Newcomers express their opinions

Editor,

We moved to Polson one-and-a-half years ago and have been following the Wal-Mart supercenter controversy since arriving. Please allow newcomers to make some observations.

First, given the economic realities of this area, it makes sense to support an enterprise that results in more jobs and lower prices for the community. Why do we have to drive to Missoula or Kalispell for lower prices and greater product selection?

Secondly, why do the citizens of Polson have a responsibility to subsidize the small business owners in town? Will these owners subsidize you when you have trouble buying a house, paying taxes, paying rent or saving for retirement?

These small business owners are very reluctant to help themselves by opening their stores in the evening, on holidays or the weekend, when it is more convenient for us to shop. Most of them don't seem to be very keen on beautifying Main Street in order to attract more customers.

Thirdly, the management of Super 1 seems to be leading the charge against a Wal-Mart supercenter. Isn't it ironic that some employees have left Super 1 to work at Wal-Mart, and will tell you that the pay and the benefits are far superior to those at Super 1?

Lastly, a Wal-Mart supercenter would attract more people from the surrounding towns into Polson to spend their money in restaurants and other small business in the area.

In a perfect world it would be nice to maintain the small-town atmosphere of Polson, however, if the citizens can't find decent-paying jobs or housing they can afford, what good is it?

Ed and Bunny Monaco

Polson