While it is clear that Matthew Hoey’s guest column was well researched and well intended, it brought to mind the fable of “Chicken Little.” [Target on our backs — Why L3Harris must leave Northampton” Gazette, Aug. 28]. As of now the sky is not falling. And yes, for decades the prospect of some kind of global conflict has existed. Those of us of a certain age remember drills of ducking under desks.
But to focus on the removal of one business in our city seems expedient at best. It is not the duty of local government to constrain what types of commerce can and cannot operate within city limits; assuming said commerce complies with appropriate regulations and zoning rules. And it is irrelevant to cite tax revenue based on “nature of work.” If so there may be many citizens opposed to specific types of businesses such as cannabis dispensaries, liquor stores, tobacco sellers, gun shops, etc., regardless of the monies generated for city funds. Can these all be considered non-lethal? Not to some.
But that is the function of a capitalist society — to nurture income-producing facilities for jobs, products and tax revenue.
Do I sound naive? Perhaps, but the reality is there are many aspects of life over which we have limited control. Force out L3Harris and I’m sure many local industrial parks would welcome them with open arms. Problem solved? No.
Susan Boucher
Florence