ATLANTA (CBS ATLANTA) -
Nearly 200 people filled a community meeting room in southwest Atlanta fighting the construction of a Family Dollar store at Benjamin E. Mays and Fairburn Road. Some worry the company isn't addressing neighbors' concerns about crime and property values.
City Council members came out swinging against the chain. Elected officials said they wanted neighbors to know they believe Family Dollar needs to listen to the community.
"We are the civil rights capitol of the world and if you want to come in here, and you want to disrespect this community - the road leaves right here," said activist Audraine Jackson.
"We will boycott Family Dollar if they put that store on Mays," Atlanta City Councilman C.T. Martin told the crowd.
City Council members and neighbors say Family Dollar is already positioned all over Atlanta - Martin distributed a map showing six in Southwest Atlanta alone.
"You don't come into our neighborhood and not talk to us," said Martin.
A representative from Family Dollar said they didn't have enough notice to attend Monday's meeting, but they did send CBS Atlanta News a statement.
"It is unfortunate that a few people in this community do not understand our brand and the efforts we make to be a good community partner. We know there are many people in this neighborhood that could benefit from the value and convenience we provide and we look forward to serving our new neighbors," said Bryn Winburn with Family Dollar.
Even Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed showed up to the meeting vowing to fight for southwest Atlanta.
"There are times when we have to say that enough is enough, and this is one," said Reed.
A Family Dollar representative said the company is committed to being a partner in the community and that the new store is slated to open its doors by the end of the year.
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