To the editor:

I do not support the spending of our tax dollars to clean up the Farmland site. The next property owner should foot the bill with extensive EPA and KDHE oversight. Unfortunately, bankruptcy has been allowed as a tool for polluters to escape responsibility.

This is one more reason to bring green, nonpolluting light industry to our community, not to mention the fact that Lawrence is likely to have the educated work force.

If Douglas County taxpayers become responsible for the expense, the new owner(s) should pay back that cost to Douglas County.

Yes, it needs to be decontaminated so if we the taxpayers become the responsible party, instead of irresponsible Farmland, let’s find a way to put a lien on the property. As far as I know federal funds dried up in the ’90s. Obviously we cannot afford polluting industries.

What is the source of the cleanup money?

There are roads and bridges that need some major attention in beautiful Douglas County. Our county commissioners know this.

Richard Heckler,

Lawrence