Why is it that when big business asks for something, you're always ready to give it? First, it was 51 Biltmore, then it was [approval for another] McKibbon hotel facing the Basilica of St. Lawrence. Now the businessmen want a new "tax district" so they can have my tax money funneled to them directly.
Now, this is really too much. Why do we even need a City Council? Why don't you people take a rest and let our tax dollars just flow directly to the Chamber of Commerce? That way we can cut out the middle men and women, and we would save money by not having to pay your salaries.
My comments are not directed to either Mayor Terry Bellamy or City Council member Cecil Bothwell, who are concerned with their other constituencies. Let's let them decide on Council matters so the rest of you won't have to put up with boring meetings at which nothing gets done that benefits those of us who pay taxes but aren't business owners.
Instead, you can go have a drink at Aloft with your friends at the Chamber of Commerce and tell them about how civic-minded you are.
— Leonard S. Carrier
Asheville
