The question isn't whether to call it Christmas or holiday, but why do we even have a village on public property competing with merchants and businesses struggling to stay alive during this terrible economic time ("Nutter says market will get its name back," Thursday)?
Retailers who pay their share of taxes year-round - including real estate, gross receipts, special service district, and wage taxes - now face extra competition during the season when they often recoup losses for the rest of the year. More empty storefronts don't just hurt property owners who can't rent retail space, but also industries such as restaurants, couriers, rail and local transportation operators, and others.
The mayor and City Council members should support shops owned and/or operated by the very people who pay their salaries.
Harriet Lessy
Philadelphia
HarrietLessy@buzzCommunications. biz
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