As a resident and small farmer in Lake County I would like to voice my opposition to the expansion of Dollar General Stores into Middletown and Kelseyville.

I believe the design and corporate philosophy behind the development of these small box stores does not fit with the community spirit and image of these two rural towns.

I also feel that the architectural style of these stores will damage the small town image and destroy the unique character of each which makes them attractive to tourists and particularly visitors interested in Lake County’s growing wine industry.

In the long run I believe these retail outlets will prove to be a poor investment both in economic terms and in terms of the social fabric of the community.

I would disagree with the developer’s suggestion that Dollar General is respectful and sensitive to community concerns.

I do trust however that the Board of Supervisors has the long-term interests of these communities in mind and understands what it takes to create “A friendly country town.”

Daniel Desmond owns Perini Ranch in Lower Lake, Calif.