Open town advocates like Gill and Seattle Times publisher Alden J. Blethen argued for the economic benefits of an "open town" while trying to keep these "vices" mostly confined to the area below Yesler Way, a major east–west road through what is now known as Pioneer Square. One of the most prominent figures on the other side of the debate was Presbyterian minister Mark Matthews, who already in 1905 had faced off against Gill, accusing him of "condoning vice"; other opponents included other church groups, but also progressives, prohibitionists, and women's suffragists.
Pro-open town supporters like Gill and Alden J. Blethen of the Seattle Times advocated for the economic advantages of an "open town" while attempting to restrict these "indiscretions" primarily to the area beneath Yesler Way, a significant east–west road through what is now known as Pioneer Square. On the opposing side was Presbyterian minister Mark Matthews, who in 1905 had confronted Gill, accusing him of "endorsing immorality"; other opponents included various church groups, but also liberals, prohibitionists, and women's rights activists.