To the editor:

From the Lawrence Chamber of Commerce press release, Jan. 9, 2007:

“HISTORY: DCDI was incorporated on July 21, 1986, to foster the industrial and commercial growth and development of Douglas County, Kansas; and to purchase, develop, manage, and lease, sell or otherwise dispose of real estate, buildings and other forms of industrial and commercial improvements of any kind, and other associated property of whatever kind or description. DCDI was incorporated by the Lawrence Chamber of Commerce and the board of directors is appointed by the Lawrence Chamber of Commerce board of directors. The spec building was constructed in 2002 as a marketing tool to attract light manufacturing; however, as it was built as a spec building, it can be adapted for other uses.”

This spec building is considered for Deciphera. For over five years now it has had taxes paid on it. Who has paid those? Who are the directors on the DCDI board and also on the chamber board? This DCDI does not appear to have a very good track record of attracting businesses, nor does the chamber. And for the DCDI to sell a building at a half-million dollars less than appraised value speaks poorly of the leadership of the chamber board of directors, as well as the DCDI board, who aren’t easily identified.

Both entities have entrapped the public into projects at East Hills. Even with free land paid for by the public, this DCDI is quite ambiguous and not productive to the community.

Answers and truth please!

Dennis Copp,

Lawrence