Expect to see more local “Ma & Pa” businesses to go under, as the county Board of Supervisors further relaxes their permit process. Now, don’t get me wrong, I think the entire process is too arduous and discourages new business development. However, inviting more “big box” retail establishments into the area won’t grow our economy.
Sonora, CA - Small Town, USA
Big-box rule change OK’d
Written by Chris Caskey,
The Union Democrat
October 05, 2011 03:10 pm
It will be easier to build a “big box” retail store in Tuolumne County than it used to be.
The county Board of Supervisors on Tuesday unanimously approved changes to the county ordinance code to loosen up regulations on large-scale retail developments in the county.
The motivation behind the changes, said Community Resources Agency Director Bev Shane, is to encourage economic development with fewer restrictions.
[Read more...]
No wonder the board has voted to place a ban on medical marijuana dispenseries, they are planning to cater to the likes of Lowe’s and Walmart. We are losing our small town charm, with our small business establishments. One by one we will begin to lose more and more of our locally owned, small-town businesses that employ the locals.
Maybe you haven’t noticed but we’ve seen a huge influx of chain stores coming to Sonora — the problem is they are bringing valley workers to staff them, instead of hiring local residents, which is partially to blame for the crowded streets we are all experiencing.
We need to do more to encourage small business owners to set up shop in Tuolumne County. Doesn’t anyone on that board have an economics degree? Maybe the county should splurge to hire someone.
