about time,I’ve lived here for 8 years, and had a business here for 25 years, and am sick of having to go to bismarck if i need anything but a tank of gas, a loaf of bread, a bottle of booze, or a pipe fitting. along with my business , goes my sales tax, and that tank of gas that i would have gotten in mandan. i think the city fathers should have their asses kicked for not pursuing this wallmart thing a long time ago. so get after it guys, don’t let them get away. give them the tax breaks that they need, and anything else they require. get on your knees mayor, if thats what it takes. stop driving everything across the river.

City fathers? Are you refering to some long defunct sexist governing entity? Both Ellen Huber, Mandan Business Development Director, and Dot Frank, Mandan City Commissioner, were quoted in the Bismarck Tribune Walmart article, both serve the city of Mandan, and I assure you that neither are fathers.

And to the issue of Walmart: You talk so narrow mindedly about Walmart. You think they are the only possible answer to the sales tax problem? And to go so far as to beg?

Your value of Walmart is based on ignorance. Try doing some reading from independant, well researched, well studied reports regarding the impact of Walmart not only on a community, but on the world. Studies show repeatedly that they transfer jobs in a community, and have little to no net creation. They also lower overall community payroll, increase burden on social services given by local governments, contribute disproportionally to corporate wealth, oppress millions of laborers with horrific work conditions worldwide and fight aggressively against unionization both domestically and abroad. I mention here but a few of the negative impacts of Walmart that have been proven. But yes, in the bottom line, their prices are lower as a result of all of the aforementioned evil practices and others. That’s the bait.

So, the question is, does Mandan want to open their eyes and really make an informed decision or respond to superficial analysis and impulse?

Mandan could pursue development of retail per the lead and ideas many communities have implemented nationwide that do not succumb to the woes of Walmart. Mandan could invest in creating a stable set of retailers that increases payscale, skills, and especially unique offerings. Obviously that would take some work. Right now its bow down before the “W” and worship. The kingdom of Walmart is ugly; I strongly recommend that you go find out what it’s really about.

“city fathers”? “guys”? Bill Gereszek, you’re an uninformed sexist jerk.