ELIZABETH, Colo. -- A new Wal-Mart is set to open this summer in the small town of Elizabeth leaving some to wonder whether the big box retailer is destroying the fabric of main street America or making it stronger.

This will be the first Wal-Mart in Elbert County and it is expected to be a significant boost to the county tax base.

And while its prices might save consumers money, its prices might also put the little guy in town out of business.

"She has unique gifts you don't find in a typical store," said Elbert County resident Mary Teter while shopping at the boutique Jabberwocky Books, Toys and Dolls on Main Street in Elizabeth.

Teter said she is hoping Jabberwocky Toys and other mom-and-pops don't go under when retail giant Wal-Mart opens its doors.

“It's a difficult thing to do in this chain world we live in, but we try not to shop (at Wal-Mart),” said Teter.

"That's what's neat about small towns. The community helps each other and shops local when they can," said Brook Briddle, who owns Powder River Custom Hats next door to Jabberwocky.

Wal-Mart started hiring Tuesday in Elizabeth.

“It will definitely bring in jobs,” said Elizabeth store manager Kevin Ray. “And not just jobs, but careers for so many people.” Ray started working at Wal-Mart in Riverton, Wyo., at 16. Fifteen years later, he now has his own store.

As you might expect, Wal-Mart’s presence in Elizabeth has both its critics and its cheerleaders.

“There's always those who believe it will change the small town atmosphere,” said Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce executive director Beverly Durant. “Most of us feel it will be good."

Wal-Mart said its Elizabeth store might even increase business in Elbert County.

“It'll bring in tax revenue,” said Ray. “And our motto is saving people money so they can live better.”

Lesa Deason Crowe is opening up a branch of her advertising and public relations firm in Elizabeth because of the growth.

“When we see Wal-Mart come into a community we know something good is happening,” said Crowe. “And I have no problem walking in on their coattails.”

But others can't help but worry it might destroy everything they've come to know and love about this place. Like Jabberwocky.

“My family would be crushed. My kids would be crushed,” said Teter.

There are only about 1,500 people living within the city limits of Elizabeth. But, an estimated 10,000 live just outside the town.

The Chamber said studies show most of those people drive to Parker and Castle Rock to do the majority of their shopping and now they won't have to.

The Elizabeth Wal-Mart is scheduled to open August 19. Wal-Mart plans to hire 300 associates for that store. Interested applicants can apply online, or from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the hiring center at 341 S. Main Street in Elizabeth.