Re: [Mpls] Re: IMPORTANT - MUST READ! - server switch and two-dayshutdown
It is not true that the software works only with Internet explorer, we've been running three other Issues Forums on it for over 9 moths. I know for a fact that it works with Firefox for Mac and Windows. in the last 9 months, of working with well over a 1000 users on Groupserver, we have not had significant problems with more than a few browsers/configurations. What troubles that we have had have been with users operating on VERY old versions of windows and/or their browser. If anyone experiences technical problems, please contact me offline before reporting to the entire MPLS forum. I'll do my best to resolve whatever Issues come up. Tim Erickson E-Democracy.Org --- Sent From Tim's Blackberry Phone: 651-246-5045 Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] -Original Message- From: Tim Bonham [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Tue, 13 Dec 2005 00:19:43 To:mpls-issues mpls@mnforum.org Subject: [Mpls] Re: IMPORTANT - MUST READ! - server switch and two-day shutdown Apparently ready for prime time ONLY if you use Micro$oft Internet Explorer as a browser! Because the screens to change your email settings, etc. don't work with Firefox. That's not print time design; more like 1990's design! The list will be moving to an opensource software product called Groupserver. E-Democracy.Org has been using Groupserver to host our new Issues Forums in the UK for about 2 months now. We think it's ready for prime time. ... David Brauer List manager REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls . REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] Archives?
Will we still be able to look back to the way things were, say, in 2002? Or will the switch over mean that all the old posts will vanish? The old posts will remain available in the old archive. They will not be transferred into the new archive, but they will be available in the old location. However, I think you'll find the new archive much easier to use. So far, 53 people have registered for the new forum. Please, register quickly so you don't miss out on the launch of the new forum. http://forums.e-democracy.org/minneapolis/groups/mpls I'm handling many of the technical issues for this switch, so please feel free to contact me if you have any technical problems or troubles. Best wishes, Tim Erickson E-Democracy.Org St. Paul, Minnesota REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] Problems With NEW Forum?
Its been a great response, it just over 24 hours we've already have 117 people who have registered for the new forum. (Your going to LOVE it). PLEASE - help us out, by setting up your account ASAP! http://forums.e-democracy.org/minneapolis/groups/mpls Remember, that once you set up your account, you will get an email with your user name and password. You must log in with the password to verify your account. If you do not get your verification email with your password OR if you are having trouble getting the system to accept your new password, please drop me a note and I'll try to fix things for you ASAP! [EMAIL PROTECTED] 651-643-0722 Of the 117 folks who have signed up so far, only a handful have reported problems. so things are actually moving quite well. Best wishes, Tim Erickson E-Democracy.Org [EMAIL PROTECTED] St. Paul, Minnesota REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] Report From Linz - E-Democracy.Org Award
I'm writing to the forum today, from an outdoor cafe in the middle of Linz, Austria. I'm here today, to accept an honorable mention award at a prestigious electronic art festival on behalf of E-Democracy.Org. http://www.aec.at/en/festival2005/programm/index.asp Once again, the work that we are doing in St. Paul, Minneapolis, Winona, Brighton Hove (UK), and Newham (UK) is being recognized for its innovation and potential to empower and engage citizens in the democratic process. While many of us get frustrated with the tone of discussion in our local Issues Forum from time to time, its important to keep the big picture in mind. Democracy in all its forms is a messy and sometimes ugly process. We cannot expect that things will always run smoothly or as efficiently as we would like in this forum. What is important, is that our local Issues Forums are slowly becoming a NEW place where citizens can connect with each other, elected and non-elected government officials, and the media. We are making great progress and have been recognized for it. However, we have much work to do to increase participation in and improve the effectiveness of our forums. BUT, today we should all take pride for our participation in an experiment that is being watched and slowly replicated or modified in other communities around the world. Congratulations! I look forward to your feedback. Best wishes, Tim Erickson E-Democracy.Org Hamline Midway, St. Paul (writing from Austria) [EMAIL PROTECTED] -- = Tim Erickson http://www.politalk.com St. Paul, MN - USA 651-643-0722 [EMAIL PROTECTED] iChat/AIM: stpaultim = REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] Free SAINTS tickets
We still have about 15 FREE general admission tickets for the St. Paul Saints. These are rain checks from our rained out E-Democracy event on July 25th. There are only 3 games left in the Saints regular season, for which these tickets can be used. Sat Aug 27th, 2005 07:05 PMSioux City Explorers Sun Aug 28th, 2005 01:05 PMSioux City Explorers Mon Aug 29th, 2005 07:05 PMSioux City Explorers Please, contact me if you would like any of these FREE tickets to make arrangements for pick-up. Tim Erickson E-Democracy.Org 651-643-0722 REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] Baseball, Hotdogs, Apple Pie and E-Democracy
RSVP TODAY! Come one, come all to the E-Democracy.org Saint Paul Saints baseball and tailgating fundraiser! It's a great opportunity to celebrate and support E-Democracy.org and help show our international visitors (attending the International E-Democracy Symposium) a piece of Americana. The party will include a general admission ticket to the game and tailgating with brats, chips, pop, and a treat. We may have to include a giant Jello salad for the visitors. If you haven't been to a Saints game, we want you to know that it's not just for baseball lovers. There's a kids area in the park, you can get a massage from Sister Rosalind, and there are lots of mid-inning activities on and off the field. When: July 25 - evening (tailgate at 5:00; game at 7:00) Where: Saints Stadium on Energy Park Drive in St Paul Cost: $15 for 1 ticket; $25 for 2; $30 for a family up to 4 (after that please add $5 per kid) Please send an check in advance to Minnesota E- Democracy E-Democracy Saints Event c/o Ann Treacy, 1841 Fairmount Avenue, St Paul MN 55105. To reserve a spot please RSVP to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Let us know how many tickets you'd like and if you have a special request (like vegetarian not dog) or a special Jello desert you want to share. If you can let us know by Tuesday, July 12 that would help; we'd love to order most of the tickets then. What's this about an international symposium? On July 26-27, Minneapolis will be hosting an International Symposium on Local E-Democracy http://dowire.org/localedem and our gathering would double as the pre-conference event. Hope to see you there - don't forget your sunglasses! Best wishes, Tim Erickson E-Democracy.Org St. Paul, MN 651-643-0722 REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] Today - New Software for MPLS-ISSUES?
Please join us for this discussion about the future of E-Democracy software. - What features would you like? - What works? What doesn't? E-Democracy.Org has begun to move our forums to a new software package called Groupserver. The two new Local Issues Forums in the UK both run on Groupserver, as does the St. Paul Issues Forum. We'd like to see MPLS make the move someday as well. If you have questions or comments about the new software, please join with the Designer of Groupserver (visiting from New Zealand) at MAP for Nonprofits on Monday June 27th, for a demonstration and discussion about the future of E-Democracy.Org and Groupserver. Members of the St. Paul Issues Forum will be there providing feedback on what they think of Groupserver after just over one month of using it. --- WHO:Dan Randow, designer of Groupserver visiting from New Zealand Steve Clift, E-Democracy.Org Board Chair Tim Erickson, E-Democracy.Org Others... WHERE: MAP for Nonprofits 2233 University Ave W Suite 360 St. Paul Directions: http://tinyurl.com/6aj94 WHEN: Monday, June 27th 5:00 - 6:30 PM RSVP: Helpful but not required [EMAIL PROTECTED] (specify which event - Groupserver/E-Democracy Meeting) NOTE: Dan will be giving a public demonstration of Groupserver and taking questions, in the same room from 3:00 - 4:30 PM, just prior to the E-Democracy meeting. The first demonstration is intended for non-profits, political groups, or anyone else interested in Groupserver outside the context of E-Democracy.Org. Feel free to attend both meetings/demonstrations. Tim Erickson Hamline Midway [EMAIL PROTECTED] REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] Reception/Demonstration of E-Deliberation Tools
This Thursday - June 23rd, E-Democracy.Org and Ciceron (http://www.ciceron.com) are welcoming national and international guests for a 2 day meeting on Deepening Online Deliberation, that is taking place in Minneapolis on Friday and Saturday. This public reception is an opportunity to meet and mingle, with some of the leading experts in online citizen engagement, from the United States and Canada (and one from New Zealand). There will be a brief welcoming ceremony along with demonstrations of some of the newest online deliberation tools/games. Please, come and help us welcome these folks who share our interest in the concept of E-Democracy and are leading the charge to increase citizen participation in decision making at all levels. Your Invited: Deepening Online Deliberation Public Reception and Demonstration of Tools Thursday - June 23rd, 6:45 PM Ciceron (http://www.ciceron.com) 126 North 3rd Street, Suite 309 Downtown Mpls MAP: http://www.ciceron.com/contact_map.asp RSVP = (Optional) To [EMAIL PROTECTED] Please, mention ODDC Reception PARKING: We recommend parking in a public parking ramp on 2nd Avenue North, between 3rd and 4th Streets. This is only a short block from the reception. See you there, Tim Erickson Hamline Midway St. Paul [EMAIL PROTECTED] REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] Friday Night Dinner in Mpls (for 50)
Hi! I'm planning a national meeting of folks who do Online Deliberative Democracy (E-Democracy). We're meeting at the University of Minnesota (Humphrey Institute) on Friday and Saturday (this weekend). We'll have anywhere from 30 - 50 people, including local participants. On FRIDAY night, we'd like to do something special for Dinner, other than a simple banquet at the University of Minnesota. Someone suggested a barbecue, or maybe a really interesting Mpls dinner venue? But, I'm swamped and haven't figured out a weather safe plan to host a barbeque for up to 50 people and just don't have any other creative ideas for something that we might do in Minneapolis (I live in St. Paul). Maybe, I'll bring them over to St. Paul :-) If anyone has a suggestion, they should let me know. If you come up with the winning suggestion, you can join us for dinner, on me. Anyone.? Our criteria are: 1) 25 - 50 people 2) Something fun 3) We need our own space, so we can mingle and network 4) Can't be too loud or distracting. Again, we want to socialize and network. 5) Convenient to the University of Minnesota However, we can transport folks if we have to. Best wishes, Tim Erickson St. Paul 651-643-0722 REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] New Software for MPLS-ISSUES?
E-Democracy.Org has begun to move our forums to a new software package called Groupserver. The two new Local Issues Forums in the UK both run on Groupserver, as does the St. Paul Issues Forum. We'd like to see MPLS make the move someday as well. If you have questions or comments about the new software, please join with the Designer of Groupserver (visiting from New Zealand) at MAP for Nonprofits on Monday June 27th, for a demonstration and discussion about the future of E-Democracy.Org and Groupserver. Members of the St. Paul Issues Forum will be there providing feedback on what they think of Groupserver after just over one month of using it. --- WHO:Dan Randow, designer of Groupserver visiting from New Zealand Steve Clift, E-Democracy.Org Board Chair Tim Erickson, E-Democracy.Org Others... WHERE: MAP for Nonprofits 2233 University Ave W Suite 360 St. Paul Directions: http://tinyurl.com/6aj94 WHEN: Monday, June 27th 5:00 - 6:30 PM RSVP: Helpful but not required [EMAIL PROTECTED] (specify which event - Groupserver/E-Democracy Meeting) NOTE: Dan will be giving a public demonstration of Groupserver and taking questions, in the same room from 3:00 - 4:30 PM, just prior to the E-Democracy meeting. The first demonstration is intended for non-profits, political groups, or anyone else interested in Groupserver outside the context of E-Democracy.Org. Feel free to attend both meetings/demonstrations. Tim Erickson Hamline Midway [EMAIL PROTECTED] REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] Workshop: Online Citizen Engagement
-- You're Invited To A Workshop On: == Online Citizen Engagement - Using the Internet as a tool for citizen input in public policy decisions. == Cost: FREE Thursday June 23rd / 2:00 - 4:00 PM at the Met Council, 230 E 5th St. Downtown St. Paul Sponsored by: - E-Democracy.Org The Online Working Group of the Deliberative Democracy Consortium http://www.e-democracy.org http://www.deliberative-democracy.net With special thanks to the Metropolitan Council -- This workshop is designed to introduce local, regional, and state government officials and non-profit organizations to some of the latest work being done in the area of online citizen engagement, government consultations and e-rulemaking in the United States and abroad. We will highlight examples of successful online consultations and talk about the latest trends. We'll address such questions as: * Pro's and con's of online engagement * Ethical considerations * What tools to use * What makes for a successful consultation * E-Rulemaking This workshop is being held in conjunction with a national meeting about Online Deliberative Democracy being held at the Humphrey Institute and will include such national experts in the field as: * Bob Carlitz, Information Renaissance http://www.info-ren.org/ * Michael Weiksner, E-ThePeople http://www.e-thepeople.org/ * Steve Clift, E-Democracy.Org http://www.e-democracy.org * Joe Peters, Asentum http://www.dialoguecircles.com/ * Tim Erickson, E-Democracy.Org http://www.e-democracy.org * and others.. Space is limited, please register quickly, send an email with Online Citizen Engagement in the subject line to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Please include the following information: Name: Organization: Phone: E-Mail: If you have questions, please contact Tim Erickson at: 651-246-5045 -- -- = Tim Erickson http://www.politalk.com St. Paul, MN - USA 651-643-0722 [EMAIL PROTECTED] iChat/AIM: stpaultim = REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] United Kingdom Imports Minnesota E-Democracy
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 6, 2005 CONTACT: Minnesota E-Democracy (http://www.e-democracy.org/) Tim Erickson: 651-643-0722 [EMAIL PROTECTED] Steve Clift: 612-822-8667 [EMAIL PROTECTED] United Kingdom Imports Minnesota E-Democracy On Saturday, Jan. 8, Minnesota E-Democracy Chair Steve Clift and St. Paul Issues Forum List Manager Tim Erickson will head to the United Kingdom to launch an international effort to expand the use online civic discussion. In a partnership involving organizations from three different countries, online discussions styled after the Minneapolis and St. Paul Issues Forums will be piloted in four cities across the United Kingdom. The partnership includes Minnesota E-Democracy, two New Zealand companies -- GroupSense and IOPEN -- contracted to develop software specifically to enable the online discussions and the United Kingdom Local E-Democracy National Project, which has provided funding and local organization to launch the effort in the UK. Minnesota E-Democracy will be providing expertise and management needed to duplicate its model of online civic dialogue that has successfully operated in Minnesota since 1994. Minnesota E-Democracy contacts and citizen participants will gather at the Baja Riverside Grill (insert details) to kick off the event and will be available for media interviews. Minnesota E-Democracy contacts and citizen participants will gather at the Baja Riverside Grill this Friday, Jan. 7 from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., located at 1501 Sixth St. S. in Minneapolis, to kick off the event and will be available for media interviews. Minnesota E-Democracy, best known for its civic discussion forums in Minneapolis, St. Paul and Winona, is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, citizen-based project, whose mission is to improve participation in democracy through the use of information networks. It began in 1994 as the Internet's first election-oriented website and expanded to include civic dialogue, online candidate debates and information designed to help citizens increase their civic participation. More information is available at http://www.e-democracy.org/uk/. -- 30 -- -- = Tim Erickson http://www.politalk.com St. Paul, MN - USA 651-643-0722 [EMAIL PROTECTED] iChat/AIM: stpaultim = REMINDERS: 1. Think a member has violated the rules? Email the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] Re: Tips For Effective Participation: E-Democracy
Thanks for the great feedback and suggestions for additional tips for effective participation. Here is some of what has come in so far, if you have anything to add to this lists, please contact me ASAP. Send your comments to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] or651-643-0722 How to Effectively Participate in a Local Issues Forum Additional Suggestions Original Document Available at: http://www.mail-archive.com/stpaul@mnforum.org/msg04561.html 1) If you [the poster] want to persuade other people on the list, reason with them using facts and examples. Ranting, posting facetiously, ridiculing, or twisting other posters' statements doesn't advance your position or win you supporters. It may make you feel good for a few minutes, but it adds nothing to the discussion. 2) A suggestion that we should do more to promote the use of the Web as an alternative to getting every email in your inbox. (NOTE: This has not always been very easy with the technology that we use, fortunately, it will be getting easier in the future and is something that we will be able to promote). 3) I love when people keep it to the point but cite their sources via a link so if I want to read more I can. This has given me the chances to find many information sources I have never heard of (I have a kid and don't spend hours surfing the web). 4) One of the most difficult aspects of communicating through email is that you have no idea what the emotional state is of the person on the other end. Body language and visual cues offer a lot when people are exchanging ideas. These helpers are lost during email. This is complicated by the fact that we do not, for the most part, know each other so we are really lost when it comes to personalities and ways of expression. Using email for work can be tricky for those reasons. I am always careful to be clear and do everything I can to avoid a misinterpretation of intention by the person on the other end. 5) Do you want to add something about the Subject line? My email system adds a lot of stuff before subject when I reply. When I was made aware that the stuff I send was unique to me, I have been editing it. Clear subject lines can be a savor to people trying to skim and save time. NOTE: Several participants also pointed out typographical errors. Thanks for these as well. Tim Erickson Hamline Midway [EMAIL PROTECTED] -- = Tim Erickson http://www.politalk.com St. Paul, MN - USA 651-643-0722 [EMAIL PROTECTED] iChat/AIM: stpaultim = REMINDERS: 1. Think a member has violated the rules? Email the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] Tips For Effective Participation: E-Democracy
I'm in the process of helping to write/edit the official E-Democracy training manual. I'm wondering if anyone would be willing to read the following section and provide feedback/comments/additional suggestions? What would you add to this list.? NOTE: These are tips not rules. How to Effectively Participate in a Local Issues Forum Everyone participates in a Local Issues Forum for a reason. Whether their goal is to advocate for a particular project or simply to keep informed about what is happening in their community, they usually have a purpose for subscribing to the forum. Whatever your particular purpose for participating, its worth thinking about how to make the most effective use of the time you spend reading and posting messages to the forum. Here are some tips, that will help you make better use of your time and get better results: 1. Short messages are the most effective. While it can be tempting, particularly on a complex issue you feel strongly about, to lay out a lengthy detailed argument of your position; in practice, a brief, on-point, messages is much more likely to be read and responded to. When trying to sort through a number of messages, participants will often feel overwhelmed by a long, dense message and move quickly on to a more straightforward and targeted message. 2. When possible, speak from personal experience rather than from ideology. Talking about your personal experiences in dealing with an issue creates for more compelling and persuasive reading that is easier for people to connect to. It also reinforces the local impact of the issue and makes it more likely people will respond in a constructive way even if they don't agree with you. 3. Listen and don't be afraid to ask a question. When you participate in a Local Issues Forum, try to think of yourself as engaging in a dialogue rather than a debate. In addition to stating your opinions, ask questions to try and understand others' views. People are more likely to pay attention to your point of view, if they see that you are willing to listen to others and incorporate new ideas or facts into your perspective. 4. It's o.k. to delete messages and not read them. Don't feel that you need to read every message, every day. Having a busy day? Delete. The topic doesn't interest you? Delete. Some messages look interesting, but others don't? Delete. The most important thing to keep in mind is that you should use the Issues Forum in a way that works for you and fits with your schedule. It is always o.k. to take a break and delete messages without reading them and then resume your participation when your schedule permits. 5) Whenever possible, add information to the discussion. Local Issues Forums are dependant upon participants to share information when they have it. The quality and value of the discussions go up dramatically, when individuals take the time, to share what they KNOW about a topic at hand. Discussions based upon rumor and speculation, are a source of frustration for everyone and damage the credibility of the forum. Its up to every participant, to help raise the quality of forum discussions by sharing facts and information, when they are available. 6) Never post when you are angry: One of the advantages of an online discussion is that it takes place over time. You have the luxury of being able to think about your response, before issuing it. If something in the forum really gets you angry, wait an hour or two before responding. Your much less likely to post something that you'll later regret. If you feel an immediate urge to respond, write your reply right away, but hold it an hour before hitting the send button. Reread it one last time and make necessary changes at that time. Most often, you'll find yourself making major changes or even deleting the message entirely. 7) Always reread your post before sending: It always a good idea to read back through a post one final time before sending it. You will often catch mistakes or refine your ideas, usually for the better. Unlike a verbal discussion, you leave a permanent record of your comments to in an online forum, make sure that you are going to be comfortable with the record that you are leaving. Tim Erickson [EMAIL PROTECTED] Hamline Midway -- = Tim Erickson http://www.politalk.com St. Paul, MN - USA 651-643-0722 [EMAIL PROTECTED] iChat/AIM: stpaultim = REMINDERS: 1. Think a member has violated the rules? Email the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org
[Mpls] Mpls as International Case Study
I am writing this email from Porto Allegre, Brazil where I am attending a four day workshop on citizen participation in local budgeting. I thought that my friends in Minneapolis might be interested to know, that after lunch (here in Brazil) - a researcher from the Kennedy School of Government will be presenting a paper on the Minneapolis Neighborhood Redevelopment Program as one of six case studies being considered at this international meeting. There are about 40 participants at this workshop representing 18 different countries. I'm curious about how the community activists on the ground in Minneapolis feel about the NRP program being held up as an international example? Also, can anyone update me on the future of the program? I'm a little disappointed, that don't know more about the NRP program from my neighboring city. Any comments? Best wishes, Tim Erickson St. Paul, Minnesota (writing from Porto Allegre, Brazil) [EMAIL PROTECTED] -- = Tim Erickson http://www.politalk.com St. Paul, MN - USA 651-643-0722 [EMAIL PROTECTED] iChat/AIM: stpaultim = REMINDERS: 1. Think a member has violated the rules? Email the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] Judge info?
The League of Women Voters of MN has a judicial elections voter guide on line. They do not endorse candidates. Here's a link. http://www.lwvmn.org/EdFund/Election2004Judicial.asp Another resource: Minnesota Lawyer - 2004 Election Guide http://www.minnlawyer.com/elections/2004/home.cfm Tim Erickson St. Paul, Minnesota [EMAIL PROTECTED] -- = Tim Erickson http://www.politalk.com St. Paul, MN - USA 651-643-0722 [EMAIL PROTECTED] iChat/AIM: stpaultim = REMINDERS: 1. Think a member has violated the rules? Email the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] Metro Wide Bus Strike Discussion
In the interest of facilitating a metro wide discussion of the bus strike, I've agreed to help out in the E-Democracy TC-METRO ISSUES forum, at least through the strike. NOTE: We are looking for a list manager for this list. To participate in a Metro-wide discussion of the bus strike, please join us at: http://www.mnforum.org/mailman/listinfo/tcmetro The bus strike is a Metro-wide issue and deserves a metro wide discussion. Best wishes, -- Tim Erickson List Manager St. Paul Issues Forum http://www.e-democracy.org/stpaul/ Hamline Midway Resident 651-643-0722 [EMAIL PROTECTED] St. Paul Links - http://www.e-democracy.org/stpaul/links.html The St. Paul Issues Forum is a interactive e-mail discussion on important issues about St. Paul public policy. Participation is free and open to anyone. We currently have about 350 concerned citizens and community leaders subscribed to our discussion. REMINDERS: 1. Think a member has violated the rules? Email the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] Cutting Size of City Council?
I just ran across the following information / cost cutting proposal. I'm not endorsing this idea, but am curious about what others think about it? -- In 1950, Minneapolis had 521,718 citizens represented by 13 Aldermen. Each ward had about 40,132 citizens. In 2000, Minneapolis had 382,618 citizens represented by 13 Councilmembers. Each ward has about 29,432 citizens. With the improved communications brought about by active Block Clubs, the NRP, voicemail, email, cell phones and fax, it should be possible for just 10 Councilmembers to each represent their 38,282 citizens at least as well as the Aldermen did in 1950. Since each Councilmember deservedly earns $65,000, and has a Secretary and an Aide, the total salary costs per Ward are in the $150,000/year range. The savings to eliminate 3 Councilmembers would reach $500,000/year when you consider office expenses. Future savings would be greater, unless the Council acts to revoke their automatic salary increases. http://www.finance-commerce.com/pubnot/MPLS/Erly1228.htm -- Tim Erickson St. Paul, Minnesota (watching this one from across the river, with interest) [EMAIL PROTECTED] -- = Tim Erickson http://www.politalk.com St. Paul, MN - USA 651-643-0722 [EMAIL PROTECTED] ICQ: 105978430 = TEMPORARY REMINDER: 1. Send all posts in plain-text format. 2. Cut as much of the post you're responding to as possible. Minneapolis Issues Forum - A City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Subscribe, Unsubscribe, Digest, and more: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] Re: Cutting Size of City Council?
At 3:07 PM -0600 3/6/03, Politalk wrote: In 1950, Minneapolis had 521,718 citizens represented by 13 Aldermen. I've gotten two emails suggesting that Minneapolis had 26 Aldermen in the early part of the decade, but neither person was aware of when the switch was made to 13 Aldermen. Does anyone here know? I'm sure someone does! : - ) Tim Erickson Your Neighbor In St. Paul [EMAIL PROTECTED] -- = Tim Erickson http://www.politalk.com St. Paul, MN - USA 651-643-0722 [EMAIL PROTECTED] ICQ: 105978430 = TEMPORARY REMINDER: 1. Send all posts in plain-text format. 2. Cut as much of the post you're responding to as possible. Minneapolis Issues Forum - A City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Subscribe, Unsubscribe, Digest, and more: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] Need Help Finding Public Meetings
Forwarded for St. Paul School Board Member Anne Carroll. Contact Anne at: Phone: 651-690-9162 School Board: 651-690-9156 Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] --- Hi, all, Anne Carroll here... I'm teaching a course this semester for graduate students at the Humphrey Institute on participatory management and public involvement (more on that if you're interested). As the kickoff project, students will observe and report on a meeting of an elected or appointed governmental entity that includes some public participation. The purpose is to begin to understand how meetings work, the role of the public, and group interaction. They will be documenting baseline organizational information; meeting flow and group dynamics related to group members and the public; role functions in the group; and room layout and dynamics relative to group interaction. It would be TREMENDOUSLY HELPFUL if any of you could forward either meeting schedules or links to such schedules to me before Wednesday noon. Examples include regular/ committee/ subcommittee/ citizen committee/ etc., meetings of groups such as neighborhood/district councils, county bds, city councils, legislative commissions, Met Council, school boards, township boards, charter commissions, watershed district/boards, state boards and commissions, school site councils, ad infinitum. These students live and work all over the greater Mpls/St. Paul area, so I'd appreciate any information you have. Please remember that the meeting must include public participation of some kind. While there are certainly hundreds of these going on, I'm particularly interested in your advice about meetings that may include some participatory dynamics that are especially worth watching. The due date for this project is September 25, so at least one meeting must occur before then. Any schedule through the end of November is helpful, however, since they will be doing field work for their other projects, too. Thanks very much for any help you can provide! ___ There may be times when we are powerless to prevent injustice, but there must never be a time when we fail to protest. - Elie Wiesel, writer and Nobel laureate There is no freeway to the future, no paved highway from here to there. There is only wilderness, uncertain terrain. There are no roadmaps, no signposts. So pioneering leaders rely upon a compass and a dream. - James Kouzes and Barry Posner Anne R. Carroll Carroll, Franck Associates Strategic planning and communications consulting 1357 Highland Parkway St. Paul, MN 55116 USA Phone: 651-690-9162 School Board: 651-690-9156 Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] -- = Tim Erickson http://www.politalk.com St. Paul, MN - USA 651-643-0722 [EMAIL PROTECTED] ICQ: 105978430 = ___ Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subscribe, Unsubscribe, Digest option, and more: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] The MVP Award Winners Are....
I hope that someone from the list will take a few minutes to tell the
rest of the group about last nights E-Democracy party, I'm going to
get right down to the business of sharing the really BIG news of the
night
Our MVP winners
There were no losers last night, only winners
:-)
The judges did have to huddle before the ceremony, to deal with a
uniquely Minneapolis request that we limit the winners to an even
number, so as to allow for gender balanced voting.
But the judges took the cowardly path out, and stuck with the age old
tradition of honoring 5 MVP's, leaving at least one gender
underrepresented.
However, we will take this into consideration for next years ceremony.
Without further ado, here are the winners..
The #5 2002 MVP on the Minneapolis Issues Forum is:
Steve Brandt
The #4 2002 MVP on the Minneapolis Issues Forum is:
Terrell Brown
The #3 2002 MVP on the Minneapolis Issues Forum is:
Michael Hohmann
The #2 2002 MVP on the Minneapolis Issues Forum is:
Annie Young
The #1 2002 MVP on the Minneapolis Issues Forum is:
Dramatic Pause.
Let the tension build.
Lynnell Mickelson ***
Thunderous Applause
Thanks everyone for coming to this afternoons repeat broadcast of
last nights exciting ceremony. I only hope that I've been able to
capture and share some of the excitement and enthusiasm of the
original event and cram it into this email.
Best wishes,
--
=
Tim Erickson http://www.politalk.com
St. Paul, MN - USA 651-643-0722
[EMAIL PROTECTED] ICQ: 105978430
=
Check out the current Politalk discussion called:
Making Sense Of India
http://www.politalk.com
=
___
Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy
Post messages to: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Subscribe, Unsubscribe, Digest option, and more:
http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] Close Vote - We Need Voters
Hurry, only another 24 hours to vote for Minneapolis Issues List - MVP. We had an amazing 42 folks visit the VOTING booth, so far, but that's still a below average turn out for an election of this magnitude. With the huge number of excellent nominees, we are going to need more people to cast their votes and make sure that the election is decisive. We really don't need another RECOUNT fiasco, do we. Let's make sure that our MVP is elected with an unassailable majority. There will be 5 MVPs from the Minneapolis Issues List. (PS - I shouldn't say this, but rumor has it, that a Saint Paulite did very well in some exit polls for MPLS - MVP). Have you voted YET? - - - - - - - - - Who do you think is the MOST VALUABLE POSTER? VOTE HERE: http://www.zoomerang.com/survey.zgi?32Y0TGD3X4RVT6SLN579B2CQ ANNOUNCEMENT: E-Democracy Celebration Thursday, April 25 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Sargent Preston's in the Seven Corners area of Minneapolis (near the West Bank of the University of Minnesota). We will have lots of FREE MUNCHIES. Second Annual MVP Awards (Most Valuable Posters) Candidates for statewide office and the U.S. Congress will be given a two minute greeting and a chance to promote their web sites in-person and with print materials. Other candidates, candidate/election site webmasters, and other elected officials, are also encouraged to say a quick hello and shout out their URLs! Special guests should be in attendance around 6:30 p.m. and notify E-Democracy that they plan to attend [EMAIL PROTECTED]. -- = Tim Erickson http://www.politalk.com St. Paul, MN - USA 651-643-0722 [EMAIL PROTECTED] ICQ: 105978430 = Check out the current Politalk discussion called: Making Sense Of India http://www.politalk.com = ___ Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subscribe, Unsubscribe, Digest option, and more: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] MPLS - VOTE FOR MVP
== Vote for the Minneapolis Issues List MVP at the following web site: (Please ignore the title of the survey, THIS IS THE Minneapolis Issues List MVP survey! http://www.zoomerang.com/survey.zgi?32Y0TGD3X4RVT6SLN579B2CQ DEADLINE: Noon on Thursday. == -- = Tim Erickson http://www.politalk.com St. Paul, MN - USA 651-643-0722 [EMAIL PROTECTED] ICQ: 105978430 = Check out the current Politalk discussion called: Making Sense Of India http://www.politalk.com = ___ Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subscribe, Unsubscribe, Digest option, and more: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] MVP - LAST CHANCE, check the list for errors..
Nomination Deadline 12:00 Noon Today - EXTENDED - Please check list for errors/misspellings Last chance to nominate someone for MVP (most valuable poster). Deadline is - NOON TODAY. The actual election will begin shortly thereafter. The top 5 vote getters will be officially designated the Most Valuable Posters of Minneapolis Issues List at the HUGE celebration on Thursday night. Please, take advantage of this opportunity to show your appreciation for those participants who contribute to our forums and give you a reason to keep coming back for more. Send your nominees to... [EMAIL PROTECTED] Also, please alert me to any missing or misspelled nominees! The Nominee's Are - (So Far...) Terrell Brown Rick Carney Tim Connolly Walt Cygan Andy Driscoll Karen Forbes Fran Guminga Bob Gustafson Jenny Heiser Mike Hohmann Jordan Kushner Greg Luce Wizard Marks Fred Markus Lynnell Mickelson Craig Miller Barbara Nelson Jonathan Palmer Keith Reitman R.T. Rybak Candy Sartell Catherine Shreves Matthea Smith Kevin Trainor Bob Velez Annie Young Susan Young -- = Tim Erickson http://www.politalk.com St. Paul, MN - USA 651-643-0722 [EMAIL PROTECTED] ICQ: 105978430 = Check out the current Politalk discussion called: Making Sense Of India http://www.politalk.com = ___ Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subscribe, Unsubscribe, Digest option, and more: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] MVP - Time Is Running Out....
Here are the nominations for Most Valuable Poster So far. You have two more days to get your nominations in. The list manager is not eligible. (Sorry, Dave!) Who isn't on the list, that should be? Now is your chance to say thanks to the person who challenges you the most, informs you the most, or entertains you the most. Send your nominations to (as many as you like): [EMAIL PROTECTED] Nominees Are = Terrell Brown Tim Connolly Walt Cygan Andy Driscoll Fran Guminga Bob Gustafson Jenny Heiser Michael Hohmann Greg Luce Lynnell Mickelson RT Rybak Candy Sartell Catherine Shreves Susan Young -- = Tim Erickson http://www.politalk.com St. Paul, MN - USA 651-643-0722 [EMAIL PROTECTED] ICQ: 105978430 = Check out the current Politalk discussion called: Making Sense Of India http://www.politalk.com = ___ Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subscribe, Unsubscribe, Digest option, and more: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
RE: [Mpls] RE: Light rail and utilities
However, no one has come up with even an unreasonable argument, much less a compelling one, for why light rail must go down 5th St. I don't know the answer to this question and have been curious myself. However, I certainly would hope that the answer goes something like this. The overall construction of this line will cost far far more than the cost of moving the Utility lines. While not a transportation expert, I can imagine, that the likely success of the line could be dramatically reduced by placing it on the wrong route. The success of light rail will depend dramatically on how convenient it will be to use. Shifting it one or two blocks, could reduce its ridership substantially, simply by making it less convenient for many people to use. I'm guessing that expensive studies were done to determine, exacting which routes would be most accessible to riders and lead to a successful start to the line. Can you imagine the criticisms that light rail planners would be under, after spending hundreds of millions of dollars, for not even putting the rail in the most convenient location. At 10:19 PM -0500 6/18/01, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: it seems to me that the city long ago abdicated their right to change the rules on the surface of that street without an extremely good reason. I guess, my own thoughts would be that the primary purpose of the street is transportation and that a huge investment in transportation, would justify the movement of the utilities, which are not likely to be as sensitive to location. I also think that the entire point of the article that I posted, is that the city very specifically did not abdicate their right to change the rules on the surface. That in fact, the utilities were aware all along, that their presence under the street, was at the convenience of the city and that they could be asked to be move at any time. Tim Erickson From Across the River Hamline Midway, St. Paul [EMAIL PROTECTED] -- * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tim Erickson http://www.politalk.com St. Paul, MN - USA 651-643-0722 [EMAIL PROTECTED] ICQ: 105978430 ___ Minneapolis Issues Forum - Minnesota E-Democracy Post messages to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subscribe, Unsubscribe, Digest option, and more: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] Utilities and light rail
At 11:43 PM -0500 6/8/01, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Does anyone know why it was so critical to only run on 5th St? (If this has already been discussed on this list, I'd appreciate being directed to those discussions.) The following doesn't directly answer your question, but it does answer some questions about that whole law suit thing. It was posted to MN-Transit, the Minnesota E-Democracy Session Topic list on Transportation issues. Maybe you've see it before. I've asked your specific question to that same list and will share the answer if and when I get it. Tim Erickson St. Paul [EMAIL PROTECTED] = Provided by: Dayna Kennedy Communications Manager Metro Transit/Hiawatha Line - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Utility Relocation Questions and Answers 2/26/01 Why is the Hiawatha Line being sued by Xcel? In Minnesota, private utilities are allowed to build within a public right of way (ROW) at no cost. They can maintain their utilities on those properties for decades, as Xcel has since the 1930s, at no cost. But, when that ROW is needed for a public use, the private utility must bear the cost of relocating. Private utilities need to recognize the value of being allowed to locate in the Public's Right of Way (ROW) at no cost to them. It would cost them billions of dollars to either purchase or lease the real estate necessary to deliver their service. In the case of the Xcel lawsuit, the issue is not about Light Rail. This is another attempt in a long series of attempts by private utilities to find a way to be compensated for relocation costs in opposition to a law that has been upheld by the US Supreme court since 1905. Utilities have pursued this issue for years and are continuing to do that now. The Hiawatha Light Rail Transit issue is being used to take advantage of the pressure of time. It is clear that the project is on a tight timeline. The utilities are using the threat of a delay to try to get what they would otherwise not get. This is about an attempt to get the public to cover what should be and is a reasonable cost of doing business. They are taking advantage of a situation for the gain of increasing their profits. Unfortunately, it is the public who loses. Didn't Anybody Think About the Utilities Issues Until This Month? The Hiawatha Project Office has been working closely with Xcel, Qwest and numerous other utility companies for several years. In the case of Xcel, a letter of intent was signed August 18, 2000 by Kent Larson, State Vice President of what was then known as Northern States Power (NSP), Elwyn Tinklenberg, Commissioner, Minnesota Department of Transportation and Garry Higdem, Vice President of Minnesota Transit Constructors. The following excerpt indicates their agreement to pay for relocation costs: In order to achieve the lowest possible cost for this work, Mn/DOT has conceptually agreed to include the construction of the new concrete manholes and duct banks in the Design/Build (D/B) contract for Light Rail Transit (LRT) construction. The strategy is for the D/B contractor to construct the concrete duct banks and manholes and be compensated through the D/B contract by Mn/DOT. NSP will then reimburse Mn/DOT for the expenses incurred for this work. NSP will be responsible for performing the electrical cabling installation in the new structures. Under this premise, the D/B contractor retains control of the schedule in performing its work. Qwest had been working cooperatively with our staff members up until Tuesday. In fact, as recently as February 8th, Qwest was submitting permit applications from the Hiawatha Project Office and MnDOT with the goal of beginning utility relocation in early March. What did Qwest Pay for when Denver's Light Rail was Built? In Denver, where Qwest is headquartered, the private utilities in the Public's Right of Way by franchise agreement or by permit relocated their utilities at their own cost. CDOT confirmed that the LRT project did not pay for utility relocation in construction of their LRT line. Around the country, it is not unusual for private utility companies to pay utility relocation on Public projects. While it is true that in some states it is possible for utility relocation to be included in a project cost, that is not the case in Minnesota. What is the Law in Minnesota? Minnesota State Statute is clear in establishing the Commissioner's authority to require private utilities to relocate at their expense. MS 174.35 says the commissioner of transportation may exercise the powers granted in this chapter and chapter 473, as necessary, to plan, design, acquire, construct, and equip light rail transit facilities in the metropolitan area as defined in section 473.121, subdivision 2. It is within MS 174.06 where all of the Commissioner's authority, including utility relocation, is transferred from MS 161 to be included
[Mpls] Stadium Issue
Can anyone tell me, is there a particular city staff person in Minneapolis who would be a Point Person in regards to the Stadium Debate (i.e. - the person most able to answer questions on city policy)? And if so, who would it be? I'm asking in regards to upcoming Politalk / E-Democracy discussion on Stadium Finance. http://www.politalk.com/pages/topics/stadium/index.html Private responses ok. Tim Erickson Hamline Midway St. Paul [EMAIL PROTECTED] 651-643-0722 -- * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tim Erickson http://www.politalk.com St. Paul, MN - USA 651-643-0722 [EMAIL PROTECTED] ICQ: 105978430 ___ Minneapolis Issues Forum - Minnesota E-Democracy Post messages to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subscribe, Unsubscribe, Digest option, and more: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
