tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-113919192011-04-21T21:10:58.583-05:00A home for those who want ideas to keep their hometown from becoming "Anytown, Anywhere". News about Big Box stores and efforts from around the country to keep them from taking over your community.Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comBlogger1691100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-34026405521735306562009-03-17T14:28:00.003-05:002009-03-17T14:36:53.435-05:00

Last week in Salinas, California, city council members passed a big box ordinance limiting big box stores from dedicating more than 5 percent of its floor space to non-taxable items like food. This ordinance would block a super Wal-Mart from moving into an empty Home Depot building.In order to gain support for their point-of-view, Wal-Mart has confirmed that it has started a group to rally on

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-35642321163148298762008-05-03T14:16:00.000-05:002008-05-03T14:18:25.341-05:00

Wal-Mart announced late Thursday night that it would not build a 176,000-square-foot Supercenter at the corner of Peachtree Industrial Boulevard and Sugarloaf Parkway in Duluth.While every step of the stores rollout was greeted by crowds of protesters wearing red T-shirts and carrying "Stop Wal-Mart" signs, there was no indication that pressure from neighborhood group Smart Growth Gwinnett had an

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-91708556980533514452007-08-27T16:24:00.000-05:002007-08-27T16:32:21.945-05:00

There are two major threats to Mom and Pop stores across America, The Big Box and the virtual big box found on the Internet. Here is another example.Redding Christian Supply, which has sold books, music and other goods for some 30 years, suddenly closed this week."Music sales for us dropped 75 percent in the last three years," primarily because of Internet downloads, Yeager said."It was sudden,

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-80197353235165629582007-04-26T15:37:00.000-05:002007-04-26T15:41:58.049-05:00

It's a shame that some of Oshkosh's most disposable buildings are among its largest, the "big-box" commercial and retail cocoons that become instantly garish when vacated, their hulking shells and parking lots left to decay.On Sunday, The Northwestern presented a snapshot in time, spotlighting some of the most obvious vacant buildings and storefronts helping neither the city's tax base nor

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-84146864540696524862007-04-26T15:32:00.000-05:002007-04-26T15:36:56.134-05:00

From Rocky Mountain Outlook Banff may refuse to grant a business licence to Indigo Books in the face of a groundswell of public opposition to the corporate giant’s plan to set up shop in the national park townsite, putting its legal strength to the test once and for all.The Town will also host a town hall meeting, tentatively scheduled for May 8 at 6:30 p.m. in the Banff High School gym, to get

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-43261799934075980602007-04-26T15:22:00.000-05:002007-04-26T15:31:59.892-05:00

From the Garden IslandMore than 150 people filled council chambers and the first floor hallways of the historic County Building yesterday for a hearing on Kaua‘i County Council Bill 2203 — better known as the ‘big box bill.’While there appeared to be an equal number of Bill 2203 supporters and opponents showing their colors with purple and blue T-shirts, respectively, the overwhelming majority of

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-65615364248555793382007-03-30T14:30:00.000-05:002007-03-30T14:39:58.540-05:00

It's spring time and I thought the old Big Box Blows Blog needed a little sprucing up. I like to think that the "dots" motif will help you to connect the dots between what Big box development means to communities and how these developments can be remediated or reduced.

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-8606917883104830082007-03-30T14:21:00.000-05:002007-03-30T14:24:53.145-05:00

From Lynchburg, VA'Lynchburg’s Planning Commission on Wednesday recommended a change in city law that could keep Wal-Mart from building a new store on Old Forest Road without City Council approval.The commission unanimously recommended giving City Council the power to approve or reject new retail stores larger than 50,000 square feet, often called “big box” stores.City Council likely will

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-91842512241494085592007-03-21T16:37:00.000-05:002007-03-21T16:42:44.037-05:00

Big-box rules in Orange will be lax, foes sayDavid DamronOrlando Sentinel Staff WriterNew big-box stores will cause major headaches for their Orange County neighbors because elected leaders caved in to industry legal threats and are poised today to pass weaker rules for the retail giants, a residents group said Monday.A citizens task force crafted new rules for the mega-stores during the past

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-86760664419569918992007-03-21T16:29:00.000-05:002007-03-21T16:37:16.215-05:00

From Albuquerque, New MexicoWhy Big Boxes Are Bad, in a NutshellBy Emily Esterson , 3-14-07Last night, the Albuquerque Independent Business Alliance hosted Big Box Swindle author Stacy Mitchell at Page One Books. Mitchell has some chilling statistics about why big box stores are bad and how, little by little, they’ve eroded our economy and our environment. The AIBA turnout was pretty good and

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-35190547184137876222007-03-09T16:16:00.000-06:002007-03-09T16:32:57.737-06:00

From the East County News- Portland OregonThe vacant parcel of land across from Madison High School on Northeast 82nd Avenue has never been a highlight of the neighborhood, but in recent months, the site has become the focal point for an increasingly common struggle going on between local communities and large-scale developers.In 2006, the Smart Centres development company filed a formal

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-66500613027150615632007-03-05T16:44:00.000-06:002007-03-05T17:00:34.174-06:00

A story about a Big Box and what happened in Coconut Grove on YouTube.http://thegrovefirst.com/

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-21667835231996083652007-03-05T16:33:00.000-06:002007-03-05T16:36:44.796-06:00

The Bakersfield Planning Commission gave the green light to a new ordinance Thursday night that would crack down on so-called big-box buildings, as a way to help keep Bakersfield beautiful.“We think the ordinance is worthy of support,” said Dave Dmohowski, a representative for developers. “There may be other retail developers that think otherwise, but think it's worthy of your approval.”The

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-353751143773631342007-02-28T14:29:00.000-06:002007-02-28T14:35:43.459-06:00

If you stumbled on this site and don't quite know what a Big Box is:big-box store n. A large-format store, typically one that has a plain, box-like exterior and at least 75,000-100,000 square feet of retail space.Wikipedia does us all a favor by offering some research of Big Boxes for us.

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-45844323405575979932007-02-05T15:19:00.000-06:002007-02-05T15:43:56.825-06:00

Big Boxes are with us, but what happens when one closes down? Often a city and a real estate developer is left with a large amount of vacant commercial space which is often hard to market and denies tax dollars that the city needs. This is where Incubators come in.An Incubator is a facility that houses several businesses that share common cost and equipment. It features an organization of

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-53699918449012272902007-02-05T15:12:00.000-06:002007-02-05T15:18:42.618-06:00

Augusta: Critics rap inaction on 'big box' measureBy Mal LearySaturday, February 03, 2007 - Bangor Daily NewsBy Mal LearyCapitol News ServiceAUGUSTA - Last June as Gov. John Baldacci vetoed controversial legislation to set limits on the ability of residents to retroactively block or alter local zoning ordinances, he promised a study to develop a law he could support.But the governor has yet to

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1168623928510595732007-01-12T11:40:00.000-06:002007-01-12T11:45:31.323-06:00

Boxes are booted from plan for centerNord du Lac developers ink deal with foes, who will drop lawsuits Thursday, December 28, 2006By Charlie ChappleSt. Tammany bureau Members of Smart Growth Tammany and developers who want to build a $200 million retail center south of Covington have signed an agreement that will prohibit a Wal-Mart Supercenter, a Sam's Club and other "big box" stores in the

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1167251691029694502006-12-27T14:32:00.000-06:002006-12-27T14:34:51.180-06:00

Big box debate to resume in 2007New Mexico Business Weekly - December 20, 2006After narrowly beating back a proposed big box moratorium, the Duke City's retailers now have 120 days to try and shape the city's big box ordinance. The city will post its proposed big box ordinance on Dec. 22 and the next round of debate over it will begin. The Albuquerque City Council will vote on its adoption in

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1167251391199377822006-12-27T14:26:00.000-06:002006-12-27T14:29:58.830-06:00

Big-box retail a huge plusD. Murali The entry of big names into Indian retail is likely to help consumers as well as manufacturers, says Vijay Govindarajan of the Tuck School of Business. VIJAY GOVINDARAJAN, Director, Tuck's Center for Global Leadership. What are the implications of Wal-Mart tying up with Bharti, Reliance starting Fresh, and Carrefour planning to enter India? This is the

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1166651549168917732006-12-20T15:37:00.000-06:002006-12-20T15:52:30.410-06:00

Atlantic commission's new code blocks 'big box' storesBy DREW DIXONShorelines Staff WriterATLANTIC BEACH -The city has adopted a 60,000-square-foot limit on commercial buildings designed to block large "big box" stores like the Wal-Mart, which wants to build a Supercenter on Atlantic Boulevard. Monday's City Commission decision follows the lead of an identical ordinance the Neptune Beach City

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1166200412493546342006-12-15T10:29:00.000-06:002006-12-15T10:33:34.096-06:00

Debate over big boxes reignitesAmid Northcross Mall controversy, new rules for large stores are up for a vote.By Sarah CoppolaAMERICAN-STATESMAN STAFFMonday, December 04, 2006Like a scene out of "Groundhog Day," Austin seems to relive the same fight over big-box stores over and over again.It usually goes something like this: Developer threatens to build a big box; neighborhood groups freak

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1165520121220352702006-12-07T13:23:00.000-06:002006-12-07T13:35:21.833-06:00

As I have said in the past, this blog is not intended to "bash" Wal-Mart, but to point out how big box operations affect communities. Having said this, a blog called "Watching Wal-Mart" has been tracking information and offers these studies -SOS:Wal-Mart's Impact on CommunitiesI've been very interested lately in how Wal-Mart affects communities when it enters, specifically with regard to the

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1165010955246032542006-12-01T16:07:00.000-06:002006-12-01T16:09:15.326-06:00

Standing up to big-box retailers Friday, December 01, 2006JEFF BAKER The Oregonian What's the best way to stop a big-box retailer from locating in your neighborhood? Know your local zoning and land-use laws, said Stacy Mitchell, the author of "Big-Box Swindle: The True Cost of Mega-Retailers and the Fight for America's Independent Businesses" (Beacon Press, $24.95, 320 pages). "There are a number

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1164669088755077842006-11-27T17:05:00.000-06:002006-11-27T17:11:28.980-06:00

From the good people at Big Box Tool KitThe following detail strategies for rebuilding locally owned businesses and transforming your campaign into a proactive initiative to strengthen the local economy. Launch a Retail Incubator - Coming soon!Incubators provide low-cost start-up space and technical assistance to new entrepreneurs. Open a Community-Owned Store - Coming soon!Citizens in a

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1164232399723721252006-11-22T15:43:00.000-06:002006-11-22T15:53:21.206-06:00

The American Enterprise Institute for Public Policy Research is, according to Wikipedia, "a conservative think tank founded in 1943 whose stated mission is to support the "foundations of freedom - limited government, private enterprise, vital cultural and political institutions, and a strong foreign policy and national defense." The Institute is an independent, nonprofit organization supported

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1163705247016753322006-11-16T13:27:00.000-06:002006-11-16T13:27:27.203-06:00

If you can find the time, this is a good academic read.The Effects of Wal-Mart on Local Labor Markets

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1163704959007239132006-11-16T13:20:00.000-06:002006-11-16T13:22:44.750-06:00

Plan to limit 'big box' buildingsPlanners seek end to huge facilities on U.S. 17 BusinessBy Aliana RamosThe Sun NewsMURRELLS INLET - A draft ordinance to limit "big box" - or large-scale - buildings along U.S. 17 Business in Murrells Inlet could be ready as early as next month.Georgetown County Planning Director Boyd Johnson said he would put the issue before the Planning Commission today.County

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1163704832215326512006-11-16T13:16:00.000-06:002006-11-16T13:20:33.763-06:00

Big-box debateBy John Howard(published November 16th, 2006)Fighting for scant tax dollars, local governments are embroiled in disputes over the proliferation of so-called "big box" and "superstore" retailers across California--such as Wal-Mart, Target and Costco--that capture revenue but enflame anti-growth and organized-labor interests. Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger successfully walked a tightrope

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1163100180730642412006-11-09T13:19:00.000-06:002006-11-09T13:23:00.830-06:00

Officials vote to support big-box bylaw amendment By Alexandra PerloeSentinel & Enterprise Article Launched:11/07/2006 10:58:28 AM EST WESTMINSTER, MA -- Selectmen voted Monday to support a bylaw amendment that would let big-box retailers apply for special permits to build in town. The Planning Board voted last week not to endorse the amendment, but selectmen said such stores would generate

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1163099941942915912006-11-09T13:16:00.000-06:002006-11-09T13:19:02.596-06:00

Chamber survey finds mixed support for big-box retail storesBY ELAINE Walker, News editor Anacortes (WA) Chamber of Commerce members expressed little support for the largest style of big-box store in the central business district, but had mixed views about scaled-down stores, according to a survey of chamber membership completed last week.“It would appear that respondents feel strongly about

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1162855682957460002006-11-06T17:21:00.000-06:002006-11-06T17:28:03.546-06:00

This from "The State" South CarolinaPlan for Decker Boulevard: Thinking outside the big boxSmall businesses key to revitalization plan designed for Decker BoulevardBy JOY L. WOODSONjwoodson@thestate.comBig-box retail in the Decker Boulevard area is dead, county planners and officials say.Having reached that conclusion, county officials will unveil this week a plan aimed at infusing other kinds of

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1162503821733576042006-11-02T15:35:00.000-06:002006-11-02T15:43:45.373-06:00

SOS note: President Dwight Eisenhower's secretary of Defense was a fellow by the name of Charles Wilson who said, "What's good for General Motors is good for the country."--he was the former CEO of General Motors. In this day and age of the Big Box store, these corporations would like us to believe what's good for them is good for us. Here's what Target Corporation believes is good for them. Of

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1162418861348963102006-11-01T16:02:00.000-06:002006-11-01T16:07:41.833-06:00

Board: No support for big-box development amendment By Alexandra PerloeSentinel & Enterprise Article Launched:10/31/2006 11:07:29 AM EST WESTMINSTER -- The Planning Board voted Monday not to support a proposed bylaw amendment that would allow commercial or industrial development larger than 25,000 square feet to be built in town. The article will still be presented to voters, but will not be

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1162246726397392952006-10-30T16:18:00.000-06:002006-10-30T16:18:47.046-06:00

Kauai Mayor and Council oppose "Big Box" Retail storesOct 26, 2006 / CommunityAll Islands, KauaiWIth the recent opening of Cost-Co, the proposed expansion of Wal-Mart, a K-mart and a Home Depot all vying for shoppers in the Lihue area, local business and residents are decrying the loss of famous view planes and a drain on the local economy. Kauai County Council followed Baptiste’s lead this week

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1161893247749229532006-10-26T14:52:00.000-05:002006-10-26T15:07:28.283-05:00

It is interesting to note that politicians who have supported big box development in their states are up against the ropes. Robert Erhlich, Governor of Maryland comes to mind. It is also interesting to note that employers like Wal-Mart are essentially encouraging their employees to vote against candidates who have spoken in less than glowing terms about them.The larger issue remains that Big Box

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1160778612395631582006-10-13T17:23:00.000-05:002006-10-13T17:30:12.830-05:00

Oct. 10, 2006South Carolina Governor Fights Big-Box Subsidy for Cabela'sGov. Mark Sanford is pulling out all the stops in his bid to block a multi-million dollar subsidy for the huge outdoor retail chain Cabela's. In June, Sanford vetoed legislation passed by the South Carolina legislature that gave Cabela's a 50 percent break on sales and income taxes for a proposed store in North Charleston.

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1160302732929927202006-10-08T05:16:00.000-05:002006-10-08T05:18:53.366-05:00

Wal-Mart proposal a no-go in Central PointState Supreme Court upholds ruling against planned supercenterfor the Mail TribuneCENTRAL POINT — After nearly three years of public forums, city planning revisions and drawn-out court battles, the state Supreme Court has effectively put a nix on plans for a 207,000-square-foot Wal-Mart Supercenter near the corner of Pine Street and Hamrick Road.Central

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1160002966820067742006-10-04T18:02:00.000-05:002006-10-04T18:02:47.506-05:00

SUVs, buggies share county populated by farms, big-box storesNew and old worlds converge in Lancaster By Jennifer McMenamin and Nicole FullerBaltimore Sun reportersOriginally published October 3, 2006RONKS, Pa. // Just off the bustling highway that cuts through the rolling farmland and small villages of Lancaster County stretches a road that in many ways depicts the disparate faces of this

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1159814855876193382006-10-02T13:47:00.000-05:002006-10-02T13:47:36.700-05:00

Council Bans Big-Box Grocery Stores By Kurt HelinEditorWhile Long Beach has its share of big-box retail stores — Wal-Mart, Target, Kmart — none of those are the “superstores” that also carry groceries.Now, they never will be, and no future superstores will be built.Last week, the City Council passed a ban on big-box stores with food sales by a 7-2 vote. The City Council had asked the Planning

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1159381849290496022006-09-27T13:29:00.000-05:002006-09-27T13:30:50.936-05:00

MANOR TOWNSHIP, Pa. -- The zoning board in Manor Township, Lancaster County, rejected Wal-Mart's plan to build a store off Centerville Road.Residents cheered the township zoning board's decision during Monday night's meeting. The board decided Wal-Mart's application did not meet all the zoning requirements, specifically regarding traffic issues.Residents have been fighting Wal-Mart's plans to

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1159220107034903102006-09-25T16:31:00.000-05:002006-09-25T16:35:07.980-05:00

For the Sprawlbusting, Wake Up W******, Shop Local set, help is here...Sept. 25, 2006 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Stacy Mitchell, Institute for Local Self-Reliance 207-774-6792 - smitchell@ilsr.org BigBoxToolKit.com Launched to Help Grassroots Groups Counter Big-Box StoresThe Institute for Local Self-Reliance, which has helped grassroots groups in dozens of communities block the spread of

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1158084614909966232006-09-12T13:07:00.000-05:002006-09-12T13:10:15.436-05:00

Daley defends "big box" vetoBy Mickey CiokajloTribune staff reporterPublished September 12, 2006, 11:06 AM CDTWith dozens of protestors shouting nearby, Mayor Richard Daley gave an impassioned speech today to explain why he vetoed the big-box ordinance.Standing at the site of a proposed Target store on the Far South Side, Daley said no one protested when large retailers such as Wal-Mart and

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1158084267896227172006-09-12T13:00:00.000-05:002006-09-12T13:04:28.223-05:00

Big Box Ordinance Crushed Sam Graham-Felsen "This ordinance brings hope to thousands of people," declared Alderman Joseph Moore, lead sponsor of the Chicago Big Box ordinance, after the bill was passed 35 to 14 in the City Council in July. The ordinance-- which required Wal-Mart and other stores that net more than $1 billion annually and occupy more than 90,000 square feet, to pay a minimum of

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1157736844088657262006-09-08T12:32:00.000-05:002006-09-08T12:42:27.086-05:00

From: www.livingeconomies.org Global Companies: Local EconomiesThe last two decades saw sweeping changes take place in many American communities as big box retailers and strip malls in once green pastures replaced the traditional locally owned shops on Main Street. Meanwhile, many local governments spent tremendous amounts of time and money trying to attract multinational corporations to build

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1157472612108113902006-09-05T11:07:00.000-05:002006-09-05T11:10:12.756-05:00

Paramus thinks inside the big-box with a new ordinance Tuesday, August 29, 2006 By MERRY FIRSCHEINSTAFF WRITER PARAMUS -- The town of stores is limiting how large some can be -- and what they can look like.The Borough Council is expected to vote tonight on a measure heavy with restrictions on construction of supersize, or big-box, stores.While the borough already has a big-box ordinance, the new

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1157472322880474132006-09-05T11:04:00.000-05:002006-09-05T11:05:26.176-05:00

Bills aiming to fight 'big box' stores head to SchwarzeneggerSacramento Business Journal - August 31, 2006A pair of bills that would strengthen the ability of local governments to fight the entrance of "big box" retailers into their communities are headed to Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger. On Wednesday the Senate approved SB 1523, which would require retailers proposing stores greater than 100,000

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1155837268292711512006-08-17T12:52:00.000-05:002006-08-17T12:54:29.166-05:00

`Big-box' wage law to get outsider aidPublished August 16, 2006Supporters of Chicago's new "big-box" ordinance are expected to get support from officials of two cities with municipal laws that set pay at levels higher than the federal minimum wage.A special City Council hearing, scheduled for Thursday, will feature Santa Fe Mayor David Cross and San Francisco Supervisor Tom Ammiano, even as Mayor

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1155162525416527432006-08-09T17:27:00.000-05:002006-08-09T17:28:45.480-05:00

City: Big-box issue should not slow projectERIC SAGARATucson Citizen Controversial plans to build a big-box store on Tucson's South Side should not hold up the development of a research park and residential areas nearby, the City Council ruled Tuesday night.Plans to build a shopping center that includes a big-box store should continue, but with the understanding that the city ordinance banning

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1155162349780242492006-08-09T17:24:00.000-05:002006-08-09T17:25:49.856-05:00

'Big box' the big issueCity council hears ordinance that would ban large retail developmentBy Marcus HathcockThe Sandy Post, 53 minutes ago The nationwide controversy regarding “big box” retailers gets local as the Sandy City Council debates an ordinance that would keep Wal-Mart, Target, Home Depot and similar stores out of town.Ordinance 2006-03 – which will be addressed at the regular council

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1155162194863814992006-08-09T17:21:00.000-05:002006-08-09T17:23:15.343-05:00

Lowe's Responds to Chicago 'Big-Box' Law © 2006 The Associated Press CHICAGO — Lowe's has put its plans for two home-improvement centers in Chicago on hold in the wake of the city's new "big-box" minimum-wage ordinance, following similar steps taken by Wal-Mart and Target, a developer and alderman said.David Katz of Northbrook-based A&R Management Inc., which manages a shopping center where one

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1153999052868063542006-07-27T06:17:00.000-05:002006-07-27T06:17:41.500-05:00

Chicago requires big-box stores to pay 'living wage'CHICAGO, Illinois (AP) -- Brushing aside warnings from Wal-Mart Stores Inc., City Council approved an ordinance Wednesday that makes Chicago the biggest city in the nation to require big-box retailers to pay a "living wage.""It's trying to get the largest companies in America to pay decent wages," said council member Toni Preckwinkle.The

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1153933060630690722006-07-26T11:56:00.000-05:002006-07-26T11:57:41.693-05:00

Target Threatens to Close Chicago Stores If Wage Proposal Passes JULY 18, 2006 -- CHICAGO -- Target Stores is threatening to close all of its stores here if City Council passes a proposed new minimum wage ordinance.If passed, the ordinance could jeopardize plans for three new Target stores and it could cause the Minneapolis-based company to close its existing stores in the city, according to

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1153834835978895502006-07-25T08:38:00.000-05:002006-07-25T08:40:36.093-05:00

Wal-Mart opponents vow fight By Gregg Hennigan The Gazette IOWA CITY — If Wal-Mart still plans to expand in Iowa City, as it has promised, then it hasn’t heard the last from Gary Sanders. Neither has the city. ‘‘Anything that involves any action by a governmental body is something we could take a look at from a legal point of view,’’ Sanders, 59, of Iowa City, said Monday. Sanders led

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1153834472111154882006-07-25T08:33:00.000-05:002006-07-25T08:34:45.396-05:00

Wal-Mart: Part One ends, but prepare for sequelDI Editorial BoardPosted: 7/25/06After pulling out of its $3.1 million deal for 21.7 acres of city land, the Bentonville, Ark.-based multinational quietly hissed revenge: "There's not a lot of developable land in Iowa City, so it might take a while," said Wal-Mart spokesman Ryan Horn, but "we want to be able to bring [our customers] a nice, new

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1153600128567004972006-07-22T15:26:00.000-05:002006-07-24T15:17:41.230-05:00

SoS Note: This is like a temporary restraining order, but it is welcome news for Iowa City.Friday, July 21, 2006Wal-Mart backs out of land dealBy Mike McWilliamsIowa City Press-Citizen Wal-Mart will not build a supercenter as planned off Ruppert Road in south Iowa City, company spokesman Ryan Horn said Friday. However, the Bentonville, Ark.-based retail giant still plans to expand here.“Basically

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1153518661679265192006-07-21T16:44:00.000-05:002006-07-21T16:51:02.583-05:00

SoS: This is an e-mail from Gary Sanders of Iowa city Stop Wal-Mart which adds intrigue as to why Iowa City issued a permit to build on a flood plain when its Board of Adjustment did not allow it. On June 8, 2006 assistant [Iowa City] city attorney Mitch Behr sent the Board of Adjustment a memo which states in the first paragraph: " The Iowa City ordinances do not require or provide for approval

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1153492933459117202006-07-21T09:38:00.000-05:002006-07-21T09:43:10.300-05:00

Friday, July 21, 2006Wal-Mart can build, but will they?Retailer receives floodplain permitIowa City Press-CitizenA recent permit will allow Wal-Mart to build a supercenter on Iowa City's south side, but officials are unsure if they will build there."We're being asked to buy a piece of land at commercial rates with a risk of not being able to use that land," Wal-Mart spokesman Ryan Horn said

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1153422739556207572006-07-20T13:59:00.000-05:002006-07-20T14:12:28.803-05:00

From SoS:On July 12, 2006 Wal-Mart applied to the Iowa City Zoning Board of Adjustment for a special exception because Wal-Mart to build in the flood plain. Iowa City's Board of Adjustment denied (by a vote of 4-0) a request by Wal-Mart, Inc. to fill-in the flood plain located on the property.On 7/17/06 an application for a flood plain permit was made by Wal-Mart. It is unclear as to whether the

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1150236059726787612006-06-13T16:49:00.000-05:002006-06-13T17:01:00.170-05:00

SOS will be on a little hiatus. Probably that is the state of things this summer. So Check back for stories more hopeful than these:Zoning allows big-box stores Ballston Town Council rejects cap on building size that would have banned Wal-MartBy CHRISTEN DEMING, Staff writer Click byline for more stories by writer. First published: Tuesday, June 13, 2006BALLSTON -- The Town Council approved a

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1148655353735640822006-05-26T09:48:00.000-05:002006-05-26T09:55:53.973-05:00

Debating the ‘Big Box’ effect for AustinWest Siders weigh in on proposed city ordinance targeting large retailersBy MEGHAN STREIT5/24/2006 10:00:00 PM Austin Weekly NewsResidents, business owners and community leaders from the West Side, where Chicago’s first Wal-Mart is scheduled to open this summer, spoke out Thursday against the so-called "Big Box Retail" ordinance currently before the City

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1148654818709914622006-05-26T09:36:00.000-05:002006-05-26T09:46:59.270-05:00

SOS Note: It is clear the author of this piece is "spinning" the story in a pro-big-box way, but he does bring out some interesting facts.Are big-box stores truly a blessing?By Liang Hongfu(China Daily)Updated: 2006-05-26 06:35Is Wal-Mart a good thing?As Wal-Mart and other huge stores are sprouting up in communities throughout the United States, more and more Americans are beginning to question

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1148396542608953172006-05-23T09:57:00.000-05:002006-05-23T10:02:22.740-05:00

Empty Big Box Stores an Eye SoreMay 22, 2006 08:53 PM CDTBoise, Idaho - The new building Cabela's will be calling home is the old Costco store on Franklin and Milwaukee, a site that has sat idle for years. So what happens when big retailers come in, build enormous facilities, and then leave? The city of Boise says it takes action immediately trying to fill the space left behind."Buildings are

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1148396138674293102006-05-23T09:48:00.000-05:002006-05-23T09:55:46.706-05:00

Big box battle shaping up as Hercules v. GoliathJUSTIN M. NORTONAssociated PressSAN FRANCISCO - Wal-Mart Stores Inc. is known for its hardball tactics, but the little city of Hercules has come up with some muscle of its own in a bid to keep the big-box retailer out.The City Council in the affluent Bay Area suburb will hold a hearing Tuesday to consider using the power of eminent domain to seize

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1147891730656408012006-05-17T13:48:00.001-05:002006-05-17T13:48:50.800-05:00

Central Point will consider 'big box' limitBy Buffy Pollockfor the Mail TribuneCENTRAL POINT — Attempting to avoid future court battles like one heading into its third year between the city and Wal-Mart, City Council members have reviewed proposed municipal code changes that would place size limits on big-box retailers.Directed by council members in January, city planners worked to modify

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1146860623633563532006-05-05T15:23:00.000-05:002006-05-05T15:23:43.813-05:00

Think Outside ‘Big Box,’ Say City AldermenEdward Burke (14th), chairman of the Chicago City Council’s Finance Committee, plans to pass a “big box” ordinance in the city in the near future.The committee is currently in the process of considering three different ordinances regarding big box retailers like Wal-Mart. Two of the ordinances were introduced by Ald. Joe Moore (49th), one in 2004 and the

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1146859029998240742006-05-05T14:47:00.000-05:002006-05-05T14:57:10.646-05:00

City panel: Toss out big-box billBy HENRY M. LOPEZ The New Mexican May 5, 2006The city Planning Commission rejected a proposal that would have required developers of retail stores larger than 100,000 square feet to conduct economic-impact studies on their projects.The proposed legislation will move on to the City Council for consideration. The commission -- which advises the council on matters

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1145311905242803552006-04-17T17:10:00.000-05:002006-04-17T17:11:47.460-05:00

Ravalli County adopts zoning to restrict big box storesBy Tyler Christensen - Missoulian - 04/15/06MISSOULA (LEE) — Following a public hearing in Hamilton Middle School’s roomy gymnasium a venue needed to accommodate the crush of people who turned out the Ravalli County commissioners approved interim zoning regulations capping the size of retail stores at 60,000 square feet.At least 1,000 people

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1145311697821749042006-04-17T17:04:00.000-05:002006-04-17T17:08:18.243-05:00

Planning Against Wal-MartMontana Community Rallies to Cap Big-Box StoresBy Tad Sooter, 4-13-06Ravalli County Commissioners, after moving meeting venues twice to accommodate a crowd of some 1,300 people, passed a resolution Wednesday to limit the size of new retail stores in the county.The crowd was overwhelmingly in support of the 60,000-square-foot cap on stores, although some did speak in favor

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1144952719673627082006-04-13T13:13:00.000-05:002006-04-13T13:26:22.790-05:00

SOS Note: On Monday this week the Judge in a lawsuit filed against the City of Iowa City to sell public land to Wal-Mart was decided. It should also be said that this is the reason that "Big Box" ordinances are important. The selling of public land, and particularly land that has sensitive areas, such as flood plains will continue because cities are cash strapped and short sighted. Commercial

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1144951917198077662006-04-13T13:10:00.000-05:002006-04-13T13:28:45.940-05:00

Wiscasset Citizens Fight For Big Box MoratoriumStory date: 04/12/2006By Greg FosterPossible negative impact of big box retail development in Wiscasset has come to light at least in the mind of group of citizens who have been pushing for a moratorium on it.To accomplish that, their aim is to put the issue before the people for a vote on the June 13 ballot for the first town warrant referendum, and

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1144352474646656382006-04-06T14:38:00.000-05:002006-04-06T14:41:15.890-05:00

Court of Appeal Upholds City’s Restrictions on ‘Big Box’ StoresJustices Reject Wal-Mart Challenge, Say City May Use Police Power to Disperse CommerceBy KENNETH OFGANG, Staff Writer/Appellate CourtsThe Fifth District Court of Appeal yesterday affirmed a local zoning ordinance that bars the development of “big box” retail stores with full service grocery departments.The court affirmed a ruling by a

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1144181967212598062006-04-04T15:13:00.000-05:002006-04-04T15:19:27.490-05:00

From: Wal-Mart to Add Jobs in Struggling AreasBy MARCUS KABEL, AP Business WriterWal-Mart Stores Inc., often accused by critics of harming local businesses, announced Tuesday it plans to build more than 50 stores in struggling urban neighborhoods over the next two years to create jobs and help small establishments.Chief Executive Lee Scott said Tuesday the new stores would generate between 15,000

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1144080350886662412006-04-03T10:57:00.000-05:002006-04-03T11:05:51.016-05:00

SOS note: Big Box stores are referred to as "non-smart" growth, in-fill housing development is considered to be "smart-growth"--this article begs the question--which is which?Neighbors resist another big-box condoA seven-story loft project proposed for Fort Lauderdale has drawn intense opposition from neighborhood residents, but the developer remains determined.BY SAMUEL P. NITZEResidents of Fort

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1144079772360845832006-04-03T10:53:00.000-05:002006-04-03T10:56:12.743-05:00

Brattleboro takes up big-box cap plan againApril 3, 2006By DANIEL BARLOW Southern Vermont BureauBRATTLEBORO — Members of a Planning Commission subcommittee are hoping the third time's a charm as they submit an ordinance to control the growth of so-called "big box" store development.All new commercial construction greater than 50,000 square feet would need to be located within the Putney Road

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1143748944699516242006-03-30T13:58:00.000-06:002006-03-30T14:02:25.013-06:00

'Big-box' retail shelved while rules toughenedBuilding ban, which backers say may be state's first, buys time to strengthen rulesDavid Damron Sentinel Staff WriterMarch 29, 2006Orange County commissioners on Tuesday temporarily put the lid on new "big-box" retail stores in unincorporated parts of the county.They voted 6-1 to stop approving the megastores until tougher rules are in place to deal

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1143495891785776892006-03-27T15:44:00.000-06:002006-03-27T15:44:57.146-06:00

See the points in bold below --these are good questions for any community to ask.Group has some pointed questions on big box benefitsby Mike Morrow, 3/27/2006A group that calls itself Fortuna First doesn’t believe all the candidates for positions on the City Council are putting Fortuna first. In fact, says Sylvia Jutila, one of the group’s organizers, there are at least a dozen issues that need

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1143145395694095572006-03-23T14:17:00.000-06:002006-03-23T14:23:15.933-06:00

Note: Below author Gary Sanders and his group Iowa City Stop Wal-Mart are embroiled in a lawsuit with the city based, in part, on their decision to sell 54 acres of public land to Wal-Mart.Questions about Wal-MartAs we await Judge Potterfield's decision in our lawsuits to prevent the city of Iowa City from rezoning and selling land to Wal-Mart for a Supercenter, there are several aspects of the

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1143047829259083802006-03-22T11:14:00.000-06:002006-03-22T11:17:09.413-06:00

Mar. 20, 2006Vermont Senate Passes Big-Box BillBy a wide margin, the Vermont Senate endorsed a bill that would require any proposed big-box store in the state to undergo an economic and community impact analysis. The analysis would provide local officials with information about a store's projected effects on employment, public costs, and downtown vitality before they decide whether to approve or

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1143047446112944592006-03-22T11:08:00.000-06:002006-03-22T11:14:30.406-06:00

Civil Rights Leader Peddles Hope in a Big BoxAndrew Young is trying to smooth Wal-Mart's urban path, but critics say the chain exploits.By Jenny Jarvie, Times Staff WriterMarch 19, 2006ATLANTA — When the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. wanted to present the case for civil rights to the white establishment, he turned to Andrew Young.Forty years later, Young, a silver-tongued civil rights leader who

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1142617971321267072006-03-17T11:52:00.000-06:002006-03-17T11:52:51.456-06:00

County looks at rules for big box storesThe location of future big box stores could come under greater scrutiny under a decision by the Alachua County Commission Thursday night to review current regulations for possible changes. The move was something of a compromise since commissioners declined on a 2-2 vote to ask for a state review of a comprehensive plan amendment for the proposal.Sought was

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1142617492865542012006-03-17T11:43:00.000-06:002006-03-17T11:44:53.183-06:00

Developer sues C.P. over big-box storesBY ALLISON FASHEKafashek@nwitimes.com219.662.5333This story ran on nwitimes.com on Friday, March 17, 2006 12:32 AM CSTCROWN POINT A developer has filed suit against the city, accusing officials of enacting an ordinance controlling big-box development to prohibit a Wal-Mart from coming to Crown Point.Lauth Property Group, LLC, and Crown Point Partners, LLC,

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1142355056679443962006-03-14T10:39:00.000-06:002006-03-14T10:50:57.063-06:00

Note: This is an interesting story because it shows one type of reuse for the "big box"and, while I often reflect on the effect of big box stores, other big box efforts such as hotels, hospitals, and churches/synagogues/mosques leave a big footprint too. ~SoSHarvest Bible buys 53rd Street big boxBy Deirdre Cox BakerThe bustling 53rd and Utica Ridge Road area of Davenport — home to a multiplex

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1142018218606205532006-03-10T13:11:00.000-06:002006-03-10T13:17:02.403-06:00

Ocassionally, I learn interesting facts. This one is from " Symposium 2005: Breaking Big Boxes: Learning from the Horse Whisperers" by Dwight H. Merriam"Wal-Mart, the store many people love to hate, is simply without equal. Although it did not do quite as well on "Black Friday" 2004—the day after Thanksgiving when retailers are in the black (making money) as the year-end sales kick in—on Black

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1141945657742395182006-03-09T16:58:00.000-06:002006-03-09T17:07:37.833-06:00

A typical big box: 'A large windowless rectangular single story building of at least 100,000 square feet with expansive parking out front, little landscaping, giant signage, extended hours and a lot of lighting.'" --Lincoln County, Maine Planner Bob Faunce

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1141944709602180772006-03-09T16:46:00.000-06:002006-03-09T16:51:49.876-06:00

PTC has new game plan for big box storesThu, 03/09/2006 - 4:09pmBy: John MunfordBan lifted, but special Council approval now necessaryDespite lifting its previous ban on “big box” stores larger than 32,000 sq. ft., Peachtree City is strengthening its ability to fend off legal challenges over such stores, officials said.The City Council voted last week to adopt a new stringent process for

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1141847698840133762006-03-08T13:45:00.000-06:002006-03-08T13:54:59.030-06:00

Son of Sam Note: "Footprinting" is a buzzword to watch. In this case it means the amount of energy used/greenhouse gases produced by a person, entity, or product. For more, check this out.Investors Persuade Big-Box Retailers to Disclose Energy and Climate Performance GreenBiz.comBOSTON, Mass., March 6, 2006In response to shareholder requests, two leading big-box retailers and the nation's largest

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1141847060228316462006-03-08T13:41:00.000-06:002006-03-08T13:44:20.596-06:00

From: Peachtree City rewrites law on big box storesBy KEVIN DUFFY The Atlanta Journal-ConstitutionPublished on: 03/09/06Peachtree City has opened the door to more huge retail spaces known as big boxes.It replaced its big box ban with a law that allows the outsize projects if they meet certain conditions.The change, about a year in the making, came about as a result of the legal fight over the

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1141767119275107522006-03-07T15:08:00.000-06:002006-03-08T13:56:05.693-06:00

Gary Sanders is the chair of Iowa City Stop Wal-Mart and I respectfully quote his letter to the NY Times."Michael Barbaro writes in 'Wal-Mart Enlists Bloggers in a Publicity Campaign' (NYT March 7, p. C1) that 'Wal-Mart's blogging initiative is part of a balooning public relations campaign...to help Wal-Mart as two groups, Wal-Mart Watch and Wake Up Wal-Mart aggressively prod it to change.' The

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1141245018600051652006-03-01T14:17:00.000-06:002006-03-01T14:30:18.743-06:00

Exerpted from Inside EPA's big blue boxThe debate surrounding East Palo Alto's IKEA storePosted Tue Feb. 28, 13:52:12 PST 2006By Loretta Shen of Verde MagazineKaela FoxSenior Brianna Clay peruses an IKEA Catalog.Occupying 10.5 acres of land, the IKEA in East Palo Alto did not arrive quietly or inconspicuously.The 389,000 square foot structure is not only big, but a striking shade of blue as well,

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1141243987881195002006-03-01T14:11:00.000-06:002006-03-01T14:13:08.283-06:00

Great Falls to Wal-Mart: One Big Box is EnoughBy Dana Green, 3-01-06When is there just too much Wal-Mart?For Great Falls, apparently the answer is: Two is one too many.The city planning board recommended denying annexation on a 50-acre parcel on the edge of town, where the giant corporation hoped to build a 203,000-square-foot Supercenter.Their decision hinged on language in the city’s newly

Garkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14273961097217022110noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11391919.post-1141143311781405332006-02-28T10:14:00.000-06:002006-02-28T10:18:11.433-06:00

Exerpted from: Supes to vote on store limits'Big box' developers would have to pay for economic impact studiesBy Michelle Maitre, STAFF WRITER Inside Bay AreaOAKLAND — After their first attempt was derailed by a lawsuit, Alameda County officials will take another shot at regulating big-box stores in unincorporated areas.The new proposal would allow big-box "superstores" in limited areas zoned

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February 22, 2006Empty Wal-Mart Gets Pimped OutPimped out in the Pimp My Ride sense of the term, not like Pimping out a Ho...Anyway, Omaha blog Against The Grain sends us a picture of the abandoned Wal-Mart in Omaha, Nebraska featured in our header. A fresh coat of paint can sure go far in making an empty and decrepit big-box look empty and decrepit.

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NJ Residents ask mall to shrink 'big box' Sunday, February 26, 2006By MERRY FIRSCHEINSTAFF WRITERPARAMUS -- Residents opposed to the construction of large standalone stores at the Bergen Mall are now asking the developer to not only move one building farther from their back yards, but also to make it smaller.A representative of Vornado, owners of the shopping center, however, said such changes

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Big-box ordinance bid shot downCouncilman finds no support from colleagues for restrictions after Wal-Mart's withdrawal.By Loretta Kalb -- Bee Staff WriterPublished 2:15 am PST Sunday, February 26, 2006Councilman Jim Cooper, buoyed by Wal-Mart's decision to withdraw a Supercenter proposal for Elk Grove, made a pitch Wednesday night for an ordinance to restrict big-box retailers.But when he put

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Downtown Camden changing--Big-box retailers squeezing out longtime stores, which are being replaced by upscale venturesBy KRISTY EPPLEY RUPONStaff WriterWhen several downtown Camden businesses announced their closings in recent months, Jim Burns started getting phone calls.People had assumed his 105-year-old hardware store on Broad Street was among them.So Burns took out a small ad in the local

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FDIC to mull Wal-Mart Bank applicationJim FreerThe Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. on Thursday said it will hold public hearings in April on Wal-Mart Stores' application for federal deposed insurance on its proposed Wal-Mart Bank. A South Florida Congresswoman has been among those calling for the FDIC to deny the retailer's request. The FDIC said hold hearings, April 10-11, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.,

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Retail real estate growingUpscale supermarkets, big box stores and town centers are driving retail development on the PeninsulaBY JOY BUCHANAN 247-4744February 23, 2006 NORFOLK -- Hampton Roads retail market outperformed all previous years in 2005 as national chains and grocery stores, including Farm Fresh, filled in vacant buildings and many of the region's cities developed increasingly popular

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Testimony wraps in Wal-Mart trialsBy the Press-CitizenTestimony has wrapped in two lawsuits against the city of Iowa City, designed to stop construction of a new Wal-Mart Supercenter off of Highway 1.Judge Amanda Potterfield heard testimony for both cases this morning. The group Iowa City Stop Wal-Mart has filed suit against both the Iowa City Board of Adjustment and against the city council in

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Thursday, February 23, 2006Patience called for lawsuits against cityThe issue• Stop Wal-Mart will have both its lawsuits against Iowa City government heard today.We suggest• While the lawsuits might have seemed to be quixotic at the beginning, Stop Wal-Mart's success in the courts suggests that its complaints are valid enough to bear serious consideration. It's in the best interests of the city

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'Big box' law enacted by Cottage GroveBy Cliff MillerCorrespondent for The Capital TimesCOTTAGE GROVE - Nobody is proposing a "big box" discount store in the village, but a newly adopted ordinance is aimed at preventing it from happening."We wanted to nip in the bud the idea of these 150,000- to 200,000-square-foot super stores," said Village President Ken Dahl. "We want to keep a more small town

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