The article argues that big box stores, while appearing to offer lower prices and convenience, ultimately harm small towns. Their business model extracts wealth from the community, leading to a decline in local businesses, reduced tax revenue, and a degradation of the overall quality of life. This extraction is driven by factors like centralized profits, externalized costs (like road maintenance and infrastructure), and the suppression of local wages. The piece advocates for policies and citizen action that support locally-owned businesses, fostering resilient and financially sustainable communities in the long run.
In December 2008, a dike holding back a massive coal ash pond at the Tennessee Valley Authority's Kingston Fossil Plant failed, releasing over a billion gallons of toxic sludge. This deluge inundated the surrounding community, burying homes and covering hundreds of acres in a thick layer of coal ash, a byproduct of burning coal containing heavy metals and radioactive materials. The disaster displaced residents, damaged property, and spurred long-term health concerns among residents and cleanup workers, many of whom later developed cancers and other illnesses linked to coal ash exposure. The TVA ultimately took responsibility for the spill caused by faulty dike construction and was tasked with a lengthy and expensive cleanup process.
HN commenters largely focus on the lack of accountability for TVA and the devastating long-term health consequences for the Kingston community. Several highlight the inadequacy of the $43 million settlement considering the scale of the disaster and the ongoing health problems. Some commenters point to the inherent risks of coal ash storage and the need for better regulations and enforcement. The disparity between the treatment of the Kingston community and the likely response had a similar disaster occurred in a wealthier area is also discussed, with many feeling that environmental injustice played a significant role. A few comments provide further context around coal ash disposal and regulatory failures, referencing other similar incidents. Some also express frustration with the slow pace of cleanup and the perceived lack of media attention the disaster received.
Summary of Comments ( 2 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43632459
Hacker News users discuss the struggles small towns face against big box stores, focusing on the inherent advantages of scale and efficiency these corporations possess. Commenters highlight the difficulty local businesses have competing on price and the allure of one-stop shopping for consumers. Some point out that big box stores often receive tax breaks and subsidies, further tilting the playing field. Others suggest that focusing on niche products, personalized service, and community building are key survival strategies for small businesses. The conversation also touches on the broader societal costs of big box retail, such as the decline of town centers and the homogenization of local culture. Finally, there's acknowledgement that consumer choices ultimately drive the market, and changing shopping habits is crucial for revitalizing small town economies.
The Hacker News post titled "Small Town America vs. Big Box Stores" linking to a Strong Towns article has generated a moderate discussion with several insightful comments. Many of the comments revolve around the complex relationship between big box stores, local businesses, and the overall economic health of small towns.
One recurring theme is the perceived initial economic boost followed by long-term decline that big box stores can bring. Commenters point out how these stores often draw customers away from existing local businesses, eventually leading to their closure and a homogenization of the retail landscape. This, in turn, can lead to a decline in the town's character and a reduction in overall economic activity as profits flow out of the community to corporate headquarters. A specific example cited is the decline in downtown areas after the arrival of Walmart on the outskirts.
Another significant point of discussion is the impact on local jobs. While big box stores initially create jobs, some commenters argue that these jobs are often lower-paying and less secure than those offered by locally owned businesses. Furthermore, the displacement of local businesses can result in a net loss of jobs within the community.
Several commenters also discuss the role of local zoning and planning regulations in shaping the retail landscape. Some advocate for stricter regulations to limit the proliferation of big box stores and protect local businesses, while others argue for a more laissez-faire approach. The debate touches upon the balance between free market principles and the need to preserve the unique character and economic viability of small towns.
The concept of "leakage" is brought up, describing how money spent at big box stores leaves the local economy, whereas money spent at local businesses tends to circulate within the community, generating more economic activity. This contributes to the argument that while big box stores might offer lower prices in the short term, they can ultimately contribute to a decline in the overall economic health of the community.
Finally, some commenters offer alternative perspectives, suggesting that big box stores can fill a need in small towns that lack access to certain goods and services. They also point out that the decline of small towns is a complex issue with multiple contributing factors, and it's not solely attributable to the presence of big box stores. These commenters advocate for a more nuanced approach to the issue, recognizing both the potential benefits and drawbacks of big box stores in small town America. They suggest focusing on strategies that allow both local and larger businesses to thrive.