To the editor:

I have been impressed with the thoughtful way citizens have expressed their thoughts and opinions about the new Wal-Mart at the public hearing and in the newspaper.

Unfortunately, I was not impressed with the response of the City Commission to the public at the hearing or when I wrote an e-mail to one of them about the Wal-Mart issue. The “hearing” did not result in the public being heard; instead being told “this is about land use” and apparently not about traffic or the numerous other issues. It makes me wonder why bother with a public hearing if what the public thinks doesn’t really matter.

In response to my e-mail, I received a letter that commented on other issues, but never mentioned the content of my e-mail. Makes me wonder if the commissioner bothered to read it.

And, alas, this letter to the editor will do no good in terms of impacting the city’s decision to allow this Wal-Mart to be shoved down our collective throats. But, at least I know the public will hear it.

Tom Bates,

Lawrence