Moratorium would forbid small box discount stores

Prepared for the signature of the Walhalla mayor is an ordinance that would establish a four-month moratorium against small box discount stores, while the city considers changes to its zoning laws.  The ordinance, in preparation for tonight’s meeting of the city council, comes at a time when its appears that the Dollar General chain is interested in a downtown location.  For some a Dollar General and the prices offered are a shopper’s dream, but others take the position that a small box discount store would be a poor fit in a downtown commercial section that has begun to fill with independent small businesses.  According to terms of the ordinance the council shall take the following actions:  “a) Review, with the assistance of the Planning Commission, the City’s current zoning ordinance, the vision, comprehensive plan, and downtown development plan(s). b) Undertake a process that will identify any needed adjustments to City Codes and regulations. (and) c) Provide for sufficient public hearing(s) to allow for public input.”