edu