A Lakewood leader voiced concern Monday night about Fort Lewis' plans to build a shopping center on post, saying it was the equivalent of the military "giving us the middle finger."

Lakewood City Councilman Walter Neary made the remarks during a study session, as officials discussed the Army's plans.

Last year, the Army & Air Force Exchange Service announced it wants to open a $90 million mix of mid- to high-end retail and casual-dining restaurants linked together, along with a health club, furniture store and other amenities, by summer 2012.

When AAFES unveiled the idea of its 600,000-square-feet project, Fort Lewis' neighboring communities openly worried that a lifestyle center could discourage soldiers from frequenting their businesses. Many shoppers at Lakewood Towne Center, for example, are uniformed military personnel.

On Monday night, Neary shared his concern with the rest of the City Council.

"I just can't believe we can't have some say on whether or not the Army undercuts our economy," he said.

Lakewood is in the difficult position of trying to balance its financial interests with showing goodwill toward the post. Many residents have ties to Fort Lewis, and the city's economy is intertwined with the post, which is the leading employer in Pierce County. Hundreds of veterans also live and shop in the area, and could shift their business to a shopping center behind Army gates.

Deputy Mayor Don Anderson said Lakewood leaders should approach Army officials cautiously. City Manager Andrew Neiditz agreed, saying Lakewood shouldn't see itself in competition with Fort Lewis.

Lakewood sent a letter to military officials in October, asking that they take a more in-depth look at the proposal and its effects on communities as far as 50 miles away.

University Place and Lacey also sent letters, Neidtiz said.

The Army wrote back in November, saying the project wouldn't adversely affect neighbors. Neiditz, however, said he hopes the Army is willing to listen.

"We need to keep a dialogue going," he said.

Brent Champaco: 253-597-8653