The new facility helps to diversify the job market and drive wages up for similar work.

As a Lewiston city councilor, I am compelled to respond to Jim Carignan’s “Front Porch” column (Sept. 4) denouncing the importance of the new Wal-Mart distribution center on Alfred Plourde Parkway.

Mr. Carignan stated, “Maine cannot link its future to this kind of development,” adding if we pursue these “dead-end types of economic activity, the future of our young people will not be very bright.” I totally disagree.

He adds, “The technologically driven economy of the 21st century will reward those who have knowledge and skills, as well as entrepreneurial instincts, to function effectively in a fast changing world.”

Lewiston certainly recognizes that in today’s economy, technological expertise plays an important role, and I’m proud to say that Lewiston is well on its way toward providing such educational opportunities. Through L-A College, Andover College, Central Maine Community College and Bates College, residents may develop their knowledge and skills in a variety of disciplines, to include the arts, business, technology and leadership. Lewiston is moving from a manufacturing-based economy to a diversified economy. The course is set, but the change will take time.

I believe Lewiston and the state need to encourage a wide range of economic activity. Lewiston suffered economic hardship when local textile and shoe mills left; however, with today’s more diversified economy, we have outstanding health care, financial services, telecommunications and telemarketing, quality education, precision manufacturing, printing and wholesale and distribution sectors. We are building on our strengths and exploring future possibilities.

Part of what has made Wal-Mart the largest retailer in the world is the sophistication of its distribution network and systems. It is world-class, and it heavily utilizes technology. It was also evident at the Aug. 3 ribbon cutting that employees are greatly valued.

Mr. Carignan stated the average pay at the distribution center is $13 per hour and that many jobs have lower wages. In fact, the starting pay at the center is $13 per hour, with an increase to $13.50 after a probationary period. There are also other regular wage step-ups linked to employment length. To compete with Wal-Mart’s $13 per hour starting pay, other area businesses with similar jobs increased their pay from $10 to $13 per hour, putting an additional $6,000 per year in local families’ pockets – certainly a positive.

Mr. Carignan also stated that Wal-Mart provides health insurance for only 45 percent of its employees. Eight different plans are offered to meet individual and family needs. Also, after a year’s employment, there is no lifetime cap on health insurance. Other benefits include 401(k)s, company-paid life insurance and company stock purchase plans. That’s not dead-end employment.

Another positive is Lewiston experiences a real “win” in regards to property tax revenue, job creation and expanded industrial and commercial capacity. The State Planning Office has estimated that money recirculated within Maine’s economy from the center’s $12 million payroll will result in an additional 474 jobs and fuel more than $39 million in additional payroll and expenditures. Again, not a “dead-end type of economic activity.”

Lewiston will average $500,000 annually in tax revenue from the center, and after tax increment financing expires, the city will receive an estimated $900,000 annually. The state also estimates to annually receive an additional $900,000 in personal income tax revenue and $400,000 in sales tax revenue. Again, not a dead end.

Mr. Carignan bemoaned Wal-Mart getting “$17 million from Maine folks.” That is incorrect. Wal-Mart was not handed a free ride. The bulk of the $17 million was invested in expanding Lewiston’s industrial and commercial capacity. Water and sewer systems were upgraded, roads were improved, a new electrical substation was built and the turnpike interchange is being improved. These improvements don’t benefit only Wal-Mart; they benefit the entire city.

These infrastructure upgrades were essential for Lewiston to experience additional economic development, and new tax revenues from the project were a key source of funds for those improvements. Funding for these improvements also came from the city’s project partners, including Central Maine Power Co., the Maine Department of Transportation and the Maine Turnpike Authority.

Also included in the $17 million was the creation of a new seven-lot business park, and four of those lots already have committed projects, resulting in employment and tax-base enhancement. Again, not a dead-end picture.

Both past and present elected officials, municipal staff and community partners have worked smart toward Lewiston’s growth and property tax relief. The center is a $60 million investment in Lewiston, is here to stay, and provides more than 500 jobs. It is the first chapter in an unfolding success story of diversified entrepreneurs taking a serious look at Lewiston. The distribution center’s presence is definitely a plus for Lewiston, and in the words of Mayor Lionel C. Guay Jr., “How sweet it is.”

Mark W. Paradis is a Lewiston city councilor.