To the editor:

The City Commission will soon vote on the Airport Business Park. Will it be remembered for protecting or destroying one of the region’s most important agricultural, economic and scenic assets?

History is going to show that Jefferson County was more farsighted than Douglas County. Several years ago, Jefferson County recognized the economic importance of scenic areas. They developed special zoning regulations for the Jefferson Hills area in the southern part of their county. Unfortunately, the valley directly below the Jefferson Hills is in Douglas County, and that scenic view is what makes the Jefferson Hills special.

Although those who live in southern Jefferson County pay property taxes there, most work in Lawrence and spend most of their incomes in Lawrence. Many also own property in Lawrence and also pay property taxes there. Will Lawrence officials consider these residents in a decision that will have a profound effect on their lives and property?

Will individual city commissioners be remembered for understanding our community’s long-term economic success and take into account the ever-increasing need for locally produced food in a world with ever-increasing transportation costs? Or will they be remembered for helping light a fuse that led directly to the destruction of our best food-producing soil?

Further, will the commissioners address the possibility of massive flooding because of global climate change? Or will they use flawed flood projections based on data from the past hundred years that will cause monumental future tax increases to correct problems created by this shortsighted proposal?

Ron Seibold,

Lawrence