Letter to the Editor: Basin doesn’t need another dollar store

Dear editor:

As a Basin business owner, I strongly oppose the proposed Dollar General. In the March 12 edition of the Basin Republican Rustler, Danae Bales clearly explained why Basin is not a good fit, and I would like to reinforce that message.

If Dollar General believes its model benefits communities, why is it not pursuing locations in Powell or Cody, where the population and infrastructure are better suited? Basin already has a Family Dollar, which began as a dollar store and has since abandoned true dollar pricing. Adding another chain would not meet a new need — it would simply draw sales away from existing local businesses.

Basin does need more downtown businesses, but what we need are locally owned ones. National chains extract profits from our town, while local businesses reinvest here — supporting school events, youth activities, Home for the Holidays, and other community traditions. Choosing local ownership keeps our dollars working for Basin, not for corporate shareholders elsewhere.

Our town’s future depends on strengthening local enterprise, not replacing it. Local dollars support our school events, youth activities, Lilac Days, Home for the Holidays, and our county fair, etc. 

Leslie Jones

Local Basin Business Owner