It's no secret that the assortment of independently-run, local businesses in Tampa Bay is one of the great things that makes our community so unique and vibrant.  While there are tons of great, local businesses, they still have to coexist alongside dozens of national chain businesses and others throughout the area.  For the most part, these two sides get along.

And sometimes, they don't.  Case in point; Family Dollar's plans to open a new store in Seminole Heights, a burgeoning North Tampa neighborhood driven by a huge assortment of locally owned and operated businesses.  These businesses collectively oppose this Family Dollar store opening because they feel it will drive business away from establishments like their own that need it.

They may have a point, too.  With over 7,000 stores in 45 states, Family Dollar is a very popular chain to say the least.  So popular, in fact, that two Family Dollar locations exist less than a mile and a half away from their new, proposed location at 5100 N. Florida Ave.

Does Seminole Heights really need another Family Dollar?  Business owners and many residents don't think so due to these issues of local business loss and other locations conveniently located just walking distances away.

Drive through Seminole Heights and you'll notice the election-like signs posted in yards and in front of business.  Scour the web and you'll find NoFamilyDollar.com and a Facebook page rallying against the opening of this new store.  This is a serious issue to Seminole Heights and one the Family Dollar corporation has noticed.

The company says they're willing to sit down with those who oppose the opening and discuss why a new Family Dollar in Seminole Heights might be a good idea.  One benefit they claim is that the new store would bring 8 to 10 new jobs to the area.

We'll keep you posted as more news arises regarding the proposed Family Dollar in Seminole Heights.