• Local shoppers tend to get better valus even if they pay more locally because:
  1. They purchase sensible quantities of groceries locally with less waste.
  2. They live healthier because they walk downtown and eat fresher food.
  3. Neighborhood shoppers spend their time more effectively: (We all live for an hour or two of quality time every day. Why spend that in a mall buying (mostly) stuff you don't even need?!!)
  4. Neighborhood shoppers get honest advice and superior service from local businesses

1. Locally owned businesses spend 90% of their revenues locally.
2. Local taxes support schools, local infrastructure and government.
3. Community businesses tend to be more considerate and flexible employers.
4. Community stores tend to encourage cash payment which reduces personal debt

Over the years national advertisers have sold us a half cooked definition of value that emphasises price and quantity over community and quality. This results in folks buying more than they actually need. Paying credit card interest on what they don't need and don't use for months makes a "good deal" a really bad deal after all.

The last word: If you want your downtown retail neighborhood to be there for your children, then vote now with your hard earned dollars before it is too late...