Wal-Mart to locate in Jefferson?

Thursday, September 20. 2012

City of Jefferson officials met with Wal-Mart representatives Tuesday in the first step to bring the store to Jefferson. City manager John Ward met with representatives from Wolverton & Associates Tuesday where potential plans for the property on Old Pendergrass Road and the Damon Gause Bypass were revealed.
“They are representing Wal-Mart and they indicated that they plan to apply for rezoning on a portion of the property off Old Pendergrass Road & US 129 bypass,” Ward said. “We had a discussion about their plans, saw an initial site plan and then discussed dates.”
The company plans to submit the request in November for the December Planning Commission meeting, which would result in a final decision on zoning in January 2013 by the Jefferson City Council.
“While they will not leave any copies of the draft site plan until they officially submit, the plan that we saw kept all development along US 129 bypass and on west side of the creek that runs through the property,” Ward said. “A traffic study is currently underway.”

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#1 Susan on 09/20/12 at 07:52 PM [Reply]

Traffic Study? Shopping Center behind CVS isn't built yet..... how can a traffic study be accurate? We wait in line to get across the bypass to get to the schools and someone wants to put a Walmart there? Apparently, they don't drive Old Pendergrass Road during rush times......or they just don't care?

#1.1 anon on 09/21/12 at 11:21 AM [Reply]

A traffic study will take existing traffic and project the impact Wal Mart will have on the area. That intersection is the de facto new downtown Jefferson. Your choice to purchase a house in that area couldn't have been based on the expectation that the 129 bypass would remain undeveloped. Put your kids on the bus in the morning and there would be one less car in that long line.

#1.2 Ally on 09/21/12 at 11:48 AM [Reply]

OMG quit whining about ur dang kids put them on the freaking bus as the other person commented and u will be one less of the "rush hour". Do you even know what rush hour is? Waiting in line to get to the school is not rush hour honey. Downtown Jefferson is dead and there are no jobs but u cry babies go ahead and cry about the walmart.. Did u stop to think how many jobs it could bring to the area??? If you bought a house after the by pass was built that is your problem did you think they would never develop it? Not one person mentioned anything about how many jobs this could bring... You people are sad! I want to cry because I have to wait in line to pick up my kid!! Geez

#1.2.1 Susan on 09/21/12 at 12:31 PM [Reply]

Unfortunately, the bus doesn't run early enough for me to put my kids on the bus and still make it to my job inside the perimeter on time. So, yes I am more than aware of what rush hour is. When I bought my house in 2010, we knew the bypass would be developed to an extent and looked forward to it with hopes of landscape and nice structures. We even looked at the comprehensive plan to see how it would be developed. By the way, it states Jefferson seeks alternatives to big box. Big Box = Walmart. Put something else on that corner.....a restaurant, a gym, doctor's office, whatever. I am not completely against Walmart as I shop there weekly. Just move the Walmart down the bypass to a more suitable area. How about how many jobs would be lost? It is a statistical fact that Walmart in small towns puts small business owners out of business.

#1.2.1.1 ally on 09/21/12 at 01:10 PM [Reply]

I am sorry that you can't put your children on the bus and if you travel into the perimeter each day you are more than aware of what rush hour is. And I apologize. As someone that moved to this area in 1997 from another county I am still treated as an outsider in this town. I am glad that I did not grow up so everyone doesn't know my business and my whole life story as people in this community never seem to forget any bad thing someone may have done in their past. I don't feel that a big box store would hurt the business in Jefferson.. what business is there? Downtown Jefferson looks like a ghost town any business that open on the square all close within 6 months.. The Food Lion closed and if you aren't related to someone you sure can't get a job with the county around here. Think of the tax revenue a big store would bring.. Your property taxes might actually drop and Kroger would have to be more competitive on their groceries. I think we should be grateful for any business that is considering Jackson Co and Jefferson

#1.2.1.1.1 JESSICA on 10/07/12 at 09:20 PM [Reply]

I think anyone reading your comments can see why you find it hard to get a job......anywhere. Did you even graduate high school? Geez!

#1.2.2 Shelly on 10/05/12 at 08:51 AM [Reply]

Good for you!! The jobs this would create will keep this town alive!!

#2 Elizabeth Jones on 09/20/12 at 08:53 PM [Reply]

I think they should put the Wal-Mart further down the bypass toward the Pendergrass area...that way the traffic wouldn't affect the school traffic so much and it would be right off the 85exit

#2.1 Hannah on 10/05/12 at 12:49 PM [Reply]

I agree

#3 stop on 09/20/12 at 09:01 PM [Reply]

your crying, be happy any business wants to come to Jefferson, cause the twon is pretty much dead, but just outside the city limits business seems to want to come but over zealous busy bodies can kill it like that.

#3.1 Dave on 09/20/12 at 10:58 PM [Reply]

Jefferson dead? Come to the official DEAD CORPSE called Homer. These people have no clue what business is. The mayor even praised Dollar General as having put Homer in the big time!! But they like it that way said the chicken farmer.

#3.1.1 Homer Resident on 09/21/12 at 08:16 AM [Reply]

Dave, I'm not sure why Homer came into this conversation. I would like to share with you, as a chicken farming family, we are not opposed to businesses coming into the community we just don't like how people come in and try to put regulations on the "smell" and the chicken houses in general. This is how we and others have made a living for years and if things don't change will be destroyed by outside people who have no clue. We all need to learn to depend more on ourselves, meaning individually owned businesses. Walmart is not a supporter of the local guy, they put small businesses out of business. My opinion is you have no clue of what business really is.

#3.1.1.1 Homer Resident on 09/22/12 at 03:53 PM [Reply]

To address your question: Read reply number/previous statement And NO, Homer/Banks knows nothing about business or they would be promoting growth and not cow patty bingo (see chamber of commerce). 1973 Homer was larger than Hiawassee, today Homer is dead and Hiawassee thrives. Homer's festival is a joke but Hiawasse's brings singers from Nashville. This is only ONE example of many (aka Towns Hospital) , and I stand by my opinion - With results as my justification. And no I shouldn't have to move to live in the 21st century.

#3.2 Susan on 09/21/12 at 05:36 AM [Reply]

Stop, They are wanting to put this Walmart right smack in the middle of city limits..... at the Kroger intersection.....the busiest intersection in town. Big Box doesn't fit at that location. There are too many residences within walking distance.

#4 robbie mcdaniel on 09/20/12 at 10:01 PM [Reply]

THEY DO NEED A WAL MART AROUND JEFFERSON CAUSE THE CLOSES ONE FOR HERE IS GAINESVILLE,COMMERCE,HAMILITON MILL,ARE WINDER WE NEED ONE CLOSE TO US

#4.1 Jkr on 09/20/12 at 11:17 PM [Reply]

Damn Robbie, didnt you gits an education with english as a course (class)?

#4.2 Mar on 09/26/12 at 04:22 PM [Reply]

Will be glad to have Wal-Mart! Happy Happy!

#5 ha on 09/21/12 at 06:29 AM [Reply]

Screw Walmart, I just want a Chikfila!

#6 Nice Job on 09/21/12 at 01:11 PM [Reply]

Nice work city of Jefferson! Kudo's for reeling
this deal in.
Ignore the naysayers, nimby's, cavemen...
This is a nice win for the city, all I ask is let's
make sure to include an access road like at Kroger and avoid
excess variances. I know this is a result of lot
of hard work.

#7 stop complaining on 09/21/12 at 01:16 PM [Reply]

We are lucky ANY business wants to move here when all everyone in Jackson does is b*&^& and moan... don't like were Wal-mart goes... don't like what company goes where.

Guess what Walmart means not only jobs but more SPLOST revenue for local government and schools !

But hey if y'all would rather see your tax's go up and having to burn gas to go shop elsewhere keep complaining !

Oh and the "local " business comments are worthless because most places can't afford to keep much in stock anymore... already dead.

#8 John on 09/21/12 at 04:09 PM [Reply]

Small business owners/stores will be hurt. 2 local Pharmacies who are already in competition with CVS and Kroger, Mitchells Hardware, Bells, On The Run, Dollar General, Family Dollar, Sports gear stores (2 in town), etc. What will we put in the empty buildings when they close? We think Jefferson is empty, sure it isn't overly packed corner to corner Gwinnett County (which is why we moved from Gwinnett), but there are many locals that will be hurt by Walmart.

#8.1 I have a few thoughts on that. on 09/23/12 at 09:01 PM [Reply]

As a sports mom in this county, I would LOVE to know what sort of sports supply stores you think exist here. There is a couple places that offer sports related clothing (at exaggerated prices) but nothing even close to a shop to cater to team sports supplies such as baseball bats, footballs, or soccer shin guards. I have to drive to Buford or Athens for everything my children require in that regard.

But that isn't the point of this conversation. Those small business you named will thrive because people in Jefferson will always go to certain places to shop. Mitchel's is in no danger of closing because of Walmart. Last I checked there is no lumber department in that box. Even if it were, I would bet that shoppers like myself also visit Mitchel's because they know they gentlemen that work there come to know you and always have a kind word for you. They know how to help you repair your leaking tub or what kind of oil your lawn mower takes.

Our many service stations are in no danger either, if anything the addition of a large-market gas retailer will likely be good for gas prices in Jefferson. The lower the cost of gas, the more people use it, meaning the more they are driving around town. (I suppose if you're against fossil fuels this might be a down-side instead of a positive).

Yes, Bell's may suffer, however they didn't suffer when Food Lion opened years ago, it was Food Lion that eventually found itself with no customers. If anything, I shop at Bell's over Kroger more-often than not because I know there meat prices are heads and tails better than anyone else. Kroger will only serve as competition and might in turn provide better prices for local residents who shop there. It would be a nice change of pace to see lower prices in the meat, dairy, and produce sections.

CVS won't suffer either, they will continue to suffer most from over population than they will from having a competing pharmacy across the road. Example, the Hoschton store across from Publix (who also has a full-service pharmacy) is always busy, yet I never see anyone to speak of it at the Jefferson location. They simply compete with themselves for foot traffic.

Will it increase traffic in an already heavily trafficked area? Undoubtedly! That said that same traffic will also likely frequent other local shops and restaurants as well. How often do you visit Walmart in Winder, Commerce, Athens, Oakwood, or Gainesville and ONLY go to Walmart? I would wager it's less than 10% of the times you shop there. Rather, you visit other businesses around Walmart while you are out. Why? Because when we are shopping it's an ingrained habit for most of us to go "everywhere" and get "everything" while we are out rather than have to make several trips out to different business.

Let's not forget the number of jobs a project like that would bring into town. For the person who referred to low-wages and Walmart employees living on public aid, I LARGE number of the residents in this county already are! Having gainful employment, even at Walmart, means less people on public assistance, not more. A job is a hand up, not a hand-out! You're liberal mindedness (which is what I got out of your commentary) is so what's wrong with this country today. Let's not bring in more jobs because they might not pay enough. Sorry but no job truly pays enough. Even the rich have bills to pay, a good deal of them time more than they can pay.

Everyone needs to get over themselves and understand you're just gonna have to deal with it, whatever may come.

#8.1.1 Countryboy on 09/27/12 at 12:25 PM [Reply]

I think its been too long for this area to have a Walmart, maybe they have a bad location, but I will be happy, for those of you who are not wanting area to grow up, you should have voiced your concern years ago!!! When is the last time you took a drive in this county, it has already grew up!!! I dont approve of it growing as much but I think a Walmart would be a great thing to this area!!! To me a Walmart would be better than some of the local stores!! Not to mention people would not have to drive all the way to another county to shop!!! You already have traffic problems that are not going to go away, I was driving on Hwy 129 from Jefferson to Gainesville today and was doing about 60 and I still had people passing me!! People treat Hwy 129 like its I 85 and speed on it, a Walmart is not going to cause anymore traffic problems than what you already have!!! Speed is what kills if your going to sit and complain abiut your children being safe start complaining on all these speeders who travel the local highways and streets, if you can reduce the speeders you can keep your children safer... As long as they have a traffic light where they will place a Walmart your fine... As for as the location, tome a good site would be over near QT gas station, not sure the name of the road but you have red lights on both ends and its convent to I 85....

#8.1.1.1 Will on 09/27/12 at 02:01 PM [Reply]

From what I have heard.....no traffic light.... so what now? Then again, there wasn't supposed to be a traffic light at the 129/Old Pendergrass intersection. We had to wait for people to die before they realized the traffic situation.

#9 JustPlainOldBob on 09/21/12 at 06:38 PM [Reply]

Thank you for progressive thinking. We are sick of having to drive to Commerce. Make sure they build it large enough to not abandon in 5 years.

Jobs low pay but jobs.

#10 Robert on 09/21/12 at 07:52 PM [Reply]

I agree that there are advantages of having a WalMart in Jefferson. I also see huge problems with the location they have chosen. So let's have the WalMart but choose a better location. There are plenty of places toward I85 that would be better suited for the traffic that a WalMart would bring. Also, with WalMart will come more businesses. Let's go ahead and plan for those. There are two near-empty industrial parks on both sides of I85. I know they weren't designed for WalMart type stores but I think it is something that should be considered.

#11 Consciousness from above on 09/21/12 at 07:54 PM [Reply]

Bringing commerce to a town = Good. We all benefit from taxes/ local revenue generated.

Having local businesses = Even better, the majority of the money stays local. (@ stop complaining: new businesses owners have access to a lot of gov't help w/ resources here: http://www.sba.gov/)

Wally World = Trashy. Workers aren't treated fairly, spikes in crime, and pollution (a variety of factoids available, example: http://www.businesspundit.com/stats-on-walmart/).

Best of luck, Jefferson. May God grant you the wisdom and foresight to accurately gauge and choose your future.

#12 JustPlainOldBob on 09/21/12 at 07:58 PM [Reply]

Laughing loudly. Does anyone seriously think the heirs to the farms really wants to pursue or had rather sell? Pipe dream.

Define progress define lack of progress. Define a county who is breaking our backs with taxes. But oh wait if you are only a homeowner without the 100 acres you pay more. The others get exemptions or paid for it to sit there.

Move further out no one will stop the train.

#13 Me on 09/21/12 at 08:37 PM [Reply]

Imaybe all these people wanting Walmart like cheap chinese items. When will people stop buying from Walmart and support AMERICANS??????????

#14 J. R. on 09/22/12 at 12:15 AM [Reply]

I have been a resident of Jefferson for almost 10 years and a Walmart associate for over 22 years. When I started my career with Walmart, I lived in Blairsville and drove 62 miles one way to work at Walmart in Cornelia for $4.25 an hour. I have worked hard for all these years and have been blessed to work for this company. Do we sell goods from China, India, Mexico, et all? Yes. I have made a conscious effort to seek out goods made here in the Us. Guess what? Check out Target, Home Depot, Lowes, Kohls....the list goes on. You have to actually read the labels to find products proudly made in the USA at any major retail chains. What about prescription drugs...Walmart pioneered the $4.00 generic drug program. And the local independent pharmacies soon followed suit.
Want to talk about the empty buildings in downtown Jefferson? Have you noticed just how long they have been vacant? Have you bothered to investigate how much they are asking for them?
Let's talk about service. The coffee shop that opened just off the square closes at what time? And the restaurant that opened on the square a few months ago? Hopefully they have gotten it together since my first visit.The one time that I have been there was horrible and as I was leaving with my family I heard an employee there berating a diner about how most people don't really understand how steaks are cooked...
Walmart did not cause the closing of Food Lion in Jefferson or the number of locations that Food Lion closed. Will local businesses suffer if Walmart comes to Jefferson? Perhaps. Will it cause the 2 grocery stores in our town to step up their game? Yes.
Not all of us have to worry about getting our children to school before we have to drive to Atlanta to work. Some of us have to deal with the mess that the construction at Jefferson High School has caused. And some of us would welcome the tax relief that Walmart would bring to the residents of this town. Perhaps you should question the city officials that have approved zoning requests for the numerous vacant industrial sites in our city that are still sitting empty.
Please do not believe all that you read about the "evil" Walmart. Speaking as someone who has worked hard as most of us do and has benefited from the behemoth that is Walmart, I can tell you that having them in our community WILL be a good thing. How many of you opposed Kroger or CVS coming into our community? Did Jefferson Drugs close? Nope. Bells? No.
Let's welcome the 300 or so jobs that this company will bring to our community and welcome the tax relief and competition that they will bring.

#15 Go back to Gwinnett on 09/22/12 at 07:43 AM [Reply]

If you want growth go back to Gwinnett. Want to work inside the perimeter, move closer to Atlanta. Hate traffic, show up at the meetings and let them know exactly how you feel.

#16 Opinion with experience on 09/22/12 at 08:08 AM [Reply]

This would not be good for Jefferson; it will pull business from the small businesses that you keep talking about buying local from. You talk about building up the small town business but this will only tear down the small business. You will shut down Bell's, Family Dollar, Dollar General, Crawford Long and any other small business that is here in town. It also would only be the start of turning Highway 129 into the new Gwinnett with all the strip malls down the whole bypass. I think this is why people have moved from Gwinnet to get away from this. It all sounds good on paper with the money the City would gain but along with comes gangs, crime, apartments, over crowding, and the loss of community. I can speak to this with experience; I moved her from Gwinnet many years a go because this same type of thing happened there and had to get out because we were being swallowed up by all the big business and strip malls, and crime that comes with progress. Just watch the news and talk to people that moved from these areas most will say you do not want this in your area. You can bet it will happen here in your wonderful town and Wal-Mart would only be the beginning. The people of Jefferson need to open their eyes and look at the towns around you that have done this and see how they are now, is this really what you want. So we need to stand up and fight to keep our community like it is. Growth is not always a good thing!

#16.1 Not necessarily true on 09/23/12 at 05:17 PM [Reply]

You may have had one experience where these things happened, but that is just your experience. Here in Commerce, there is a Wal-Mart, but there are also TWO Dollar General stores, a Family Dollar, and many small businesses in downtown. Two of those small businesses are local pharmacies, Commerce Drug and Tiger Town Pharmacy. They are all open and have been for the 10+ years I have lived in Commerce with the Wal-Mart open. Not to mention, Quality Foods, Fred's, and Ingles are also open and seemingly doing just fine.

And seriously, crime and gangs are going to increase? Again, here in Commerce we are doing just fine in those respects, and that is with Wal-Mart, the Tanger Outlets, Shoppes at Banks Crossing, and the strip mall near the Tanger center. I live five minutes from those places, and I can tell you that it is safe and secure. Yes, there are always idiots that are going to break the law, but they would break it whether Wal-Mart was there or not.

People complain and complain about the lack of jobs, lack of variety in shopping choices, etc. and here comes a store that will give you variety and bring in jobs, and you complain. Will there be traffic issues to consider? Yes, that is why a traffic study will be conducted.

If you don't want progress to come to where you live, may I suggest that you buy a piece of a mountain and go learn to live off of the land by yourself there?

#16.1.1 Brenda on 09/23/12 at 06:26 PM [Reply]

I don't know how to say this without sounding horrible. So, I apologize in advance. I am not trying to offend anyone. I think that most would agree that Commerce Walmart is nothing but trashy pure and simple. The entire area surrounding it is. Small town Commerce isn't at that exit with the outlets. Small town Commerce is "downtown". Commerce High is in the middle of a residential area...no where near the Walmart or the outlets. It is still in a small town. You have thousands of people visiting the outlets, Walmart, etc. It is literally on I-85. That's great, but that isn't what is being proposed here. Now, let me thank you. You have completely made our point here in Jefferson. Put the Walmart on the 85 Exit, not in the middle of our small town - 1 mile from our schools and in a residential area. We would welcome it either at the 85 exit or in the opposite direction headed to Athens.

#17 John on 09/22/12 at 05:01 PM [Reply]

This is what Walmart will not tell you.

Everyone gets excited about the boost in Tax Revenue and our taxes going down. When have you ever seen your taxes go down? Never, and they will not even with a Walmart. Oh wait, they might for a few of you....because your property value will go down. The fact is the tax benefits are offset by the cost of providing public services, declining existing business revenue and the property value lost with putting a Walmart in a residential neighborhood. Walmart also requires more road maintenance, utilities, fire & police time, etc.

Jobs Jobs Jobs…. Those jobs will cost you money. Many Walmart employees do not earn enough to meet basic living expenses. Some also lack health insurance. Guess who picks up the cost? You! It comes in the form of food stamps, Medicaid, etc.

Let’s talk Environment.
When it rains, the ground absorbs the rain. A 200K building or a parking lot isn’t the ground. A 200K square foot building requires a parking lot of many acres. A 12 acre lot generates over 309,000 gallons of contaminated runoff during a one inch storm. That runoff goes into our streams and sewer. It will not have to go far, there is a stream on the property. More cost for the city, more cost to you.

Traffic.
What can be said that isn’t obvious? Remember when they put the Kroger in? They honestly thought we didn’t need a traffic signal. City, county, state, etc had to fight just to get it and even then had to split the cost. I assume Walmart will have to pay for the new road improvements? Who then will maintain it? More cost to the city. The proposed intersection is most heavily traveled area in Jefferson. There are constantly accidents there. Can it hold approximately 10,000 more cars a Saturday or Sunday? Think that is high? Hopefully, it doesn’t get higher. Think about it. You can’t go to Pendergrass on the weekends. The traffic is a nightmare due to the flea market. Well, why not travel 3 miles and finish up my weekend shopping at the Walmart?

Loss of small business.
Our small business owners are invaluable to Jefferson. From Bells to Mitchells to The Straw Lot to the Pharmacies. These owners support us, support our schools and our kids. I just hope Walmart has an emergency number for their pharmacy for after hours. That is what we have now with the small business.

Yes! Walmart will bring money to Jefferson. It will also bring traffic, strangers, crime, trash, low wages, loss of property value, parking lot carnivals, empty buildings, tents, runoff and a loss of Jefferson charm that so many of us moved here for. If you want big box stores, move to a bigger town.

Source:reclaimdemocracy

#18 JustPlainOldBob on 09/23/12 at 12:12 AM [Reply]

Laughing at these silly anti Walmart postings. So would bet these same NO people shop at Walmart for the savings.

Don't like Chinese junk? Well our gubberment pushed the jobs offshore. Regulations, taxes, greed.

Walmart welcome to Jefferson. There is no money to be made in a cow pasture anymore. Next can we talk Home Depot or Lowes?

And by golly Chic Filet why are you not here?

Those anti business wonder if the fathers of this hick place fought progress? Guess so the rail lines to Athens for passenger traffic gone.

Why can't we board a train to get to Atlanta?

#18.1 love small town on 09/23/12 at 07:45 AM [Reply]

I have to say I do not shop at wal-mart, because I support small local business. You need to move bact to where you came from. In fact I do make money in those old cow pastures.

#19 get over yourself. on 09/23/12 at 09:48 AM [Reply]

I have lived here for over six years and watched most small businesses in downtown Jefferson open and close in a matter of months. I work hard for my money and would much rather go to Wal-Mart than pay high prices at one of those temporary openings.
As for the traffic, there are many ways to get around that intersection if it is that much of a burden to you. Lord forbid it may take you a couple of extra minutes to get your kids to school.
Do you really think crime is going to go through the roof due to a Wal-Mart being put in? Not a chance. You have to take the good with the bad people. Wal-Mart would be a great addition to this town.

#20 JustPlainOldBob on 09/23/12 at 08:48 PM [Reply]

This is so cool. Some are worried the high class Dollar stores will suffer.

These are owned by mega corporations who pay less than Wally World. They would not give you the sweat off their backsides. Talking about junk.

#21 JustPlainOldBob on 09/24/12 at 12:33 AM [Reply]

America was built on competing for the dollar. If some would have it their way Jackson County would be the the 17th century. Oh wait have we made it to the 18th yet?

Like it or not the place is going to change. Demand a 25 year plan of growth. Don't have residential in areas that should be commercial. And the other way as well.

And this pollution? Read up about how much gas one cow puts into air!!! But some still like steak. And chicken houses .......

Pick and choose. The 129 corridor is begging for planned development.

WElcome Wally World.

#21.1 Brenda on 09/24/12 at 05:33 AM [Reply]

There is a twenty year plan. It began in 2008. It is called the Comprehensive Plan and can be found on the city website. It details growth, landscape, thoughout all of the bypass, downtown, etc. It also very clearly states "seek alternatives to brown box". It does not state jump at the first brown box that comes our way. Also, just an observation....I not sure how worried about the Dollar Stores themselves people are. I think is is more about what will go in the eyesore of yet another empty building. The small business is a different catagory of worry.

#21.1.1 JustPlainOldBob on 09/24/12 at 10:29 PM [Reply]

With no disrespect that would be called "big box".

#22 - on 09/24/12 at 09:29 AM [Reply]

First, I am not a Wal-Mart fan...I just don't like the store. Do I shop there? Of course, just like everyone else. I, personally, prefer Target-stores are cleaner, staff is friendlier (& actually helpful when you ask a question)& better quality products (in my opinion). My issue w/the whole Wal-Mart thing is the location. If people truly believe there will not be more traffic issues take a ride to the Monroe Wal-Mart. For a once similiar intersection, the Hwy 78/138 intersection is now awful!!! And the amount of trash you see when you come into Monroe there is disgusting! (Yes, I used to live in Monroe-lived there when nothing was on those corners but a singal stop sign until we moved here about 5 yrs ago). So why is using a pre-existing empty building or use an area further down 129 (like the other side of Burger King) such a problem? Progress is a good thing but so is common sense. BTW-why can't we try to get Target in Jefferson? We don't have one of those close.

#22.1 reason on 09/25/12 at 11:40 AM [Reply]

"Progress is a good thing but so is common sense." Best comment offered thus far. Good words for folks on both sides of the debate.

#23 Michelle C. on 09/24/12 at 01:01 PM [Reply]

Love the idea of a Wal-mart. It would save a lot of time and gas and keep me from having to drive to Commerce every time I need items that Kroger or the other local stores do not carry. Hate the idea of it being at Old Pendergrass Rd and 129. I agree that it should be further up the road towards I-85.

#24 Hope on 09/24/12 at 01:45 PM [Reply]

I moved to Jefferson 5 years ago and hate the idea of a Wal-Mart moving to our town. I commute to Atlanta 5 days a week, but it is worth every mile when I drive through Jefferson on my way home. No Big Box Stores for Jefferson!!!!! Let's not destroy the charm of our community. PLEASE.

#24.1 Agree on 09/24/12 at 07:53 PM [Reply]

I agree with you!

#25 excitedaboutwalmart on 09/24/12 at 03:08 PM [Reply]

I am very excited about the Walmart! Are there plans to build all along the bypass?

#26 Will on 09/24/12 at 03:46 PM [Reply]

I bet many of you that blog here that you want it either do not own land in the city limits of Jefferson, voted for Obama or possibly both. You are clueless.

#26.1 Agree on 09/24/12 at 07:50 PM [Reply]

I agree,with you!

#26.2 Nice Job on 09/24/12 at 08:56 PM [Reply]

Welcome to Jefferson Wal-Mart!
Look forward to having you here!
I bet those complaining the loudest will be first in
line when it opens.

#26.3 wrong on 09/24/12 at 09:26 PM [Reply]

I have owned land in the city limits for years and always vote Republican. I also would never move by an airport and then complain about the noise.

#27 Nice Job on 09/24/12 at 08:59 PM [Reply]

Oh, and I voted for W and am campaigning
for Mitt!

#28 JustPlainOldBob on 09/25/12 at 01:56 AM [Reply]

Funny too funny-
The Straw Lot - been buying product from him for years. Walmart does not sell bulk.

The Ford Dealer- Never bought one there but hey Walmart won't stop that.

Maddox feed and seed - Walmart can not compete. They are great. Sound advice, good product, good people.

Restaurants from Mom and Pop to franchise - solid as a rock. Good food, good prices.

Kroger - Walmart will make them compete.

CVS - Death knoll. Want to say 2 years tops? Like CVS but niche.

Dentists, Doctors, Medical - Nope Wally World won't touch.

Hair cuts/salons- Does not everyone go to where they get the best service?

Mitchell - Where else would anyone go to buy lumber, and good hardware? Not Wally World.

Post Office - Okay.

Local pharmacy - Wally does not deliver or bundle to local senior citizens housing. Nope Wally won't hurt. Something to be said about relationship building.

The highway / interstate- Still be there.

Commerce - Can save us 4.00 gallon gasoline, less pollution closer.

DQ- An ICON Wally World nope.

Dollar stores - These are traded on Wall Street pay less than Wally. Horrible.

So, what else can we dispel? The nay sayers will be first in line.

#28.1 Will on 09/25/12 at 07:04 AM [Reply]

Ha!

So that I know where you are coming from....

The senior citizens will keep the local pharmacies in business?

I wasn't aware so many people needed pine straw in bulk. I don't consider 20-60 bales bulk, so what is bulk?

Does your dentist, doctor, medical include vision?

Not sure how restaurants compete with Walmart, but I'll bite..... where are these good food, good price restaurants? We usually drive to Athens.

#28.1.1 JustPlainOldBob on 09/25/12 at 09:30 PM [Reply]

So here we go wally put all of the locals out of business? Too funny.

#29 not so concerned on 09/25/12 at 04:09 PM [Reply]

Walmart locating in Jefferson will have lots of positives and some negatives. Definite increase in traffic flow, great 1 stop shopping,influx of restaraunts, etc that tend to locate around Walmarts, will definitely increase sales tax revenue,etc.
Will not hurt many local businesses as Walmart can't offer the services as mom and pop drugstores, CVS, Howington's, Maddox,etc.
It would be nice to have a Longhorns, or Red Lobster or such at Jefferson exit.

#30 Robert Hollett on 09/25/12 at 05:56 PM [Reply]

I recommend the documentary "Walmart: The High Cost Of Low Prices." I have included a YouTube link.
http://youtu.be/Jazb24Q2s94

#31 J on 09/25/12 at 07:48 PM [Reply]

Overall- I read all of the above comments and have spoken to a lot of local leaders and neighbors in Jefferson. I truly believe that most people want a Walmart. Jefferson needs a Walmart. The BIG issue is the potential location. If it is coming, fine. But PLEASE do not pass the 're-zoning' requirements for the Old Pendergrass Rd. area. PLEASE try and push for it to be placed near I-85, perhaps past Tiger Direct, or behind QT. That will not only benefit Walmart by gaining Interstate customers, but be a better fit for Jefferson.

Thank you!!

#32 locationlocationlocation on 09/26/12 at 09:10 AM [Reply]

People chose to live by a bypass and then complain when things grow along the bypass?

#33 j on 09/26/12 at 08:25 PM [Reply]

Location is exactly right. The location of Walmart needs to be located further north on the by-pass. NOT located in the heart of town between numerous residential communities and between the schools and the rec dept. No against Walmart, just the location.

#33.1 anon on 09/27/12 at 05:00 AM [Reply]

I believe I trust WalMart more on their decision where to locate than I do anyone around here. WalMart is a hugely successful multi-national corporation. They put countless hours into researching sites for new stores. If everyone here thinks a store "up by 85" or "in the industrial park" is a better location, go open one there yourself. Otherwise, I look forward to seeing you all at the Planning Commission meeting, and then later when the Mayor and City Council vote on any rezoning. What's that? You're busy those nights? That's what I thought. See you at WalMart then.

#33.2 Sandy on 09/30/12 at 05:45 AM [Reply]

I know a few people closer to the interstate on the Jefferson side and still be on the bypass, that would be more than happy to sale them some property for a Walmart or any other bussiness.At a very reasonable price.

#34 Robin on 09/27/12 at 06:29 AM [Reply]

I would like to see them locate further away from the already crowded intersection that is there. There is more land down the road and not close to the schools nor the subdivisions that are located within walking distance. PS, I dont live in that particular area of the intersection, but I drive thru it everyday and my kids went to school in Jefferson. Move it further towards Arcade or 85

#35 Cecilia on 09/27/12 at 11:58 AM [Reply]

I also believe Walmart should be located closer to the interstate. I think the Old Pendergrass and HWY 129 area will not be able to stand the excessive traffic. I would have to see plans first and hope they are looking at the traffic flow. If they do put a Walmart there I believe they should also look at the intersection of Hwy 129 and Hwy 11. I think this intersection will be more dangerous than it already is. Traffic will increase from Hwy 11 (high school side) and coming from Athens. There is not a turn signal coming from the Hwy 11 from Jefferson and Winder (not a smart move) and I think more traffic is an accident waiting to happen. Please first and foremost protect our children at the surrounding schools.

#36 JustPlainOldBob on 09/27/12 at 03:31 PM [Reply]

Anyone here who thinks they know more about Walmart and the location they have chosen is plain wrong. This is what they do as a living. Anyone else is purely second guessing.

Welcome Walmart with open arms. Locals will do just fine. And let me ask a question. Do you buy all of your family's clothes from local merchants? Highly doubtful. Jackson needs 300+ more jobs. Everyone is not fortunate enough to have a PHD, MBA, or skilled trade.

Many success stories in Walmart from working 3rd shift weekends to the corporate office.

Hard work.

#36.1 Katie on 09/27/12 at 04:14 PM [Reply]

No....mostly buy spirit wear and uniforms locally. We won't buy clothes at Walmart. I don't understand your point though. Are you thinking we need a Walmart for clothes?

#37 wally on 09/27/12 at 04:11 PM [Reply]

I love the ideal of a Walmart and I would love for it to be located closer to Pendergrass.

#37.1 Katie on 09/27/12 at 04:17 PM [Reply]

Looks like county residents want it....put in in county, not city limits. Seems like a win win.

#38 HalloweenMadness on 09/27/12 at 08:56 PM [Reply]

I like the idea of Wal-Mart in Jefferson, just not at that intersection. Put it further North on the bypass, close to I-85. If you want Wal-Mart in Jefferson, then I guess you'll be voting for Brad Loggins for Mayor cause he's the one selling his property to put Wally World there next to YOUR SCHOOLS! That'll increase the crime in the area near your schools. If Wal-Mart comes to that corner, we might as well invite "Honey Boo Boo" and her entire backwoods redneck family to move to our beautiful city of Jefferson!

#38.1 anon on 09/28/12 at 05:04 AM [Reply]

If I'm not mistaken, Honey Boo Boo has many kinfolk in Jefferson.

Sugar Bear used to work at Jefferson House and June shopped at Real Deals all the time.

Just kidding.

Wow, the Planning Commission meeting for the WalMart rezone should be standing room only!

#38.1.1 I doubt it... on 09/28/12 at 09:45 AM [Reply]

SRO at planning/zoning meeting? Doubt it, few
folks turned out for key debates during elections,
open forum for school tax increase, key council
and commisioner meetings.
We need to hold DOT accountable for traffic
study and ensure intersection modified accordingly.
We should demand to see written copy of traffic study
when complete. Let's ensure best practices of planning and zoning
are implemented.
And welcome to Jefferson Wal-Mart!

#39 notsure on 09/27/12 at 11:30 PM [Reply]

He sold the land to the school right? Then to Kroger as well? Now to Walmart. I mean can you really blame him?

Has the Hamilton Mill Walmart brought crime to the area? It seems to have brought in nicer restaurants. A lot of upscale areas have big box stores. In fact, some ride their golf carts to shop them.

#39.1 Katie on 09/28/12 at 05:35 AM [Reply]

Actually, yes. There is more crime around the Walmart in Hamilton Mill than before the Walmart arrived. A couple of assaults and several armed robberies..... even one across the road at the Chick Fil A. Walmart's fault? Who can say?

#39.2 county resident on 09/28/12 at 11:26 AM [Reply]

No, he didn't sell any property to the school.

#40 JustPlainOldBob on 09/28/12 at 09:18 PM [Reply]

Crime: Personally saw two chickens fighting 2 cows in the cow pasture, shouting: eat more beef.

Now does anyone seriously think that as close as I-85 is to this county everyone on the roads are good model citizens? Can anyone say: major corridor?

Fight Walmart NOPE. Seeing just funny excuses on this site anti Wally World.

Wally World loses very fight battles.

Oh I know let's boycott Wally World. H a

#41 HMMMMMMMMMMMMM on 09/29/12 at 08:36 AM [Reply]

How about this,
Walmart comes in and wants to build at one location. Everyone get upset about that location so walmart says, O.K. we will move the store up near 85 if the city gives us....(fill in the blank)

#42 JustPlainOldBob on 09/29/12 at 09:26 AM [Reply]

They will be just fine where they are locating and so will we.

Only concern should be if/when they abandon the facility. Hope they build it large enough for at least next 20+ years. Blight is old empty shopping centers that fall into disrepair, copper thieves and vandals ruin and property falls into category of out of code/compliance.

#43 Joyce on 09/29/12 at 07:05 PM [Reply]

Come to Arcade we would LOVE to Have A Wal mart..And we have lots of room.

#44 JustPlainOldBob on 09/29/12 at 10:27 PM [Reply]

Arcade,
Beautiful Arcade. A work on progress for another 1000000000 years, in a time warp.

Yawn

#45 magnoliadiana on 09/30/12 at 11:28 AM [Reply]

I think Walmart needs to come to Jefferson along with more business. this is 2012 people and this town needs to grow with the rest of the country. And maybe just maybe our kids will have more job options then just working at DQ or fast food located near the interstate. Jefferson is stuck in a time lapse and I for one am tired of running to Commerce, Winder or Hamilton Mills for Walmart or Home Depot..... lets put on our big panties and suck it up people. Times are changing and you can be with it or just in your rockers with blinders on.9fv

#45.1 Katie on 09/30/12 at 11:51 AM [Reply]

I Have bigger dreams for my kids than any sort of retail. I am teaching them to have the same big dreams. Good grades in High School--the same in college will get you there---not Walmart, Home Depot or any other retail in Jefferson.

#45.1.1 JustPlainOldBob on 09/30/12 at 01:11 PM [Reply]

Congratulations that is good parenting. When they get old enough allow them to work in some very hard dead end job with no future. Let them live check to check.

THEN teach them there is a bigger picture in life of education, more education, and hard work. They can even achieve this while working retail. But with a vision.

Guy I knew and as a teen step dad put him to work in his moving business. Hard, no extra hard, hot, cold demanding physical exertion. Pu him through wringer. Then said; you can do this rest of your lifer or............ now he is not wealthy but ultra rich.

#45.1.1.1 Jim Davis on 10/01/12 at 09:53 PM [Reply]

Just in case you dont know a walmart Store manager can pull down about 200k so if you think you dont want your kid working there then go on thinking that

#45.1.1.1.1 Katie on 10/02/12 at 12:19 PM [Reply]

200k? Not even close. It varies region to region as any other job. The avg salary taking into account higher regions is less than 100k. Georgia would be significantly lower.

#46 BR549 on 10/03/12 at 02:40 PM [Reply]

I do not have a problem with Walmart coming to Jefferson but I do have a problem with were they want to put it. It seems like it would be better for traffic if they either put it between Holder Siding and Race Track since there are no major intersections to contend with or down past Hwy 11 going to Arcade since there are places that are already leveled off. Traffic already backs up Old Pendergrass Rd if you are coming from town so how do they think people will be able to turn into the parking lot. Are people going to do a U-turn on the bypass so they can then turn into Walmart. If it is left up to Jim, he will rubber stamp it no matter how many people think it is a bad location. Jim has never met a business rezoning proposal he did not like.

#46.1 anon on 10/03/12 at 05:39 PM [Reply]

On what do base your opinion that it "seems like it would be better" in another location? Are you a traffic engineer? A landscape architect? Just wondering. No offense intended.

#46.1.1 Katie on 10/03/12 at 08:51 PM [Reply]

Traffic engineers didn't think a traffic light was needed at the current 129/Old Pendergrass intersection. The citizens begged for a light. They knew one was a must. Finally after several deaths, it was installed. It is common sense.

#46.1.1.1 anon on 10/04/12 at 08:30 AM [Reply]

Before the light was installed there were stop signs on either side of the bypass on Old Pendergrass Rd. That means vehicles traveling along the bypass had the right of way and any accident in that intersection would have been caused by the driver on Old Pendergrass failing to yield. Am I wrong? And again, no offense intended either to the author above, nor those who were injured or killed at that intersection. Have there been any accidents since the light was installed?

#46.1.1.1.1 Katie on 10/05/12 at 09:21 PM [Reply]

I agree most accidents were caused by those failing to yield. I am just pointing out that the engineers do not always know best. A light was must at that intersection from the beginning. The citizens of Jefferson realized it months before something was done about it.

#46.1.1.2 afan on 10/22/12 at 12:58 AM [Reply]

Traffic lights or lack of do not cause accidents. Idiot drivers do. Those that text, talk on the phone, eat and play with the radio. Start taking away driver licenses instead.

#47 Marty on 10/05/12 at 10:46 AM [Reply]

How will a WalMart effect my property value since I will be Real close to it?

#47.1 anon on 10/05/12 at 11:24 AM [Reply]

How close? Contiguous?

Since property values in Jackson County have dropped over 50% since their peak, I don't see how WalMart could have much more of a downside for you, but I understand your concerns. My opinion is that the proximity of additional shopping alternatives should help to raise property values in the Jefferson area.

I may be wrong.

#47.2 Debbie on 10/05/12 at 09:12 PM [Reply]

I wouldn't purchase a house with a Walmart within a mile of the house if not more. I can't find many that do not agree with me on this.

#48 good then move to Montana on 10/08/12 at 06:08 AM [Reply]

oh i get a house cheap, then cry when someone down the road buys property that was for sale, then builds on it, then I cry because now I have a neighbor who wont use thier land the way I want THEM to use it. .. hey buy up more land so you wont have neighbors.
put your kids in Private schools so they wont be in anyway put out, have the family driver take them to and from whereever and if it is far use your helicopter, or just get to work quit trying to run others use of thier property and start working to enrich your childrens future, maybe get a LOCAL job rather then spending three hours a day in traffic and the little extra pay going for gas and child care could be changed into spending time with your kids and buying things other then gasoline and give you an extra ten hours not driving each week........

#48.1 Will on 10/08/12 at 07:14 AM [Reply]

Judging by your post, you are the perfect Walmart employee!

#48.2 anon on 10/08/12 at 09:55 AM [Reply]

What local jobs?

#49 hmm on 10/08/12 at 11:25 PM [Reply]

there are several local jobs here and within twenty miles when once you take the difference you spend on childcare, gsoiline, wear and tear on the car from long drives equal same pay you lose by driving up to an hour sitting in traffic and in gneral being away fom the thing you work hard to get your family and home..

It is not what one makes... it is what one keeps.....

#50 Beverly on 10/10/12 at 04:22 PM [Reply]

Bring on Wal mart and hopefully next a Lowes

#51 michelle on 10/15/12 at 12:42 AM [Reply]

I will be glad when we finally get a Walmart I love living here in Jefferson but I'm tired of driving to winder, commerce, and Hamilton mill just to go to Walmart it will definitely save me gas

#51.1 Save gas? on 10/16/12 at 02:19 PM [Reply]

How will you save gas when you are sitting in traffic waiting in line on Old Pendergrass Road? Yes, a Wal-Mart would be nice to have local and not have to drive to another city and give them our sales tax dollars. BUT, it would serve the community much better to have near I-85 and not in the middle of a residential area on the road with 4 schools. The traffic and safety for our kids would be tremendous!!

#51.1.1 anon on 10/17/12 at 06:00 AM [Reply]

I disagree with the traffic concerns BUT the property is currently zoned for agricultural uses so it will require a rezone. There will be ample opportunity for those with valid concerns to have their voices heard.

#52 Raul on 10/25/12 at 05:22 PM [Reply]

This just kills me. I travel through the south east, most times thru small towns. One thing that has become clear is that every time one of this big box stores comes to town, it is devastating to the small business within the community that it is supposed to help flourish.

Jobs? Yes, there are those. Can you live off their wages and benefits? I have yet to meet one employee who can honestly tell me they make a good living working at Wally world. Most of these are part-time jobs.

We see the "buy local" logos all through out Jefferson. Lets not forget this campaign to buy local!

Save a few bucks in gas? You'll spend more in the lost of property value, time lost waiting in traffic--including the increased dangers with 18-wheelers that bring the merchandise driving up and down 129.

Lets think this one through guys. I'd much rather take a 10 minute drive to Commerce than have that mess in my back yard folks.

#52.1 jeffersonisgoingtogrow on 10/25/12 at 09:18 PM [Reply]

There is no way I can get from the proposed Jefferson Walmart area to Commerce in 10 minutes? It's 20 miles for me and 20-25 minutes one way.

#53 tax, tax, tax on 10/28/12 at 08:14 AM [Reply]

this is a done deal. they already have a company doing the land survey and core drilling tests. Walmart would not be spending this money unless they have been guaranteed approval

#54 JustPlainOldBob on 10/29/12 at 06:12 PM [Reply]

Ten minute drive to Commerce. I could do it in 5 if Donald Trump would loan me a helicopter.

Takes me 30 to get there and 30 to get back.

#54.1 seriously? on 10/30/12 at 01:08 PM [Reply]

There is only 12 miles between the exits....drive faster.

#54.1.1 gps on 10/30/12 at 11:01 PM [Reply]

No one actually lives on an exit ramp nor do they shop on one. Try GPS or Google Maps. From many homes around here to Commerce Walmart it's 20 miles both ways. That's 40 round trip.

I hope our new Walmart is more updated with healthier food choices. Some stores are better than others. I also hope it has a hair salon that sells salon quality hair products. A nail salon could be good also.

#55 Not a done deal on 10/29/12 at 10:05 PM [Reply]

Wal-mart is NOT a done deal. They will NOT purchase the land if it is unable to be built upon- rock, wetlands, etc. The core drilling and surveying is pocket change to Wal-mart vs. the cost of the land and building. Let's come together Jefferson Citizens and be at the meetings to stop this to save our town!!

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