I'll start by admitting that I'm in favor of a strong living wage ordinance in MPLS, and have recently been working with ISAIAH (a coalition of metro area churches) on behalf of it. I've also spent the 20+ years of my working career in the corporate, "for profit" world, and know a little about capitalism. Finally, I'm not concerned about opening up a can of whoop- _ _ s. With all due respect, I don't agree with Mark Hanson's concerns about the ordinance, nor his perspective on Rybak's position. First, I find it hard to believe that in today's competitive economy, the city of MPLS will ever have any trouble finding reputable, competent and competitively priced vendors to provide the goods and services they're willing to pay for. Nor do I worry about a shortage of companies willing to accept tax subsidies in order to set up shop in the city. Yes, they may be able to get sweeter deals in other communities surrounding MPLS, but none come with the advantages & benefits of locating in the city....in the end, the transaction always boils down to an equitable exchange of value. Second, while I do agree with Mr. Hanson that it's not the city's job to micro-manage a market economy, I do believe they have the right to stipulate certain conditions with their direct contractors....this is much different than trying to impose a policy on ALL private employers in the city! Ultimately, I'm sick and tired of the chronic apathy and inaction to address the issue of low wages and poverty. Every time we turn around we find out the gap between the highest and lowest income groups continues to widen, the real disposable income of the bottom third of society continues to decline, etc....and our government's only answer (even at the MN state level), is to lower tax rates for the wealthiest individuals. While this low wage ordinance is certainly not the ultimate answer or remedy to the problem, it will help some individuals and, more importantly, send a message that our city will not tolerate or subsidize profiteering. Finally, I also have the same question for our mayor, "what's the deal?". It's not a question about falling in line or not falling in line, but a broader question of leadership. Mr. Rybak seems to hold back on a lot of important issues (Twins' stadium, DeLaSalle playing field, smoking ban, bus strike, adding more police officers, etc. etc. etc....), at least until it becomes clear which way the wind is blowing. I really have no doubt he'll ultimately support the ordinance, but it makes me wonder why he so rarely gets out in front of these important issues. So.....what's the deal?
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