A protest is underway in Essex Junction against the proposed construction of 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 an Act 250 review, the town’s Development Review Board cannot turn down any application that meets all the requirements, irrespective of the final user.”
Subscribe to our NewslettersDuring 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 books,” stated Katie Desanto, who serves as the general manager at Phoenix Books. “My aim is to emphasize this point. The impact stretches far wider than Essex. There’s a domino effect influencing the entire state.”
The neighbors have expressed worries regarding environmental effects, deteriorating traffic systems, and potential repercussions on the nearby economy.
The Essex Development Review Board convened on Thursday night, during which protesters stated their intention to participate and keep voicing their opinions 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 when 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 portion of the revenue—it became clear that this wasn’t ideal.
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READ THE FULL STORY: A group stages a demonstration against the suggested Amazon distribution center in Essex Junction.
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