The concern about some citizens in Chatham about the Wal-Mart is in regards to a possible negative impact on existing businesses. From my viewpoint, it seems that Chatham businesses aren't getting the notice as they should. Wal-Mart could be used to help existing businesses.
Here are some things we could ask of Wal-Mart , to help our community's businesses:
- Have their security team patrol the neighborhood as well. At certain times, one person in a car could go into a side street & an alley, then circle back to Wal-Mart. In other words, have them look out for the neighborhood without comprimising security at Wal-Mart. They could also set up cameras (with residents' permission) to help secure the sorrounding neighborhod.
- In the check out line, have extended racks that not only sell stuff (like the typical candy), but also have racks in between that hold brochures & menus of local restaurants & businesses. The first few months may have long lines, and that time could be used helping customers look at other businesses. In addition, there could also be video commercials as well (using a monitor system that Jewel uses)
- Either fund, or have their foundation help find appropriate grant funding, to temporarily sponsor a shuttle bus that goes (of course) to Wal-Mart, but to several other businesses, such as Captain's Hard Time Dining, Army & Lou's, Mather's, Soul Vegtarian East, and others. Navy Pier has such a shuttle. Doesn't our neighborhood have a bigger economic need for shuttles than Navy Pier?
- Have Wal-Mart work with Univeristy of Chicago to use their buses to drive U. of Chicago students & staff out to Wal-Mart (adding money to the area as well as diversity). The 83rd street exit is perfect for those U of Chicago area residents who choose to drive instead.
The Chatham Business Association supports the Wal-Mart; could they and others use these ideas?
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