A dispute over alcohol sales in southeast Dallas has led to accusations that a Dallas city councilman is standing in the way of economic progress.
The disagreement centers around the Buckner Market, 4710 South Buckner Boulevard. Many residents in the Buckner Terrace neighborhood would like to see it go.
7-11 has offered to buy the business and requested an alcohol permit, but councilman Kevin Felder, who represents the area, wants to deny the request.
Felder said there is a proliferation of alcohol retailers up and down Buckner Boulevard. He wants the neighborhood to hold out for something better.
"What is this area becoming?" Felder said. "You've got a beer and wine store there, you've got a beer and wine store here."
According to Dallas police records Buckner Market has been the site of five burglaries, four robberies, and three assaults.
Many residents were excited to learn that 7-11 had put in an offer to buy the store and make security improvements.
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They were shocked last week when Felder said he wanted to deny the company's request for an alcohol permit.
Korey Mack, the planning commissioner for Felder's district, said there is overwhelming support in the Buckner Terrace neighborhood for the store.\
Mack was part of the unanimous vote by the commission to approve the request.
"It is one of the least attractive retail convenient stores in our neighborhood. We'd be happy to see the Buckner Market era end sooner rather than later," said Mack. "A 7-11 store would have more lighting, in our opinion much better security, and just a fresher, cleaner, look. An overwhelming majority of people in our neighborhood think this is a good idea."
Felder said Mack is overstating the support for the plan, and he has concerns that 7-11 can secure the property.
The store's proximity to Skyline High School also bothers him.
Felder believes with more time he can get a better deal.
"I have only had this a little over a week now, but give me some time, you know, and let me reach out to those other entities that may want to come here," he said.
Mack said Felder's objections are standing in the way of making the area better.
Supporters of the plan say they're not thrilled with another place that sells beer and wine either, but they're willing to make that sacrifice for a better store.
"I do feel like their voices are being ignored. I wish our representative would take into account the overwhelming majority of our homeowners who really support this proposed development."
Felder accused Mack and others of playing politics with the issue.
"I know more about economic development than most of them who are doing the talking. If they could be patient, there's a possibility we can get something better than a 7-11, he said"
