A group in Essex Junction is opposing the proposed plan to construct an Amazon distribution center in the Saxon Hill area.
Phoenix Books, a locally-owned establishment, arranged the protest. The organizers stated, “Even though it hasn’t gone through Act 250 approval, the town’s Development Review Board cannot turn down any application that meets all the requirements, irrespective of the final user.”
During an earlier gathering, numerous residents voiced worries regarding the possible traffic effects that the 106,000-square-foot building could bring to the neighborhood.
"This is a complex problem. It goes beyond just literature,” stated Katie Desanto, who serves as the general manager at Phoenix Books. “My aim is to emphasize this point. The situation extends far beyond Essex. Its impact reverberates throughout the entire state.”
The neighbors have expressed worries regarding environmental effects, deteriorating traffic systems, and potential repercussions on the nearby economy.
On Thursday night, the Essex Development Review Board held a meeting, during which protesters stated their intention to participate and keep expressing their views to the board members.
I used to be an avid Amazon shopper as well since it was incredibly convenient," said Christina Desanto from San Diego to NBC5. "But after I began understanding the compensation structure and how it affected local businesses and small shop owners—even those within the Amazon ecosystem who receive only a tiny share of the revenue—it didn’t seem right.
READ MORE: A group stages a demonstration against the suggested Amazon distribution center in Essex Junction.
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