To the editor:

I don’t understand the tax abatement program. Why is the city/county using my tax dollars to bribe a large company to locate here? This is unfair and unethical. Small business owners who receive no tax abatements must exist without such incentives. Some must compete (either directly or for qualified employees) with these large companies who get the bribes.

These companies are only moving here because they are being bribed. They are not committed to the community, unlike some of us who chose to live and start a business here because of the merits that Lawrence has to offer. Once the bribes end they will pack up and go to wherever the highest bribe is paid.

As a small business owner, either the tax abatements should be eliminated or else every business in Lawrence should apply. I think even a home-based business can show $1.25 benefit for every $1.

Tax abatements are not fair and do not build a good lasting community relationship!

Kent Pennybaker,

Lawrence