The following is a selection of responses from leaders who opted to leave comments on the questions related to Amazon’s growth in Central Iowa.

Agree or disagree: The growing number of Amazon facilities in Central Iowa will help local businesses.

Comments from guest editor Jake Christensen, a local developer: Leaders are split on whether the growing number of Amazon facilities in Central Iowa will help local businesses. Some say that attracting a top-tier business like Amazon is good for our community and brings more jobs and talent to Central Iowa. Other leaders are uncertain and some feel strongly that Amazon will hurt local business, especially smaller local retailers.

Leaders point out that Amazon can help some businesses increase their distribution channels and help others manage supply chain challenges. The commodity product distribution is likely to migrate to Amazon-type delivery platforms, while unique, experiential retail will continue to be in distinctive locations.

Agree:

“World-class facilities will attract world-class talent.”
– Mike Zuendel, founder/CEO, Legacy Bridge Private Family Offices

“Doesn’t matter where they’re at. Local businesses can partner with Amazon and gain a worldwide distribution.”
– Dave Halfpap, board member, Mercy Foundation

Unsure:

“Easier to obtain quick shipments, but Amazon is monopolizing the market as well, thereforeputting small businesses under.”
– April King, organizational change coach, American Enterprise Group

“I am sure it speeds up the supply chain for some businesses, but creates a competitive disadvantage for others.”
– Doug Wilson, president, Integrated Telehealth Partners

Disagree:

“Erodes small business.”
– Scott Carlson, owner, Side of Ranch Inc.

“It truly depends on whether Amazon, along with providing jobs, reinvests in the community. Iowa is a state of communities. It is what we are built on.”
– Wendy Current, vice president, training and development director, Ames National Corp.

“They don’t pay taxes, so the rest of the region’s businesses are subsidizing the roads and infrastructure their business model depends on. Meanwhile, they are stealing employees since they have the extra money available for increased wages.”
– Brendan Comito, COO, Capital City Fruit Co.