Why should all residents of Gresham should be concerened?

Many residents who live in areas outside of the Southwest and Centennial neighborhoods don't feel they need to get involved with the fight against Wal-Mart. "It isn't going in my neighborhood," they say.

Don't bet on it.

Information showing that Wal-Mart has looked to lease/purchase property in another area in the city has already come to light. Wal-Mart has denied this; however, the city's urban renewal commission just out bid them on the former Fred Meyer location in Rockwood. Had the commission not stepped in at the least minute, the property might now belong to Wal-Mart.

The entire city needs to work together to fight Wal-Mart. If the company is denied at one location, they are just going to find a new location. The next time it just might be next to your home.

We also need to get rules in place NOW in regards to "bix box" stores so that the residents and city council will have more say over such businesses. These new rules would not affect the 182nd/Powell location, but it would work for other locations.

If you want to help out, there are three things you can do:

1. Submit your comments to the city.
2. Volunteer with Gresham First.
3. Donate to Gresham First.