It seems that the great simmering Wal-Mart Supercenter
controversy has been plaguing this community for a decade. And, as
is the case after most protracted political battles wrap up, we’re
most grateful for the end.
It seems that the great simmering Wal-Mart Supercenter controversy has been plaguing this community for a decade. And, as is the case after most protracted political battles wrap up, we’re most grateful for the end.
The City Council approved the first Wal-Mart supercenter in northern California on a 5-2 vote Monday. Thankfully, the Council did not decide to re-open the public hearings, or change direction yet again and open the door for an updated economic impact study or, heaven forbid, put the Wal-Mart Supercenter proposal to a vote of the people. The Council is elected to make tough decisions, not foist those off to the ballot box when the going gets a little rough.
Though we’re not wildly cheering about a new Wal-Mart store in town, we don’t believe “the sky will be falling” in Gilroy soon either.
Much to the chagrin of the labor union political machine, the truth is that Wal-Mart provides a “product” many people will embrace: low prices. Those who choose to shop price over service and convenience, do so for good reasons.
For them, the Wal-mart Supercenter will be a godsend. For many others in Gilroy, the center will merely be an inconvenience and a place to avoid.
Will residents in the northwest quad, for example, travel across town through umpteen traffic lights in order to save 5 cents a pound on bananas? No. The truth is those shoppers are thinking in an opposite direction – they’re contemplating signing up for grocery delivery from Safeway via the web to save precious time.
Consumers who are convinced that Wal-Mart represents the “evil empire” can choose not to shop there.
We’re just glad the Council finally made the call.
