This is great thread, to which I'll add my two cents: All of the suggestions so far have been about how the city or MCDA could deal with problem properties. I think that is the wrong approach.
First, the demolition moratorium idea: this could leave a bunch of derelict houses sitting around, causing unneccessary pain to neighbors. Some houses are just not worth it, so I disagree. Second: having said the above, I personally do not trust our city officials to always know which properties are worth rehabbing and which are not. Only the market can do that job properly. If someone has a vision and some cash, I say let them have at it. So here's my suggestion: Any vacant/boarded properties which come into the city's possession ought to be put on the market immediately. They should be sold to the highest bidder. That purchaser must, of course, comply with the codes and standards that have been set forth, (i.e., they can't just slum the place out) but ought to be allowed a reasonable opportunity to salvage the building. If a property doesn't sell within some amount of time, that can be taken as an indication that there is no financial incentive to rehabbing the place, and it is likely that demolition is the best option. Tired of the wrecking ball AND of living with tinderboxes... Connie Nompelis Ward 6 - Ventura Village __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Find the one for you at Yahoo! Personals http://personals.yahoo.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
