The Washington Times recently documented the impact of Wal-Mart’s decision to leave Oak Hill and open up a larger “super center” in Fayetteville. The impact on Fayetteville’s city budget has been significant, but Oak Hill has developed a spunky attitude about filling the void.

The town set some revenue aside in a rainy-day fund, aware that Wal-Mart was about to leave. A fortunate increase in banking and contracting taxes countered the decrease in retail-business revenue, Mr. Hannabass said. Revenue actually rose since Wal-Mart left.

“There was a misperception that when Wal-Mart moved out, that was the end of Oak Hill,” he said, adding that the town should have been more concerned when Wal-Mart opened than when it left.

Wal-Mart has of course spawned a great deal of study and concern, including its own watchdog group. But it’s also putting its huge size and industry influence towards becoming a leader in the green energy movement. Whatever you think of its energy, outsourcing, supply chain, labor and marketing strategies, one thing is for sure: There are proven strategies for a community to thrive with or without a Wal-Mart in your backyard. 

As we’ve advocated through Create WV, developing a strong “sense of place” by investing in a unique, high quality cultural, entertainment, education and entrepreneurial community will position your region to for success in our global new economy – an economy where people yearn for more than just another big box retail store.

What are your thoughts on Wal-Mart’s effect on West Virginia?