Violation of neighbors' rights

To the people of Jackson:By now you have seen many articles, advertisements and mayor's columns that would attempt to convey that the vote for the Heartland Materials annexation Feb. 7 is all about the pros and cons of a quarry operation and growth of industry in the area. This is misleading; the quarry is already operating, the "industry" and jobs are already there, and this vote will have no impact on jobs and industry in the area. It's not about the quarry. The people of Fruitland welcome the orderly development of industry and commerce in the area.

What this vote is about is whether or not the Jackson Board of Aldermen has your support in spending your tax money on a land-grab over three miles north of the city. We have all heard this particular annexation will not need city services, but what about the annexations that have been negotiated to follow? The board of aldermen's real intent is to gain access to the commercial district around U.S. 61; ultimately, Jackson will have to invest significantly in the Fruitland area.

As intended by the board of aldermen, an annexation will make it difficult for local residents to have any say or influence on the growth and development of the community around us. Therefore, we are asking you to consider your neighbors in Fruitland, and vote no on the annexation. Tell the Jackson Board of Aldermen to stop violating your neighbors' rights; leave the issues in Fruitland for Fruitland to manage.

TIM SUTTERER, Jackson