Community Corner

Walmart Supporters Speak Up

Although outnumbered by opponents, a few Walmart supporters spoke in favor of the store proposed for 1000 Skokie Blvd.

A few people made public statements in support of the Northbrook proposed for 1000 Skokie Blvd. in Northbrook, during the Plan Commission's second public input meeting on Monday night. 

The night's first speaker supported the store, recalling his experience visiting nearby Walmart stores without feeling in danger of crime or facing traffic jams in the area. 

The audience laughed during parts of his statement and boo'd the speaker when he finished. 

"If you can't be respectful, you will be asked to leave," Marcia Franklin, the plan commission's chair, told the audience. "I know people here have very strong opinions, but let everyone have their say, please."

Another Walmart supporter said shopping at the big box store is a choice, that residents should have. She added that Northbrook's foreclosure rate is an indicator that there are low-income residents who could benefit from the store's inexpensive merchandise. 

The number of Walmart opponents still greatly outnumbered the supporters on Monday night. 

Watch the video above to see one supporter share her thoughts on the store and the community's attitude about Walmart. 

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