To the editor:

In view of the American Eagle Outfitter debacle, the “living wage” and debate, which has lessened over the intervening years, the powers-that-be are now considering a tax abatement for a restaurant.

A few questions: Is there a shortage of eating establishments in Lawrence? Does the proposed restaurant offer much in the way of high end employment, or does it provide some employment for the transient college population that cycle through the watering holes in town? Are current businesses, including current Mediterranean restaurants, going to be required to subsidize the abatement through increased property taxes (whether paid to city or landlord)?

Lawrence has sufficient restaurants including some that serve Mediterranean fare. Hardly a justification for a tax abatement.