Who’s No. 1? Santee Walmart Staff Marks 20th Anniversary with Chant

The Santee Walmart celebrated its 20th anniversary on Tuesday with a ceremony, cake and BBQ—and rousing chant. Opened in 1993, it was one of the first Walmart stores in San Diego County.

Several associates also celebrated their 20th anniversaries working for the company and attended the celebration, which was led by store manager Tina Hertenstein, who is also currently the Chair of the Board for the Santee Chamber of Commerce. Councilmember Rob McNelis, many members of the chamber and representatives of politicians were in attendance and spoke to the crowd.

The store is currently in the process of securing approval to expand to a Walmart Supercenter. Environmental Impact Reports for the project are currently underway, according to Walmart.

The expanded store would see the addition of fresh groceries, including fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, a deli and a bakery. According to Walmart, the expanded store would add approximately 85 new jobs, in addition to supporting dozens of temporary contract construction jobs during the construction phase. 

A Walmart press release contributed to this post.