SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla.,None — Several homeowners in Seminole County are appealing the construction for a new Walmart right near their neighborhood.
Susan Giarrusso likes her neighborhood off of Aloma Avenue the way it is now, but she fears it could be ruined when a Walmart arrives.
"It's really peaceful and quiet," said Giarrusso.
A retailer wants to build a near 100,000 square foot store on Aloma Avenue near S.R. 417, right next to her neighborhood.
"With a 24-hour operation, we're greatly concerned about the noise, the lights, and the crime that's going to be brought in with it," explained Giarrusso.
Several homeowners along Aloma Avenue are fighting Walmart. They want to stop the store from being built, and are appealing to County Commissioners. But Walmart isn't waiting, they've already started construction.
The county approved the plans for the store back in April, and soon after residents started flooding commissioners with letters, worried about safety, crime, and traffic.
"The number of cars that's going to bring, just for that traffic alone, plus they're going to be open 24-hours a day. That's going to impact our communities greatly," said Giarrusso.
Giarrusso said this part of Aloma Avenue can't handle anymore construction. About 900 new homes have gone up in recent years, along with other large grocery and clothing stories. She's hoping at least the county will force the retailer to scale down.
"Downsize the store to a grocery store, or maybe a brand new mini Walmart," said Giarrusso.
Seminole County Commissioners will hear the homeowners' appeals on Tuesday.
WFTV
