Should Fair Oaks Limit Number of 'Big Box' Stores?

It seems like Fair Oaks is home to a variety of large and small business chains, both corporate and homemade.

As , looking at ways to improve business in The Village, smaller towns in outlying Marin County communities are considering placing restrictions on chain retail stores and restaurants.

At last week's FOVEC meeting, members discussed possible research on planning departments, universities and other businesses to find out what the committee would need to complete its business market study. A part of that study included ensuring the types of business FOVEC included met a certain aesthetic congruent with existing businesses in The Village.

FOVEC chair Greg Vincent has expressed the idea that including larger corporate chains in The Village might work against what FOVEC is trying to accomplish as according to the committee's strategic plan. That plan includes providing a diverse assortment of businesses that helped not only improve commerce in that area, but maintain a vision of The Village.

Should FOVEC consider restricting certain types of businesses over others? More specifically, should FOVEC restrict the inclusion of bix box businesses in The Village?

McDonald's Out, What Moves In?

The Village is not the only shopping area where to see its businesses either move out. Shopping centers throughout Fair Oaks face similar hurdles where businesses are shutting down or simply relocating to adjacent lots. Some of those businesses being corporate chains, like a McDonald's that moved from one location to another less than 200 yards away.

Months have passes since any forward progress has been made as to what should be built on what is now just a barren spot where a McDonald's once stood. The when last Fair Oaks Patch reported on the topic.

Fair Oaks' Chains

Fair Oaks is home to many "big box" stores. At the Madison Mall, most of the businesses are national chains, like or and restaurants like .

Across the street at the Madison Pavillion other corporate chains like  and  are main attractions along with corporate supermarket . However, the shopping center is also home to pet supplies store  owned by Fair Oaks native .

Finch's story drew local controversy when competing big box . Finch was able to raise enough money, however, to opt out of her lease and move her business to its current location.

Do you think Fair Oaks should have restrictions on the amount of big box stores allowed in the community's limits? Tell us your thoughts in the Comments below.