Condo project doesn’t deserve county funds

The local newspapers have followed the University Heights controversy concerning the purchase of the St. Andrew Church property and the development of the condo-commercial building closely.

It is amazing that when Jeff Maxwell, the developer, was attempting to sell the project to the University Heights council, he presented it as a win-win for both him and the town. But, as soon as he obtained zoning approval, he stated that he needed tax assistance to make the project break even.

Since I had no dog in that fight, I just watched with interest. But now, because the town is requesting that Johnson County participate in the Tax Incentive Financing (TIF), all of a sudden, I do have a dog in the fight. They want to use my, and that of all the citizens of Iowa City and the county, taxes to help pay to make this project profitable (or more profitable, depending upon who determines the true cost and profit?).

Contact all five county supervisors and tell them to decline this ridiculous request. Why should county taxpayers contribute to Maxwell's income?

Henry T. Madden

Iowa City