Inbox: "The City That Works"

Neighbors vs. Sports Club

Those with power and money, as well as the bullying that goes with those attributes, get their way. In this case, Terry Emmert has got the city where he wants it—afraid of lawsuits ["Contempt of Courts," WW, Nov. 25, 2015].

So, it's cheaper for Portland not to enforce zoning rules or even enforce the requirement that Emmert apply to change a nonconforming land use in a residential area.

Add in the other concerns— a liquor license in a residential neighborhood and safety for pedestrians and all the vehicles that pile into the Eastmoreland neighborhood for one of Emmert's profit-generating events—and you have a community nightmare.

So, the only option is for citizens to spend their money suing the city to do its job. That's pathetic for "The City That Works"…for whom?

—"p walla"

It would be very ignorant to buy a home in a neighborhood where a 7-plus-acre sports facility has existed since the mid-'70s and think, "OK, that place will never grow and get more popular."

And considering "The Courts" have evolved, grown, improved and received several land-use update approvals over the years, you might have to be an idiot to expect the city to perpetually tie the hands of a successful business indefinitely.

—"i5guy"

Two Views of Bailey

I'm excited Jules Bailey is going to run for mayor; we need a real competitive race in this city ["Bailey's In," WW, Nov. 25, 2015].

I think Bailey is plenty qualified, and I think it's good to get a more youthful voice in the race.

—"Josh O."

All I see is someone who wants to stay an elected official, which is the best gig there is. You don't need to know anything, people kowtow to you, and you get a fat salary and free food and travel.

Screw that. Vote for Ted Wheeler.

—"Hairball"

Comedian Poll Winner

Kudos to Susan Rice—this honor is long overdue ["This Is Portland's Funniest Person," WW, Nov. 25, 2015]. I do wonder, though, if the author of the article has ever been to a comedy show at Harvey's?

Some of the comedians (myself included) work clean; however, many work "blue." I have never heard of a "ban on blue comedians" in the 10 years I've been performing at Harvey's Comedy Club.

—Sharon Lacey

Lloyd Center, Etc.

As someone who has lived in Portland for about 45 years, I don't really get your "insights" about those who go to Lloyd Center ["Lloyd, I'm Ready to Be Outspoken," WW, Nov. 25, 2015].

I am a member of Stop Demolishing Portland. Your remark about our members being soft racists who would block the development of high-density apartments was pretty snarky. But then that's the type of writer WW likes to hire.

—Susan Stelljes

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Email: mzusman@wweek.com.

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