Letter to the Editor: Downtown Springfield hotel debate lacks moral angle

Recently HCW/Evergreen partnered with Hilton Hotels and the city of Branson. One concern for many in the Branson community was Hilton’s proactive position regarding hard-core obscene pornography shown in Hilton properties nationwide.

One of Branson’s core fundamentals and brand components is family values. HCW/Evergreen and Hilton Hotels failed to respect this aspect of the Branson area. Branson’s city leaders failed to take a proactive approach in protecting families and adding a provision to restrict pornography in the leases with the developers. Attorneys said nothing could be done, but many would disagree with this position. Instead of appealing to the highest standards of our community, Hilton and HCW/Evergreen brought hard-core pornography to the Branson Landing and settled at the lowest of standards. Would Branson residents have ever voted for this? Certainly not.

Springfield can learn from Branson’s mistake. I would encourage Springfield city leaders to rise to the highest of standards when it comes to any hotel development. Springfield should maintain a high bar and eliminate hard-core pornography in any hotel that they may consider. As the word gets out about the hotel industry’s dirty little secret, organizations such as religious and political groups will seek venues that respect family values over those appealing to deviant sexual behavior.

Without hard-core porn in the host hotel, Springfield will appeal to a broader audience base. … Someone may argue about the first amendment, but obscenity is not protected by the first amendment. … Springfield can be proactive and provide the highest level of service and hospitality in a family-friendly environment. … Springfield doesn’t have to make the same mistake made in Branson.

—Chris Myer, Myer Hotels, Branson