To the editor:

Even though we are compelled to vote “yes” for Proposition 1 on the upcoming ballot, we are not supportive of the way it was constructed.

First, lumping together both the jail and mental health initiatives prevents voters from choosing which one addresses the greatest need, thus creating a choice between all or nothing. As a result, we feel some voters won’t vote because the initiatives are needlessly tied together.

With respect to how to fund the initiatives, we feel a sales tax increase is more fair than a property tax increase. With a sales tax increase, people from all walks of life, citizens of Lawrence and visitors alike, will contribute as opposed to only property owners.

Last, we think the city commissioners need to re-evaluate the use of tax incentives awarded to businesses who promise to come to Lawrence, create jobs, and, ultimately, contribute to our tax base. Lawrence’s business growth has not increased as promised, the result being fewer jobs created, fewer tax dollars filling city coffers, and, in some cases, companies walking away with city funds. As usual, the citizens of Lawrence are left holding the bag. Maybe it’s time to pull back the reins on tax incentives, instead using part of that money to fund our mental health services and jails.