To the editor:

I can understand why some people oppose the construction of a new Wal-Mart on Sixth Street because the proposed size and location would create serious issues with city planning (increased traffic, a nearby high school, safety of nearby residential neighborhoods, etc.).

But for those who are crying wolf, preaching that a new Wal-Mart would drive business away from the dearly held downtown district, I have a few questions for you. If we hold the premise that all retail chains are evil and result in the shutting down of local businesses, then why do we have double standards against Wal-Mart?

Have we forgotten that we so fondly buy our groceries at Dillons, rent our movies at Blockbuster, change our oil at Jiffy Lube and, of course, hit the lines at Wendy’s/ McDonald’s /Burger King for a quick lunch? Don’t you think that these chain businesses offer unduly tough competition to the local video rental, the friendly neighborhood mechanic or the corner deli? Then why do we not vehemently protest when these establishments open new outlets?

Because maybe the answer to these questions is that this is what’s in the consumer’s best interest. I would like to see how those of you who blindly oppose this new Wal-Mart are able to go a single day without the Dillons, McDonald’s, Radio Shack, Goodyear Tire — the list goes on.

So go ahead. Call me a capitalist pig. At least I know that when I shop at Wal-Mart, I’m making an informed choice that’s in my best interest.

Chetan Khanna,

Lawrence