In a recent meeting, Cindy Morgan, representing the board of trustees of Puritan United Methodist Church, voiced strong opposition to a proposed Dollar General store adjacent to the church's property. Established in 1838, the church has been a longstanding fixture in the community, and Morgan emphasized its integral role in local life, highlighting the church's outreach efforts and community events.

Morgan expressed concerns that the new store would negatively impact the church's activities, particularly those held on the south lawn, which could be disrupted by increased traffic and noise. She noted that the area is already prone to accidents, with vehicles frequently colliding with the church's property. The absence of sidewalks leading to the proposed store raises safety concerns, particularly for children who might use the church grounds as a shortcut.

Additionally, Morgan raised environmental concerns, requesting a comprehensive study to assess the potential impact of the Dollar General's commercial well and septic system on local groundwater and the church's own septic system. The trustees are particularly worried about the implications for water quality and the risk of flooding from retention ponds.

The church's board of trustees is advocating for a thorough review of these issues before any development proceeds, emphasizing their commitment to the community and the preservation of their historic site.