Observer Forum: Letters to the editor 11.15.15
Most viable plan: Cancel I-77 contract
In response to “What’s the alternative to the I-77 toll lanes?” (Nov. 12 Editorial):
The writer is a Mecklenburg County commissioner.
The Observer asks us to present a politically and financially viable alternative. We’ve done so from day one: Cancel the contract and allow the new allocation process to work.
All we have asked is that NCDOT treat us like the rest of the state and provide roads funded by the taxes we have and continue to dutifully pay.
As for any “penalty,” the savings from canceling will cover the cost.
This isn’t the first costly mistake Raleigh has made, nor will it be the last.
Democracy calls on all citizens to cover the cost of electing less than perfect representatives.
Jim Puckett, Huntersville
Kick start North Meck commuter rail
Traffic science shows that widening highways to ease congestion is like dieting by buying bigger trousers.
Houston’s I-10 corridor has been widened to 23 lanes, and commute times have increased because the highway is more congested now than before.
New lanes on I-77 will ease things briefly, then congestion will return worse than ever. What a waste of half-a-billion dollars!
We should use that money to kick-start north Mecklenburg commuter rail and build more connected streets for local traffic.
But people who understand these things get voted out of office!
David Walters, Charlotte
Trying to end Duke Energy’s monopoly
In response to “In solar debate, rules apply to NC WARN too” (Nov. 13 Opinion):
Duke Energy spokesman Randy Wheeless correctly states that NC WARN is acting illegally as a third party selling electricity to a Greensboro church.
But he fails to mention that N.C. is one of only four states where this practice is illegal.
NC WARN is challenging the law because the N.C. Utilities Commission is a rubber stamp for Duke. The courts are the only avenue that offers a method to break Duke’s monopoly.
NC WARN wants all citizens to take advantage of solar energy that will lower all ratepayers’ bills.
It’s time for the legislature and the governor to work for their citizens.
Lee Brinson, Hickory
I’ve lived a life of integrity; you’ll see
In response to “FBI, IRS step up Pittenger probe” (Nov. 13):
Contrary to conjecture of the Observer’s reporting, the fact remains that I have lived a life of integrity – personally, professionally and in public service.
My request for a full investigation by the bipartisan House Ethics Committee conveys a bold statement to clear my name.
Will the Observer provide the same front-page headline when the Committee reports I am in full compliance, or when the judicial process concludes I have acted properly?
Robert Pittenger, Charlotte
Claim about Jewish mall owner absurd
In response to Keith Larson “Glaciers, coffee cups and a better way to holiday” (Nov. 12 Opinion):
Keith Larson said some of his radio listeners asserted that “SouthPark’s crime against Christmas came because the CEO of Simon Properties is a Jew.”
I’d like to point out that the largest supplier of Christmas ornaments in the world was started by a Jewish man whose name may be familiar: Marshall Rauch, former N.C. senator and businessman.
I mention this only to point out the absurdity of your presumption.
Gene Kavadlo, Charlotte
Not falling for Pastor Furtick’s argument
In response to “Pastor says not talking about money fits Jesus’ teaching” (Nov. 12):
Really Pastor Steven Furtick, who do you think you’re conning?
All your rhetoric about not revealing what you donate because doing so would “rob (you) of the blessing of doing what Jesus said,” is absolutely asinine.
But if that is truly what you feel, simply reveal what you make, not what you give. Problem solved – no blessing robbed.
Dierdre McCormick, Cornelius
Get a grip, it’s just a vessel for hot liquid
Sure, there are many other religions but let’s get a hold here on the Starbucks cups.
It’s just a cup, it’s not a personal threat to anyone of any gender, nationality or religion.
A cup holds liquid, just what it is intended for, plain and simple. No strings attached.
Lorraine Stark. Matthews
This story was originally published November 14, 2015 at 12:03 PM with the headline "Observer Forum: Letters to the editor 11.15.15."