TO THE EDITOR:

Commissioner Montzka doesn't seem to have a clue about economic development or the energy problem facing our nation. If he was informed on these two subjects, he would not have suggested Chisago County return $200,000 slated to investigate the "feasibility" of a new industry in Chisago, or suggested this study is "window dressing."

The $200,000 for this "feasibility" study was the result of lobbying by Representative Jeremy Kalin, Senator Rick Olseen, Chisago County Commissioners Mike Robinson, Lynn Schultz, David Whitney of the Chisago Taxpayers for Responsible Land Use and Judy Erickson. It could help create a new industry in Chisago County with long term financial benefits for landowners and reduced energy costs for residents.

This kind of research is the backbone of economic development. Companies and Governments don't spend Millions of Dollars on new plant and equipment without first doing a "feasibility" study. This is Economic Development 101. It's simply amazing that Commissioner Montzka doesn't get it.

Commissioner Ben Montzka has done a lot of good things for our community during his time in office. I've spoken to him at length on this subject and many others. This time he is just dead wrong.

The Commissioner should not say "No" to a new investment opportunity for Chisago. He should applaud the research effort and wait for the results of the research. Dismissing research before it bears fruit is a bit like writing a bad review for a performance of "King Lear" before the curtain opens.

Tom O'Mara
Stacy