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As a lifelong Minneapolitan, I have concerns about how the 2040 Plan is being executed. The new apartment buildings being approved and built now do not have a proper setback footage from the street. Often, these are built on busy intersections, making for unpleasant exits and entrances for those who live in the complex and creating a harsh environment for pedestrians: no bushes, grass, trees and/or plantings to add not only beauty but a visually calming effect. If one is only interested in creating an urban environment that is churn-and-burn, that is, where people move in but expect to live elsewhere in four to six years, the current buildings are fine and offer the highest return on the builders' investment. However, if one wants more stable residents and neighbors, apartment buildings should also include a place for picnic tables, grills and maybe a small tot lot. These outside amenities should be included on the grounds of the complex, so that residents can enjoy our limited summer season, even without their own household yard. In addition to keeping stable neighborhoods and buildings that are more family friendly, the above suggestions also would allow for greater green space, keeping the air cleaner and the city cooler.
One more recommendation: the lack of garage space is a problem even for residents who do not own cars. Couples and families need indoor space to safely store bicycles, wagons, skis, hockey, soccer equipment, etc., which cannot be easily accommodated in an apartment. Greater density and a livable city can be achieved if builders are required to build apartment homes and not just nice cubicles.
Coral Bastien, Minneapolis
ST. PAUL CITY COUNCIL
Saura Jost for Third Ward
I am submitting a more forward-thinking view about the St. Paul Third Ward race than a Sept. 19 letter ("Isaac Russell for Third Ward"). St. Paul needs a council that works for its residents. The Third Ward has a new makeup, with more renters and more residents of East African descent. These people have been left out of the decision process.
Solving problems based solely on "strong public policy experience" often leads to status quo answers. We have seen how some large developers and outside investors can control the affordable housing stock.
Saura Jost has experience and, more important, is acutely attuned to Third Ward residents' needs. Her organizing background, beginning in high school, shaped these relational skills. Jost has lived in the ward much of her life. She knows the will of the people. And her engineering background will provide the process driven experience the City Council needs. She has the experience and skills needed to ensure all residents have affordable housing, reliable transportation and a solid city infrastructure.
