Letter to the Editor Mayor Announced Liquid Church PILOT Education

In a letter to the editor, Nicholas Homyak criticizes the Mayor's endorsement of a Liquid Church event focused on tax breaks for corporate real estate developers. He argues that the church's involvement in this political issue is inappropriate for a tax-exempt organization and promotes a Prosperity Theology that favors the wealthy. Critics of this theology contend that it distorts Christianity's core principles, emphasizing material gain over compassion and service. Homyak points to the Mayor's previous PILOT agreements, suggesting they jeopardize his re-election efforts and reflect a troubling relationship with wealthy developers. He urges that the original intent of PILOTs was to support disenfranchised communities, which has been distorted over time.

The letter calls for a public forum, such as a town hall, to discuss these matters rather than a religious venue. This situation highlights the tension between religious institutions and political issues, particularly regarding economic inequality. Homyak's critique raises questions about the appropriateness of mixing religion and politics in local governance.