Dear Editor: Support for Western Legacy Center

Dear Editor,

In the Letters to the Editor, I read the concerns of an unnamed business owner about the Western Legacy Center (WLC). The issues I’ve read seem outlandish, to me at least.

The first comment about it residing on the outskirts of town makes no sense. Many businesses (including Jefferson Fresh Foods, Whitehall Truck & Towing, Liberty Place, etc.) are not located centrally in town yet are still a vital part of the town’s businesses. I don’t see an issue if the WLC is directing people to local shops, the Jefferson Valley Museum, and restaurants (as they have promised to do).

Regarding food within the WLC, there has been no definitive answer as to what that may entail. It could mean Montana-made chocolate bars and jams; it could mean something more. One would think restaurants would jump on the opportunity to get their product into the WLC or ask to put their menu on display. If the restaurants are concerned about an eatery, they should voice their concerns to those in charge at the WLC.

The comment regarding combining the Jefferson Valley Museum with the WLC is valid; however, it is a discussion between the two museums and does not involve the public. While the WLC may be a non-profit entity, it will need to make money to stay open; they have every right to choose where to conduct business. Museums are learning centers and thus can teach different lessons in multiple places.

When did competition become a bad thing? If people strive to be their best in business, the customers will come. If anything, competition helps everyone strive to be better. Using state funds for the betterment of education is always a good choice.

The WLC has been very open in addressing the community. Those with concerns should speak with those in charge of WLC.

In the end, it is not the community’s choice as to whether a business, a museum, or a person can come into a community. The WLC may not have thought everything through yet, but it is their right to try to make their plans in Whitehall work. They have included the community in their plans, which they did not have to do, which I believe is commendable. We shall see what this new opportunity will bring - isn’t it better for us to support all the new businesses in town and give them a chance to prove themselves? Let’s not condemn them before they’ve even had a chance to open their doors. This isn’t a chain store trying to take over.

Kristy Heppler

Whitehall, Montana