[Vision2020] Elitist URA

[Tom Hansen]

After having posted Mr. Steed's letter concerning the URA, and following it up with Rose Huskey's letter, I have one thing to say . . .

http://www.TomandRodna.com/Soundbites/Comments.mp3

Courtesy of today's (March 4, 2015) Moscow-Pullman Daily News with special thanks to Rose Huskey.

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Letter: Elitist URA
After attending the very disappointing Moscow Urban Renewal Agency meeting Feb. 26, it became clear to me that beneath the fluff of the winning Sangria Restaurant project lurks an ugly truth about Moscow.
Board members Steve Drown, Steven McGeehan, Art Bettge and Brandy Sullivan are oblivious to the diverse demographics of the communities they pretend to represent. They are the appointed face of elitism and privilege who turn a blind eye to poverty, publicly apparent mental health issues and culturally marginalized folks. "Their" Moscow mirrors their own comfy lifestyle, not the struggles which frame the daily lives of so many residents. Their vote recognizes Moscow citizens who look like the people illustrated in Sangria's proposal - white, privileged and enjoying the good life.
Board members John Weber and Dave McGraw represented the fiscally responsible and compassionate citizens. They were outvoted.
Gritman's community-focused proposal included full disclosure. Gritman intended to pay full market price for the land and construction. They did not ask for a penny from the taxpayers. Property tax revenue from the Gritman proposal would be $70,000 a year with a completed building in 18 months. The employees would receive an average salary of $25 per hour. Gritman's proposal would strengthen the community by promoting equality and access to low cost or free dental, medical, pharmaceutical and mental health care.
In contrast, the Sangria proposal was based on fulfillment of the owner's dreams - courtesy of the taxpayers. They provided no documents addressing construction cost or wages. Construction will take at least five years. However, the owners did stress the attractive design features and claimed their establishment would be a magnet for entertainment and downtown living (at taxpayer subsidy). There will be no parking for restaurant patrons.
I can't think of a worse or more insulting way to spend taxpayer's money.
Rosemary Huskey, Moscow

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Seeya 'round town, Moscow, because . . .

"Moscow Cares" (the most fun you can have with your pants on)
http://www.MoscowCares.com
  
Tom Hansen
Moscow, Idaho

"There's room at the top they are telling you still.
But first you must learn how to smile as you kill,
If you want to be like the folks on the hill."

- John Lennon
  
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