LCHCC: Las Cruces is Closed for Business

Las Cruces is closed for business!
That’s right. The City of the Crosses is now known throughout the United States as the city that does not welcome business. Recently, the Las Cruces City Council voted unanimously to deny a zone change to commercial at the intersection of Tashiro Road and Valley Drive. This was widely speculated to be a proposed Wal-Mart Neighborhood market. This is an extremely dangerous message being sent by those entrusted with the well-being of Las Cruces through their obligations as a representative of this city. It is clear that the councilors that denied this request were sadly influenced by some citizens and a chamber that clearly opposes growth within our beautiful city.
Apparently they, along with the leadership of this city, do not support a free enterprise market or the notion of competition breeding success.
Prior to this vote, an article published in the Las Cruces Sun-News stated the local government’s attempts to interfere with private business. This article was particularly concerning since the statements made by city staff made a very dangerous commentary of a potential saturation of grocery stores in the region.
On the surface, it is clear that the statement does not pair up with reality and is contrary to city policies that have been exacted on the people for years. The City staff and its progressive supporters have been promoting and requiring healthy living (i.e. walkable communities, multi-modal transportation, mixed-use developments, etc.). There are currently 0.13 grocery stores per 1000 residents in Doña Ana County – well below the studied threshold.
There are strong correlations between the density of grocery stores in a neighborhood and the nutrition and diet of its residents. The availability and affordability of healthy and varied food options in the community increase the likelihood that residents will have a balanced and nutritious diet. A diet comprised of nutritious foods, in combination with an active lifestyle, can reduce the incidence of heart disease, cancer, and diabetes and is essential to maintain a healthy body weight and prevent obesity. Low-income and under-served communities often have limited access to stores that sell healthy food, especially fruits and vegetables.
Moreover, rural communities often have a high number of convenience stores, where healthy and fresh foods are less available than in larger, retail food markets.
Do we really want to be known as the city that does not welcome business? Let’s strive to promote a friendly environment that is conducive for the success of local businesses and one that attracts and welcomes new businesses as well.

By: Richard Aguilar (Las Cruces Sun-News)

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