Proposed location for co-op a mistake

I believe the proposed move of New Pioneer Co-op to the corner of Gilbert and College streets in a multistory, multimillion-dollar condo building is a mistake. I will be voting “no.” Because of the location on a congested street and the inconvenience of the parking ramp, the proposed store would be the best competitive gift we could give to Hy-Vee - where surface parking is free and many health food prices are already lower than the co-op's.

I think it is unlikely that this proposed relocated store will result in sufficient sales in the long run to make the move advantageous or even feasible. And in the effort to pay off the costs incurred, our current ability to pay a living wage with benefits and bonuses to our employees and to carry out our many outreach efforts in community charities and local food initiatives will be seriously curtailed or lost.

The letter members are receiving from the board urging a “yes” vote implies board unanimity. This is not the case. A longer letter expressing my dissent is on the New Pioneer website.

Caroline Dieterle

Board of directors

New Pioneer Co-Op

Iowa City