We, the undersigned residents, stakeholders, and advocates of Wilmington’s N. Market Street Commercial Corridor and surrounding communities are writing to formally express our opposition to the approval of any permit, license, or certificate of occupancy that would allow for any new (conversions, re-openings, start-up) “convenience stores” on or surrounding N Market Street.

Our community is already oversaturated with “convenience stores” that contribute little to our well-being and too often diminish the quality of life in our neighborhoods. These stores frequently:

Sell unhealthy, processed food and sugary drinks with no access to fresh produce,

Offer poor or even disrespectful customer service,

Operate with minimal regard for safety, cleanliness, or community accountability, and

Undermine the economic diversity and health equity we desperately need.

Instead of yet another business that perpetuates harm, we are demanding investments in food sovereignty, wellness, and community-driven economic development. We ask that you pause any permits concerning "convenience stores” and support the pending City Council resolution introduced by Councilwoman Shané Darby to:

Establish a temporary moratorium on new convenience stores in oversaturated areas,

Require community input and impact review,

Create pathways for equitable commercial zoning policies that reflect residents’ actual needs.

We are not opposed to development—we are opposed to development that ignores and disrespects the voices of the people most impacted.

Please stand with us. Decline this permit and support the movement toward a healthier, safer Wilmington.