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Letter: Hard to figure benefits of keeping BevMo out

The argument to keep BevMo from settling specifically on Santa Cruz Avenue a few years ago was only slightly more compelling than the

prohibitive efforts this time around at the former Chili's site on El Camino Real.

In summary, it is ever-apparent that those leading the opposition from Beltramo's, Draeger's, and others, are acting solely in their own self-interest to preserve their own profits.

While it goes without being said that some may prefer having the peace of mind of patronizing local merchants, let the actions of the consumers speak for themselves. If BevMo delivers a less-expensive and comparable alternative, why should we as consumers have to pay more to preserve businesses that would prefer decreased competition masked under the notion of "protecting local businesses?" Let capitalism prevail: Let BevMo sink or swim.

Job creation and revenue are in limbo pending this unnecessary drawn-out debate: 1. revenue to Menlo Park for construction improvements, permits, tax; 2. rent for a currently vacant space; 3. lease commission; 4. tenant improvement project for local general contractor and sub contractors; 5. increased state and federal tax from lease revenue, new employee salaries, and BevMo profits; 6. Locals employed in store as clerks, janitors, and so on.

Paul A. Lewis, Jennings Lane, Atherton