To the Readers' Forum:
Tim Hortons in Brooklyn Square and on Sgecond Street in the City of Jamestown are incredibly successful retail businesses. Their property taxes on their two commercial properties support the Jamestown Public Schools and all City services, including Police and Fire.
Now Tim Hortons is willing to invest in a third store within the city limits on Route 60 (North Main). As a city resident and taxpayer, I say "thank you."
Under New York law the City of Jamestown has been trapped within the same borders (with one exception) since 1886. It is difficult for Jamestown to find the land to compete with Ellicott and Lakewood for commercial or retail development.
A recent letter to the Readers' Forum by a non-resident of Jamestown, opposed the Tim Hortons investment in Jamestown because it would remove some trees.
A few trees do not pay for our Jamestown school teachers, police and fire personnel. Tim Hortons on North Main would pay taxes for these important public employees.
Perhaps those of us who actually live in the City of Jamestown should be flattered by all of the advice we receive from non-residents. But in the case of the Tim Hortons development, let Jamestown make a decision in its own best interest.
Fred Larson
Jamestown