Instead of extending Phase 2, Gov. Cooper should have let all small businesses open safely

Let all small businesses open

Regarding “NC Gov. Roy Cooper extends Phase Two of coronavirus restrictions into September,” (Aug. 6):

It seems more and more likely that Gov. Roy Cooper’s decisions are more political than science-based.

I have not seen one person in any retail establishment in over a month that is not wearing a mask. You are not going to get people to wear masks who are not already doing so, no matter how much you shut down the state.

It is past time to let all people who run small businesses do so safely. I wonder if the governor is willing to forgo his salary for the next few months so he can see how much people are hurting?

Dick Meyer, Charlotte

Don’t blame Cooper for extending Phase 2

Hey! Don’t be mad at Gov. Cooper for trying to keep you alive. If we would properly mask, social distance and wash hands we would all get back to some semblance of normal sooner.

Kay Lane, Charlotte

Waive impact fees for affordable housing

Regarding “Structure impact fees to aid buyers,” (Aug 5 Forum):

I applaud this letter regarding impact fees assessed on developers. I hope Assistant City Manager Taiwo Jaiyeoba includes them in his proposal to the state.

The homebuilders’ argument that the expense that trickles down from those fees is unfair to new home buyers is weak, especially given the suggestion that fees be structured so there is less trickle-down for less expensive houses. Minimizing or waiving fees for less expensive houses may even encourage developers to build more affordable housing, helping with the affordable housing crisis Charlotte has been experiencing.

Jo Ann Lee. Charlotte

Residents need to know RNC’s plans

Regarding “RNC details start to emerge, but venue is still uncertain,“ (Aug. 5):

What do you mean the RNC has not let Charlotte know its plan yet?

I am assuming the RNC does not have the last word, but that the mayor, Charlotte City Council and governor do.

What safeguards are in place to prevent COVID-19 from spreading from the convention all over the Charlotte-metro area? Are we supposed to sit back and wait until the last minute to find out the RNC’s plans?

Charlotte residents deserve some answers from city officials before it’s too late.

Richard Lindsey, Charlotte

Struck by GOP’s insincerity on deficit

We are at the “let them eat cake” moment with Republicans.

In 2017 when the GOP did its massive tax overhaul by cutting taxes on corporations and the wealthy there wasn’t a murmur about deficits.

Today, when debating aid for the unemployed struggling to buy food and keep their homes amid this pandemic, the deficit is now paramount.

This is a moment of clarity about Republican motivations — leave the masses on their own with healthcare, education, and livelihoods; stoke racial animosity and class division; and above all, maintain power to reward the rich and divide the rest.

Don R. Smith, Kannapolis

Vote-by-mail: So much could go wrong

Regarding “Apathy is dangerous in a democracy,” (Aug 4 Forum):

This letter writer addressed some valid points. She concluded with “Vote. Vote Vote!”

That’s exactly what opponents fear will happen with vote-by-mail, that there will be problems with people voting multiple times, deceased people voting, many uncounted ballots, and long delays in reporting results — coupled with endless complaints by both parties.

Frank Harrington, Charlotte

Take politics out of sporting events

Recently, four entire NBA teams took a knee during our national anthem. Teams in other leagues like the NFL and MLB may consider doing the same this fall.

Many folks all over America have had family members die in battle defending our country and flag. For goodness’ sake can’t we go to a football game on Sunday afternoon without a dose of politics? How about letting America be America.

Jim Cherry, Charlotte

Bryant’s legacy, red phone live on

Thank you for publishing the beautiful obituary on Sarah Bryant. I would add just one more thing: Sarah’s work to ensure that all children are wanted is carried on today in the state-of-the-art new Planned Parenthood Health and Education Center in Charlotte, where a glass reproduction of Sarah’s red telephone honors her lifelong commitment to women, families and our city.

Ruth Mayer, Charlotte

Charlotte has lost 3 great women

Charlotte has lost three great ladies in the past week — Sarah Belk Gambrell, Helen Moore, and Sarah Bryant. We are poorer for the loss.

Linda J. Brooks, Charlotte