Group mounts effort to block dollar stores from opening in eastern Oregon

Chain stores like Dollar General and Family Dollar have been popping up in eastern Oregon. An opposition group known as No Dollar General has formed to stop the spread of such stores. While Dollar General successfully opened a store in the city of Wallowa recently, the opposition group is still fighting to keep the chain from expanding in the region.

Last month, the Joseph City Council passed an ordinance banning “formula” businesses from operating within city limits. The policy targets stores that have “prescribed standards and features,” such as dollar stores, while allowing for some exemptions. Antonio Sierra, OPB’s rural communities reporter, shares his reporting on this issue.