Blue Owl Brewing
Austin's Corporate Welfare at Its Worst
RECEIVED Fri., June 8, 2007
Dear Editor,
The City Council's vote to extend Las Manitas a $750,000 forgivable loan is corporate welfare at its worst [“Beside the Point,” News, June 8]. As a small-business owner, I understand the sacrifices that one needs to make to launch a successful business. It takes a high tolerance for risk, a willingness to fail, and incredible personal financial discipline. This forgivable loan allows the owners of Las Manitas to avoid worrying about these natural business sacrifices. It provides the restaurant a leg up on competitors who are having to compete without the backing of the city of Austin and its selected corporate handouts. I place no blame on the restaurant as I am a happy patron. I would take a similar deal for my business if offered … but therein lies the rub. I am not offered the same deal. Nor is any other small business that is forced to compete without the help of the city or the Austin taxpayer. This sets a dangerous precedent and is a slap in the face to other local business owners. A slap that may still be burned into our memory when we are at the ballot box.
The City Council's vote to extend Las Manitas a $750,000 forgivable loan is corporate welfare at its worst [“Beside the Point,” News, June 8]. As a small-business owner, I understand the sacrifices that one needs to make to launch a successful business. It takes a high tolerance for risk, a willingness to fail, and incredible personal financial discipline. This forgivable loan allows the owners of Las Manitas to avoid worrying about these natural business sacrifices. It provides the restaurant a leg up on competitors who are having to compete without the backing of the city of Austin and its selected corporate handouts. I place no blame on the restaurant as I am a happy patron. I would take a similar deal for my business if offered … but therein lies the rub. I am not offered the same deal. Nor is any other small business that is forced to compete without the help of the city or the Austin taxpayer. This sets a dangerous precedent and is a slap in the face to other local business owners. A slap that may still be burned into our memory when we are at the ballot box.
Brian Bares
