Today's story about the Church of Scientology buying a prime parcel in downtown Clearwater has tampabay.com readers talking.

One reader wants to know: "With maybe 50,000 members worldwide, where are they getting this kind of money in cash?"

If the five acres become a church facility, it will mean another valuable piece of waterfront land comes off the property tax rolls. And that didn't sit well with some readers.

"Why are these properties coming off the tax rolls, especially in times as they are now? This is NOT a CHURCH or a religion," Casey says.

"Is this really the smartest move? " Suzy asks. "There are better ways to develop the beautiful city of Clearwater!"

And Shelly is wondering about Scientology's most famous member: "They haven't even finished their so-called Super Powers building.  Say, has anyone seen Tom Cruise flying yet?"