George Mason University economist Russell Roberts notes the ease with which the Washington Post ignores the real reason for making it harder for supercenters to open in Montgomery County: shakedown by politicians:
I also like how the Council didn't ban big-box groceries outright. That leaves open the door for special begging, pleading and lobbying. It really highlights what smart growth is about�legislator as gate-keeper. If you'd like in, love me enough or pay me enough and I'll consider it. Maybe. It's an outrageous way to run a jurisdiction in a democracy. It makes property use and property rights subject to the whim of legislators. What a sad day for the rule of law.
Posted by Kevin on November, 12 2004 at 10:55 AM
