EDITOR:
I am pleased that Walmart is coming to town. I, like so many others, already shop at Walmart. So, how will this affect my life? I will no longer have to drive over 30 miles (not everyone lives in town) to buy housewares, cleaning supplies, clothing, school supplies, paper products, small appliances, CDs, DVDs, computer supplies, TVs, radios, toys, sporting goods and many others items that aren't available in town or for which we pay a premium if they are.
But, as large as Walmart is, they don't have everything and they don't provide the service that our local vendors do. For example, I will still shop at the Carson Valley Garden & Ranch Center; because, they are knowledgeable, helpful people. Walmart doesn't compete with that. Will I buy my tires at Les Schwab?
Probably not, but I don't now. I buy them at Walmart or Costco. Because, the price is right and I know I can get service, if needed, at any Walmart or Costco across the country when I travel.
Now, with Walmart in town, I will no longer need to consider Costco. Because, I would rather my sales taxes stay at home.
People who buy tires at Les Schwab do so for their own reasons and they will continue to do so. You only have to look to Carson City to see the truth in that. Not only are there two Walmarts and a Costco in Carson City, there are are two Les Schwabs and a Big O. Apparently, not everybody buys tires at Walmart. So fear not, the arrival of Walmart does not mean local vendors can't be competitive. And, that's good for all of us. Yes, the arrival of Walmart will attract other businesses to town. Depending on your point of view, you may think that is a bad thing. However, I think it's a good thing.
Then, maybe, some of the many vacant retail and office spaces in town (that are painfully obvious to anyone driving Highway 395) will find a taker. Some of which may even be new local businesses.
Another thing to consider, many out-of-towners are driving through our town to reach Walmart in Carson City.
Now, they won't have to. And, while they are here, they will eat lunch at a local restaurant, buy gas at a local gas station, drop a quarter in a local slot machine, buy an ice cream cone from a local ice cream parlor, order a latte from a local coffee shop and even shop at some local vendors. Oh, my. Some may think that's a good thing too. I do.
Bill McCoy
Gardnerville
