Wednesday, December 29, 2010

Valmark belongs in LI zone


Who decides how many restaurants Ketchum has? The market does. Why shouldn't market forces determine the same for grocery stores?

I believe Roxy's and Atkinsons' are going to serve the same customer base. The "next generation" Valmark store will compete with Albertsons in Hailey, where the locals shop. Most of our neighbors shop at Albertsons, so allowing the Valmark store will save them gas and travel time.

Why not let the public decide where they want to buy their groceries? If Ketchum can't support three grocery stores, is it not possible that Atkinsons' would close? Then, wouldn't it be better for the core area retailers because they would attract more customers because of more parking spaces?

Remember also what the public said at the Planning and Zoning Commission hearings on the grocery store subject. Many said they go to the grocery store for groceries and then go home. Other shopping is most often a separate trip, but they get frustrated with the lack of parking near the retailers.

Has anyone thought that the comprehensive plan may be hindering growth? The plan took away parking in the surrounding area, pushing potential customers out. Ultimately, the public will be picking winners and losers, not short-term tactical manipulations by the City Council.

The small shops and restaurants do make our town unique, but some close every year and new ones take their place. That's what happens in a free-market economy.

Presenting the argument that Walmart-type stores would be attracted to Ketchum is creating a "straw man." They would never be interested in our area. Our customer base is too small.

It appears the "Save Ketchum's Community Vision" is only interested in scare tactics. Why aren't their names and funding listed?

The Light Industrial zone has every type of business, except a grocery store. This is where Valmark deserves to be able to build. That would allow adequate parking, and additionally, the money saved could be spent at the core-area retailers.

Bill Stratton

Gerry Wilson

Steve Sofro

Bob Weingaertner

Dick Couch

Rick Flickinger

Mike Murphy

Terry Maher

Sam East




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