February 1, 2011
Steamboat cannot continue marketing itself, attracting tourist and secondary homeowners, unless they consider the impact on the community, including the goods and services additional residents will require. You can't pick and choose which type of growth you want, one leads to the other. The time to anticipate and discuss additional retail was when new construction was approved.
• There's been a huge amount of high-end condo construction, which will eventually sell. Where are current residents plus buyers of these units going to shop? Wal-Mart and City Market, already a zoo? Have you ever seen how long the line can be at Wal-Mart's pharmacy?
• Many locals are facing foreclosure or leaving the valley because there are no jobs. Why would City Council reject a national employer in these harsh times?
• Is City Council thinking on behalf of Steamboat residents or Lyons drug? We all know Lyons drug is for tourists, and their stock is tailored to them. Who buys essentials such as toothpaste, dish soap, etc... there? They don't carry this type of stock, and there's not enough parking to even consider as an option.
• Walgreens has their pharmacy linked nationally, a huge plus for tourists who forgot their medication. In addition, Walgreens carries merchandise you can't find in Steamboat. Residents currently go to Craig or Target to purchase; again revenue lost.
In response to:
Walgreens decision tonight at Steamboat City Council meeting
The Steamboat Springs City Council will address what essentially is a last attempt by developer Brian Olson to get approval for a Walgreens store he hopes to break ground on this year, but which has drawn recommendations for denial from city planning staff and the Steamboat Springs Planning Commission.
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