CBS Atlanta 46Protesters: Walmart, build somewhere else

Protesters: Walmart, build somewhere else

People in one DeKalb County neighborhood took to the streets in the drizzling rain to protest a proposed new Walmart.

Protesters say Walmart has a history of driving down property values and pushing out mom-and-pop businesses, but some small businesses actually think the superstore could help their own bottom line.

The group says they actually welcome new businesses at the Suburban Plaza on Scott Boulevard, but they say anything is better than a Walmart.

"I think it's going to be bad for traffic, bad for our community, bad for jobs, property values and more," said protester Staci Dixon.

But some nearby businesses like Retreat Nail Studio says they can't wait to see a new Walmart right across the street.

Christian Villasana says the crowds of people that a Walmart draws could mean big bucks for nearby retailers.

"It would definitely impact our business here," said Villasana.

But protesters say that's not good enough, and Walmart needs to find a new place to build.

"Walmart doesn't play fair with their employees, it's bad for businesses and it's not going to be good for this community," said one protester.

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