[Mpls] Coda on the Boulevard Project

[Frank Hornstein]

Thanks to Dean and Sue for their posts on the Boulevard Project. I agree with their insights and analysis of this fight. In addition, I believe the tide turned in support of the project after members of area churches and synagogues began to organize in favor of the development. At a mid-August meeting it appeared as if opponents of the Boulevard far outnumbered supporters--I heard by a 2-1 ratio. One month later the numbers at a criticial Lynnhurst neighborhood meeting were reversed--at least two supporters for every opponent. Area congregatons turned out many of those testifying in support of the development.   Faith groups also sponsored a 13th Ward city council candidates forum on affordable housing and turned out for both the Nov.5 planning commission meeting, and Tuesdays City Council Zoning and Planning  Committee vote. The role and activism of the faith community was a important and postive antidote to the demagoguery and misinformation promulgated by the opponents.   We now have had three public bodies review the project in some capacity. Two of the three votes were unanimous, and at the Lynnhurst Neighborhood Association there was only one "nay" vote. This represents a powerful vote of confidence for the mixed income development, and  demonstrates the importance of organizing a strong pro-affordable housing consistuency in Minnnepolis.   Frank Hornstein Ward 13