HUBBUB: Readers' thoughts on Crestview business growth

CRESTVIEW — Numerous readers shared their thoughts on Crestview business development.

Here are some of their comments:

PRIMETIME PRICES FOR POOR LOCATIONS

Crestview has always been poor for businesses — just look at how the only new businesses we ever get are hotels, banks and fast food — the three places Crestview needs less of, not more!

I had planned to open a real local small business two years ago, but the cheapest place I could find that was not 500 to 800 square feet wanted $1,500 to 3,000 for awful locations with bad buildings and surrounding businesses.

And then the Realtors wonder why good shops on Main Street sit empty for years, or are constantly changing tenants.

Land/building owners in this town think that their locations right next to the ghetto, that were built 50 to 60 years ago, are worth primetime prices.

I made the smart choice, and I'd just move any new business to Pensacola — cheaper rent, and more people and places anyways.

RYAN RIESS

BUSINESS FEES OUTRAGEOUS

Mr. Boyles is correct; we do not have more businesses such as shopping, restaurants, etc., because the city of Crestview is unfriendly to new business and charges outrageous fees.

Crestview is growing everyday — seems certain people in charge need to be replaced with more open-minded people like Mr. Boyles.

JACLYN HOSKINS

NOTHING HAPPENS HERE

This city suffers because they don't put any effort into attracting any business. Plus the stagnant events and social life here.

Nothing happens here. Same handful of events year after year. A stage at Spanish Trail that sits vacant most the year.

Why spend money here when it's better spent in Destin, Fort Walton Beach and surrounding cities.

AW RATLIFF

SECOND PUBLIX IS A GOOD THING

… A big company like Publix coming is a fantastic move in a better direction. If they see growth in this area, that is great. Others will follow in their steps.

I see it opening lots of doors for other companies wanting to come and build. Publix is a big name and others will want to be apart of it now.

Plus they always have some good places in their shopping centers, which will in turn be a good thing.

KIM LENNARD JOHNSON

DISAPPOINTED WITH PROGRESS SO FAR

I have lived in Crestview for 13 years and am so disappointed with how things are not progressing. All this town knows is fast food.

BONNIE SWEENEY RINCON

DEPARTMENT STORES NEEDED

This town needs more department stores! How is it that Wal-Mart has been able to remain the only place to shop for most things needed? And why exactly do we need yet another Waffle House and Publix? Why can't we get an IHOP, Target or Olive Garden?

MANUELA DAVIS

MORE JOBS A PLUS

Anything to create jobs is a plus, however it would be nice to add something new for kids, more dining options, etc.

TARA STEADMAN

UNWILLING TO GROW

We need more department stores, more restaurants — not repeating what we already have!

This place is so stagnant and unwilling to grow! Yes, fill those empty places on Main Street and around town — what is this city afraid of?

Well, at least we have Fort Walton and Pensacola to do our shopping. It’s a shame our money has to go to other towns and not ours! Shame!

LINDA

LOOK ON THE BRIGHT SIDE

People are always complaining. A Publix is a great source of jobs, not to mention the complex will bring other business.

Just be happy for growth and jobs.

TODD LAWRENCE

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This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: HUBBUB: Readers' thoughts on Crestview business growth