Wal-Mart could jumpstart Bath economy
To the Editor,

When I was growing up in the village, Bath had a lot to offer. A few of the businesses from that era are still here today; however, many are not. Those that are not include; two department stores, four clothing stores, a children's store, a sporting goods store, four jewelry stores, two hardware stores, two furniture stores, a bookstore, a hotel, a movie theater, a roller rink, three pharmacies and a total of nine restaurants, diners and ice cream parlors. There were others that I just can't recall. Although some new businesses have come to Bath over the years since, Bath has lost more than it has gained.

Many of us do not shop outside Bath because we want to. Frequently, we can't get what we need or want here. Traveling to other communities is expensive, time consuming and inconvenient. A Wal-Mart would help to resolve these issues plus provide other benefits such as; more selection to make better choices, better prices, jobs, broadening of the tax base, greater opportunities for residents and businesses, influx of new business (hopefully to include industrial), ability to keep more money in the community and, a stronger economy. Times have changed and Bath needs to change too.

I feel our residents and their best interests should be a major consideration. They live here, pay most of the taxes and are entitled to some local benefits and conveniences. If not Wal-Mart.. then what? How many meaningful businesses are beating down our doors to come here?

If the needs and desires of people, such as jobs, shopping, entertainment, etc. are not met, they will go elsewhere. Wal-Mart has the potential of giving Bath the jump-start it sorely needs.
Richard Hough
Bath