Poll: Do You Want a CVS in St. James?

CVS wants to build a new store at the corner of Woodlawn and Lake avenues in St. James.

This plan is not sitting too well with residents in the area.

More than 150 people packed into a Smithtown Town planning board meeting last week to urge the board to reject a proposed zoning change from residential to central business zoning for the property where CVS wants to build, Newsday reported.

We gave Smithtown Patch Facebook page fans a chance to sound off on the CVS proposal as well.

Here’s what some of our readers had to say:

Christine Cintorino Stevens: As a Saint James resident and realtor, I feel that we need to hold on to our Mom-n-Pop stores -That’s what keeps Saint James the quaint little town that it is, it’s what buyers are looking for that the other surround towns don’t offer.

Helen Werner Mustapich: I am 1 block away from the location. I grew up in St. James and have seen many changes. Unfortunately not good ones. Our population has increased along with the number of vehicles. We do not need a CVS in our little congested town.

Karen Governale Gelles: The zoning change and requested variances for parking would do irreparable damage to the community. It will lower property values for neighboring homes, create dangerous traffic patterns on side streets, and bring middle of the night delivery truck noise.

Ryan Curtis: I think a CVS would be a great idea and very convenient. Better prices then Spages by far. I’m for it!!!

Ed Piataki: Do these companies have quotas? Like we really need 4 cvs’ 4 walgreens and 4 rite aides in every town? Do they get joy out of destroying mom n pop stores? Does the town supervisor or anyone else in charge think we need more of these stores right on top of each other?

Happie Pomisel: There is nothing we need less in that community and that location then another drug store (or bank!) Please don’t ruin the gateway to this area of St. James

Let’s hear from you. What do you think of the proposal to build a CVS in St. James? Vote in our poll and then sound off in the comments section below.

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Google Maps photo: The site in St. James where CVS wants to build a store.