Tax incentives raise eyebrows for new Wal-Mart
By CHRIS HEINBAUGH - WFAA-TV (TX)
November 9, 2005
A new battle is brewing at Dallas City Hall over tax incentives for a Wal-Mart project that may go up near the corner of Abrams Road and Forest Lane.

The proposed 17 acre site is a place where retail has struggled and drug crime and prostitution has plagued.

However, supporters of the project said a Wal-Mart Supercenter could turn things around.

"I think it will be a catalyst to really redevelop all along that Forest Lane block face," said Bill Blaydes, Dallas City council member.

With it's proximity to the LBJ Freeway, Blaydes said it's the perfect spot. But some neighbors disagree with the council member.

"What do we need with a Supercenter?" said resident Robin John. "We got enough of those [and] we don't need another one."

John said she fears the shopping center will bring a jump in traffic for those nearby.

"I have a hard enough time to get into my place on Friday at 6:00 p.m.," she said.

While this may sounds like a typical Wal-Mart fight, there's a new twist to the proposal.

News 8 learned of a tax incentive crafted to secure the deal if needed. The city would return 50 percent of its sales tax revenue from the store up to a million dollars.

Officials said Wal-Mart hasn't asked for the deal. Instead, the developer asked to possibly pay purchase, relocation and demolition costs. Mayor Laura Miller said that's not the taxpayers' problem.

"I wasn't sure that was a good location for a Wal-Mart anyway, but I certainly don't want the taxpayers to have to subsidize it to the tune of a million dollars," she said.

But Blaydes said the city isn't getting much from the properties now. Wal-Mart would bring in new revenue and revive the area. He thinks it's a good deal.

"Long term, I don't think there's any doubt about it," he said.

The council will be asked to vote on zoning changes to clear the way for the Wal-Mart.

However, Miller said she felt the council should have been told the project might eventually include tax incentives. She said the council members should see the whole picture before making their decision.