LETTERS: REP. FOSTER URGED TO SUPPORT LAKE

To the editor:

This is an open letter to state Rep. Bill Foster:

Thanks for your response to my letter concerning the Bollinger-Cape County Lake Project. In your Sept. 9 letter, you stated you did not feel the lake was a political issue. I did not say it was a political issue, so now that we agree, let's look at the facts. At stake here is a revenue source for both Bollinger and Cape Girardeau counties.

Your letter stated a lake placed on properties owned by the Missouri Department of Conservation of 9,122 acres located near the intersection of Highway 34 and Route MM would be a better lake, as you have publicly stated in a front-page article in the Southeast Missourian. Does the Department of Conservation share your opinion? Fact: That 9,122 acres consists of eight separate tracts, none of which adjoin, and would require the displacement of those landowners who own property within the confines of the 9,122 acres. The Department of Conservation purchases land from willing sellers only. Your letter again stated you did not want to displace landowners. What about the displacement of those around and between those eight separate tracts? You state you will not use eminent domain for the lake project, yet you would for a lake closer to your district. In addition, your proposed lake would only affect Castor River and would have virtually no effect on Advance flood control.

My sources have indicated you have supported road improvements that require acquisition of land. I'm sure they were not prone to displacement. Did you ever drive on a four-lane road? I just bet those who owned that land did like to be displaced either.

Are you aware the leading opponents to the lake who live in Bollinger County work in Cape Girardeau County? In fact, a greater percentage of the stronger opponents rely on Cape Girardeau County for hospitals, medical, dental, entertainment and most professional service. So here we are, back to helping Bollinger County. I, along with many others, feel Bollinger County is a great county with many very fine, hard-working people with a solid sense of pride. I'm surprised that you would misrepresent the facts. Could it be your interest lies in the lakes in your district, Clearwater and Wappapello? Mr. Foster, your support of the proposed lake or any other project to help Bollinger County would be appreciated by the people who elected you.

JACK BOLLINGER

Imperial, Mo.