To the editor:

Recent decisions by the city commissioners are very disappointing. The decision to increase city staff positions will increase the city budget by $1.6 million. Most of the new positions are unnecessary, such as a creative media coordinator and an engagement coordinator. Lawrence is becoming a city of taxes and vacant storefronts. Where does the city think the money will come from? Utility rates increased by over 10% and I expect a big property tax increase. As evidence of increasing unaffordability, city commissioners also changed the regulation to allow city employees to live outside of Lawrence. Who can afford to live here anymore?

Marlene Merrill,

Lawrence Kansas