To the editor:

I read the article about our new concept for growth in the city — one that would allow small businesses like grocery stores or hairdressers to operate in a residential neighborhood. The concept appears, in my mind, to be fairly narrow minded. I am certain this is another feeble plan to make Lawrence resemble a “big time” city. Just as there is no need for bike boulevards or narrowing of driving-lane widths or adding statues to the edge of the city to get that “Oh what a pretty town feeling” as nonresidents drive into Lawrence, there is no need for this.

One should remember that the “big” towns had a local grocery or hairdresser out of necessity because they were/are segregated. The large towns had many — may still have — minority communities ( Irish, Puerto Ricans, African Americans, Indian, Hispanic, etc.). As a result, these cities needed small shops. Lawrence, as segregated as it is, doesn’t need it. Unless, of course, that’s what the city commissioners’ goal is. Surely, they have to remember this plan failed once. Small businesses can’t survive in a residential area. The Walmarts, Targets and Home Depots sell things for less and eventually run the small businesses out of business.

Seriously, why don’t we fill up some of the strip malls that are dispersed throughout the town first? Most of them have one or two vacant spaces. Try getting a grocery there first. Residential means residential.

I know I am not too dang thrilled with the assisted living home now established in our residential neighborhood after the new owner added 6,000 square feet to an existing home (with plans to add more) to give 11 patients room and board. But, it’s part of the new plan, as well. This is not what the average, nonbusiness person in Lawrence wants or needs. Shouldn’t we put a change like this to a vote by the people it will affect?

Roger Powell,

Lawrence