Walmart schedules public input meeting for Burbank

The public will get its first chance to speak directly to Walmart officials who plan to open a store in Burbank at a meeting scheduled for Oct. 17.

The meeting from 5 to 8 p.m. will take place at the site where they plan to build a new Walmart, 1301 N. Victory Place — the former Great Indoors site adjacent to the Empire Center.

The opening of a Walmart has riled many residents, who have raised concerns about increased traffic and the potential impact on existing businesses.

A Facebook page was created protesting the Walmart and several residents have spoken against the move during recent Burbank City Council meetings. There was also a rally against Walmart in front of City Hall last month.

Walmart officials contend that once residents hear more about the company, they’ll change their minds.

“From Day 1, we’ve said we want to come to Burbank the right way and this open house is a chance for us to answer questions, listen to concerns and share information about Walmart,” company spokesman Steven Restivo said in an email. “It’s clear that the more people learn about our stores, the more they see the value in bringing Walmart to their community.

For more information, call (818) 319-4414 or visit www.walmartcommunity.com.

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-- Mark Kellam, Times Community News