To the editor:

As a business owner and someone who is involved in the community, I have had many conversations about a consolidated, more efficient police facility. People ask why buy a site when other sites are “free.” In my experience nothing is free.

Hallmark: Iowa Street is the city’s main north/south artery allowing easy access to anywhere in the city. North Lawrence can be reached quickly via I-70. This location will give great prominence and visibility making for an excellent gateway into Lawrence. City staff and the consultants all recommended the Hallmark location. All five city commissioners voted for the Hallmark site, for one reason: It’s the best location for a consolidated, more efficient police facility.

The other sites that were not chosen:

• City-owned Venture Park — An industrial park which will increase the tax base and deliver primary jobs, both of which are needed for Lawrence to grow. This location is hidden from 23rd Street and is located next to an electrical substation that could present potential interference with law enforcement electronic equipment. This site is not centrally located.

• City-owned Overland Drive — Originally planned for a park, it’s too far west, both physically and politically.

• Privately-owned Fairfield — The city would have to purchase this site.

• Privately-owned 31st Street — The city would have to purchase this site.

The city plans to sell some city-owned property to offset the cost of the Hallmark location. Doing so will turn that land into economic growth and provide Lawrence with additional tax dollars and primary jobs.