To the editor:

In response to Mr. Laughlin’s Jan. 27 letter about cost versus value and the construction of the new fire station, as a taxpayer to Lawrence maybe I can clarify.

I know of no one who does not respect the fire department employees and medics and, likewise, the teachers.

The value comes from those in the profession and what they contribute to their profession. Their commitment will follow whether in a $4.5 million building or a $3.5 million building.

If the value is in the building, why then is it imperative that South Junior High be torn down when that building could be turned over to parks and rec, and the city and school district could use it for many community functions?

A new junior high needs to be built near the existing Prairie Park School as that is where the growth is taking place. Likewise, the new fire station is being built near the university and will house equipment to serve the needs of the university for fire protection.

Public buildings need not be opulent, but functional. The value of the new fire station is in the location and cost should not dictate its value.

Bill Gadberry,

Lawrence