Give state incentives to small businesses

A majority of our residents and elected officials appear to favor more stringent measures regarding immigration. However, there doesn't seem to be any concern (in Iowa) about handing over a $100 million tax amnesty to a foreign corporation from a country reeling in political chaos.

This for a promise of 160 jobs, maybe, and more fertilizer (Orascom project in Lee County).

It is difficult to argue we have a shortage of fertilizer when also considering we're floating it downstream at a record pace. When this so-called economic development project gets past the tax handout, it will then be eligible to take advantage of our corporate tax loopholes to pay less than fair share while sending profits back to its home office, a foreign office.

If we have $100 million to give away, and I believe we do, there are hundreds of small businesses struggling to compete with corporate giants operating under a different set of tax rules. Many are trying to upgrade and expand and could make excellent use of some tax help. This is the type of economic development that can bring life back into Middle America. This would include small-business startups. This is a group that's in the most difficult environment.

David W. Ciha

Kalona