Jamestown (CSi) A survey of Jamestown Area Chamber of Commerce members shows 51 percent of the 156 respondents of a Chamber survey, say the city should be a part in retail economic development.

The survey asked “Should the city of Jamestown engage in retail economic development? And should public funds be used by the city of Jamestown to purchase land for retail real estate development?” Those responding were also allowed to add comments with their responses.

Asked if the city should purchase land for retail real estate development. and 51 percent, said no.

The survey was a result of a big box home improvement store looking to locate in Jamestown.

The City of Jamestown has announced a developer’s agreement with R.H. Johnson Co. to purchase land in southwest Jamestown with the intent of bringing either a Menards, Home Depot or Lowes to Jamestown.

The agreement requires the city to purchase the land for the development, and the city to pay fees of up to $900,000 to the developer as the project progresses.

The results of the poll distributed to 450 members, will be used by the Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors when it formulates a position on the project at its January meeting.