CR could be a shining star

Cedar Rapids needs to think about what makes Hiawatha so attractive that business continually wants to move there. I don't think they blow money on things “we” think essential in order to compete.

What became of the business of a responsible city government? Robbing the funds set aside for sewer and water improvements to ensure adequate bribes to business? If a company can easily be swayed, how long will they remain if a better offer comes along?

Simply the threat of leaving already ensures Cedar Rapids quick response in doing whatever it takes to keep business here. Our infrastructure is what makes us who we are; that is the job of city government. The condition of our streets, our sewer and water plants and all the amenities that go with that, adequate protection through a police and fire department and a way to deal with airports and rail service for a community, that is what is required.

Once these things are accomplished our attractiveness as a city that does its job economically will make us a shining star compared to most cities. Doing what everyone else does will never set us apart. Doing the job we are supposed to do and doing it well, will.

Buying down amenities that are frivolous is costing us. Continually giving tax incentives to others who will be using our services for many years to come costs all of us who get no incentive.

Steve Hanken

Cedar Rapids