2 weeks not enough to prep for race

I think having the bike race Saturday, July 10, in Geneva will bring people to town who otherwise would not visit. At the same time I agree with some of the concerned business owners that a two-week notice is short notice to prepare. And why not have the race on Sunday if one of the goals is to introduce new people to Geneva? One aspect of your article disturbed me regarding the comments of Alderman Craig Maladra, who stated:

"I sensed from your comments a kind of 'us-versus-them' perspective. That bothered me. I can't tell you the amount of energy that we put into trying to get people downtown. You might experience a dip on the day of the event, but I'm willing to bet dollars to doughnuts you benefit in the long term."

Well, Mr. Maladra, as a property/business owner in downtown Geneva, whenever we receive a letter from the city it's never good news. Most recently the information was to restrict our zoning classification, and then an increase in parking contributions. 'Us-versus-them,' well the phrase you can't fight city hall wasn't pulled out of thin air. Finally, Mr. Maladra, your desire to "bet" with a local taxpayer on an intangible "benefit" is something an elected official should avoid.

Brian Kay

Geneva