La Plata residents made their message loud and clear during a Tuesday evening public hearing regarding the annexation for the proposed Wal-Mart Supercenter — they do not want it there. Some residents even said there would be a political price to pay if the La Plata Town Council approves the annexation for the Wal-Mart Supercenter.
In order to be built, the La Plata Town Council must approve three petitions requesting annexation in La Plata. After that is done, the Charles County Commissioners must change the zoning from Community Commercial Zone to a Commercial Highway Zone because of current “big box lot” laws.
“I just don’t understand how it will benefit the people of La Plata,” Mary Beth Chandler said. “The Wal-Mart we have suits the needs of (9,500 residents) in town.”
“Wal-Mart will generate tax revenue but it will take away revenue from existing stores,” John Etchison said. “There are 355 dark Wal-Marts nationwide. There are no agreements in effect (to build Kohl’s or Marshalls) and this will reduce home values.”
Another resident said the process for a referendum vote is in effect and that the developers should pay for a special election and accept the result since the election would cost the Town of La Plata a lot of money.
“This would help limited income folks,” Shari Stackhouse, reading a letter from another resident, said. “It is in evitable that this will happen.”
According to some residents, petitions to hold a referendum are already in process with more than 1,800 signatures. Many residents who spoke believe the process is destined for a referendum.
