Dollar stores face new restriction in Chicago

Dollar store companies looking to build in the city of Chicago will have to follow a new ordinance passed by the city council on Wednesday, reports the Chicago Tribune.

The small-box retailer ordinance, which became official following a 42-7 vote, restricts dollar stores from opening within a mile of pre-existing locations. Stores must also display signs with maintenance and emergency information. 

City officials are trying to prevent the over saturation of dollar stores while also calling on owners to take better care of their property. 

Dollar store operators said the ordinance places a pause on new store construction and argue it will not improve access to healthier food. 

Nineteenth Ward Alderman Matt O’Shea led the charge to approve the measure. O’Shea said dollar store companies like Dollar Tree, Dollar General, and Family Dollar did not want to negotiate in good faith or make any sacrifices. The alderman also said dollar stores hurt poor communities while also taking money from them, and that locations have accumulated over 3,300 code violations since 2017. 

Several aldermen talked about cleanliness, safety, and other issues with dollar stores before the measure was brought to a vote, and not a single one spoke in defense of the discount retailers. 

Dollar Tree released a statement claiming it will bring more harm than good to communities.

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