Wal-Marts reconsidered

Charie Araullo is on maternity leave from her sales job and tending to her 4-month-old at home. She'd like to see a Wal-Mart in Leslieville.

"Wal-Mart prices are affordable and it's one-stop shopping," the 27-year-old said, explaining she now has to drive to one on Eglinton Ave. in Scarborough for baby supplies. "For people on a tight budget and families, Wal-Mart is great."

That's not always an easy sentiment to express.

Many in the Leslieville neighbourhood, including area Councillor Paula Fletcher, vehemently oppose a proposed $200-million big-box retail centre that could include a Wal-Mart.

But voices quietly rising in support of the project are accusing Fletcher's backers of elitism and insensitivity to the needs of low-income shoppers who could benefit from the "value shopping" the 650,000-square-foot development would bring to the area.

In front of the nearby Price Chopper discount store on Leslie St., a woman who said the area needs a Wal-Mart was nevertheless nervous about giving her name.

"I have friends who are against (the project) and they'll kill me,'' she said.

With the shopping centre already vetoed by the city, the issue goes to the Ontario Municipal Board next month.

Work on the project would begin next year, creating 1,800 construction jobs. At completion in 2011, it will create 2,000 permanent jobs, Smith says, with an annual payroll of $60 million.

"We believe this is significant. Further, we are committed to making these jobs available first and foremost to local residents,'' he said.

A major worry for neighbours is the traffic it will bring into a neighbourhood yearning for a more walkable, urban vibe.