Crestwood isn't the only place in South County where people have stood divided on the benefits of a new business. 

Last month the Shrewsbury Board of Aldermen approved Tax Increment Financing (TIF) and a Community Improvement District (CID) to build a new Walmart at Kenrick Plaza, despite a St. Louis County board vote against the project. Almost everyone has weighed in on the hot-button topic. More than 30 Patch readers responded to the board's final vote, ranging from outrage to grateful support.

Crestwood Court, of course, hasn't gotten far enough in the process to have a TIF request officially approved or denied by the city's board. (Their rejection of a project planner halted further movement on Centrum's last proposal.)

When it comes to new business, what matters to you? Does a request for public financing (like a TIF) make the project a no-go for you? Are you happy to see retail come into town, or does it have to be a certain type of retail?

Here's a look back on what Crestwood and Sunset Hills residents have had to say the past two months about :

• “Anyone - I repeat, anyone - who is interested in opening some retail business should be welcomed with open arms and afforded help to locate in vacant spaces,” Bill Keller said in a letter to South County Times in response to previous letters on the recent Walmart TIF. “This is no time to get picky or lay down barriers, or you can expect to be left holding the bag while other areas offer better deals.”
• “Historically, Crestwood has been a city that relies heavily on sales taxes, which allows property taxes to remain low. If we want to continue to be that kind of city, I think [Crestwood Court] development is critical,” Grant Mabie said in our most recent update on Crestwood Court.
  “I think there is a little bit of confusion existing as to Crestwood's risk in the project. Obviously, I think everyone in Crestwood wants to see a successful development there. “
• “Using TIF's as a jump start to lure in and establish unique business and entertainment venues will ultimately pay off in the long run if the redevelopment is done properly,” Patch commenter Tom Mahan said about the tax assistance previously requested for Crestwood Court redevelopment.
• “When a city has a huge empty mall, lots of offices and retail space for lease and the new businesses are thrift stores, it's in trouble,” says Patch commenter Stephen D in a recent story on the Savers opening in Crestwood.
• Despite a petition with 200+ signatures against a Petro Mart gas station and 24-hour convenience store next to the Interstate 44 overpass, Patch commenter Chris think it’s a “perfect use” of the former Bob Evans space. “And finally that land will be developed, getting rid of that eyesore.”
• “Crestwood if fast becoming THE place were you can buy a VHS tape for a $1, said commenter John Dough on a Savers store update.