Developer Chris Anderson advocates for local project amid Walmart concerns in Edmond

In the heart of Edmond, Oklahoma, the city council convened on July 14, 2025, to address pressing concerns surrounding local development, particularly the contentious proposal for a new Walmart. The atmosphere was charged as residents and business owners voiced their frustrations and hopes for the future of their community.

Chris Anderson, a prominent local business owner and property holder in Downtown Edmond, took to the podium to express his discontent with the current development climate. “It’s just become too hard to develop in Edmond. It’s just not fun anymore,” he lamented, highlighting the challenges that have stifled growth and innovation in the area. Anderson emphasized the importance of considering both quantitative and qualitative aspects of development, urging the council to weigh the needs of residents and property owners alike.

The discussion quickly turned to the proposed Walmart development, which has sparked significant opposition among residents. Anderson pointed out that if the developer were proposing a Trader Joe's instead, the response might be markedly different. “For some reason, it’s Walmart,” he noted, suggesting that the brand's reputation has overshadowed the merits of the local developer, Mr. Tapp, who has deep ties to the community.

As the meeting progressed, council members engaged in a detailed examination of the development proposal, addressing concerns about stormwater management and urban forestry regulations. City officials reassured attendees that the project would not exacerbate existing water runoff issues, adhering strictly to city ordinances designed to protect the environment.

The council also discussed the legal framework surrounding the development, referencing past court rulings that clarified the city’s obligations in reviewing site plans. David Fox, a long-time participant in the development discussions, reiterated that the current proposal meets all necessary requirements, emphasizing that the city has a duty to approve plans that comply with established ordinances.

As the meeting drew to a close, the council acknowledged the complexity of balancing community sentiment with the need for development. The discussions highlighted a broader struggle within Edmond—a desire for growth and modernization, tempered by the need to preserve the character and needs of the community. With the council's decision looming, residents left the meeting with a mix of hope and apprehension, eager to see how their voices would shape the future of their beloved city.