To the editor:

Where do we get in line to apply for a city subsidy? Sounds like another person with their hand out?

Mr. Compton and his “development group” now have requested a subsidy to build a seven-story office/apartment building, in addition to two years free parking in Lawrence’s parking garage, on the vacant lot at Ninth and New Hampshire. The proposed structure will house his business offices, retail space and upper end apartments destroying the views from the existing building at Ninth and Massachusetts.

Mr. Compton and his development group already own a number of buildings downtown; the former Masonic Temple, for one, has sat empty for years. Many properties downtown now rent for more than previous owners charged, making it more difficult for small businesses to keep the “feel” we strive for.

Doug Compton and his development group have the resources to complete this project without our infrastructure incentive. We are taxed to the bone already. Why should we, the people who live and work hard for our survival, provide him assistance? Tell you what, Mr. Compton, you provide the $18 million to build/remodel the new library and we’ll consider finding the quarter million to help with your new corporate offices. As for the parking, provide your own, maybe a lower level could be added to your plans since it’s still in the planning stage.

Mark and Shelia McCanon,

Lawrence