Galt, CA. Proposal Tests “Big Box” Ordinance

Wal-Mart eyes new store site in Galt [Lodi News-Sentinel (Calif.)]

The city may have found its first test case for its proposed “big box ordinance”: Wal-Mart.

The retail giant applied last week to build a 132,000 square-foot store at Twin Cities Road and Fermoy Way.

It’s the second Galt site Wal-Mart has eyed in the past two years.

They had previously looked at a spot near Boessow Road and Highway 99.

Community Development Director Curt Campion said Thursday night any big box rules — if eventually approved by the City Council — will likely apply to Wal-Mart’s new application.

“I believe it will,” he said during a break at the Galt Planning Commission meeting.

Commissioners delayed their review of the proposed ordinance, which would ban stores larger than 140,000 square feet that include more than 10 percent of their retail space to non-taxable goods.

The proposed rules would require stores from 100,000 to 139,999 square feet to obtain a conditional use permit. Studies on the project’s effect on crime, urban decay, the economy and its general compatibility within a neighborhood would be required before a vote on the permit.

Commissioners wanted more time for themselves and the public to review the rules.

They’ll consider them again at their Sept. 27 meeting at 9 a.m.

The City Council will vote on the ordinance later this fall.

Commissioners and several members of the public were mixed on whether to limit future big box stores.

For Donna Healey, having a Wal-Mart nearby would be a big help.

“I think with the right planning, it could be a very big benefit to the community,” said Healey, a Galt resident and mother of two young daughters.

She added that it’s difficult driving out of town every time she needs a new pair of socks for her kids.

“We take all of our money somewhere else, except for groceries,” she added.

Wal-Mart spokesman Aaron Rios told commissioners the store would create 450 jobs, at an average wage of $11.30 per hour.

He noted workers would be eligible for benefits, bonuses, vacation time, childcare discounts and other perks.

“These are great jobs,” he added.

Commissioner Eugene Davenport, who has previously formed a committee to stop big box stores, said Galt isn’t prepared for this kind of retail growth.

“Those roads are not ready for this and the community is not ready for this,” he said.

He said Galt retail stores should be limited to less than 100,000 square feet.

Commissioner Lori Heuer said she realizes many residents want big box stores, but also feels they should be evaluated carefully.

“I think we do need to look at the effect retail establishments have,” she said.