My name is Leo Karruli, a dedicated investor who left my family in Florida to contribute to the revitalization of the beautiful Johnstown area. One of my main concerns is the future of the former Sears building in our beloved Johnstown Galleria Mall. There are plans to convert this retail space into a storage facility, which I believe will have detrimental effects on our community.

Storage facilities do not stimulate local economies or provide significant employment opportunities like retail does. According to data from IBISWorld, for every $1 spent at local businesses, 45 cents is reinvested locally while only 15 cents returns when spending at chain outlets. This shows how crucial it is for us to maintain retail spaces that can host local businesses and continue stimulating our economy.

Moreover, storage facilities pose potential hazards such as fires and pest control issues that could deteriorate the value of our mall and its tenants. A study by Property Casualty 360 reveals that self-storage units are more susceptible to fire hazards due to their design and use.

We cannot let this happen! We need your support in preventing this rezoning from taking place. Show Richland Township that we do not approve of this addition and neither should they! By signing this petition, you're standing up for job creation, economic stimulation, safety standards and preserving the integrity of our community's shopping center - Leo Karruli

Please sign today!