With Wal-Mart slated to come to D.C., there has been some controversy, primarily regarding the minimum wage it will pay. Mayor Vincent Gray recently struck down a bill that would have made Wal-Mart pay their employees a minimum wage of $12.50. Another controversy involves how this super store will affect other businesses in the area. Yet, despite the issues surrounding it, many residents of the District view Wal-Mart as a positive development for the community.
James Peters, a third generation resident of the District and a worker at a locally owned family business – a shoe store – considers it a good move for the community and businesses in the area. Peters express those considerations with DC Spotlight as both sides of the argument was explored from the community itself.