To the editor:

Personal bias filters what we hear and affects our reasoning and opinions. It is obvious our Journal-World editor(s) have had a long-held bias regarding Lawrence’s growth, favoring developers, et.al.

Space allows one example. Ten years ago HCA wanted to build a second hospital here. Our editor was very supportive of HCA’s efforts. Fortunately, grassroots citizens addressed the consequences of HCA. City commissioners listened to both sides and had the guts to say no to HCA, with fireworks resulting. Imagine two hospitals here, or more likely one HCA “feeder” hospital!

Growth is a big issue, as is Lawrence’s uniqueness. It’s not exactly fair to talk about commissioners’ poor choices without also acknowledging grave misjudgments by planners and developers in this city’s history. Arriving at what is best on both issues will not be discovered with bias. It is skewed, self-serving. Therefore, we sincerely ask the editor(s) (and other opinion writers), to humbly recognize and put aside their biases in order to objectively discuss what decisions will best serve our great city’s future. Elected officials are human and subject to human error. So are editors, but we can’t elect who will be the editor. Let’s seek a middle road together and help our elected officials with unbiased options.

Lawrence won’t be a destination city because of an HCA, Wal-Mart, etc. Nor will it be one with biased thinking. “Remove the plank from your own eye first.” Folks, do your homework. Opinion is just that, no matter from whom it originates.

Bob Bechtel,

Lawrence