With concern growing about violence in Chattanooga, Mayor Ron Littlefield has proposed an examination of gang activity in the city, as well as a number of steps to reduce youth violence.
It is obviously reasonable for the City Council to get thorough details on the mayor's proposal. But we would note that he has suggested a sensible way to fund the gang study: He has asked the council to pay for it with money that was slated to be used to develop minority businesses.
Previously, some city money for developing minority businesses went to the Tennessee Multicultural Chamber of Commerce. But a Times Free Press investigation last year uncovered serious financial discrepancies at the Multicultural Chamber, and additional funds were withheld by both the city and Hamilton County. There are plans, however, to have the city money given to some other agency to fund minority business development.
There is no doubt that any number of local organizations could manage such funding responsibly. Unfortunately, that is not the only issue. Even if the money were handled appropriately, it simply is not government business to give preferential treatment on the basis of race.
Economic development funds should be focused on those business prospects that are most likely to create local jobs and growth, without regard to race.
Certainly minority-owned businesses should be encouraged every bit as strongly as other businesses to make their home in Chattanooga. We welcome them.
But stepping back from race-based policies on government funding is a good idea.