The Minneapolis DFL leadership routinely forces citizens into Court as "punishment" for resisting their political agenda. The former Council's attitude led by Jackie Cherryhomes was - If you don't like it, sue us!
In my case, Minneapolis has WASTED over $1 million of taxpayer money FOR NO REASON! The City wanted George Sherman to have 2 acres of my land. I said NO WAY! The City said SCREW YOU. This tactic usually works because most people cannot afford to sue. Well, I couldn't afford it either, but I did it anyway - for the sake of principle and to preserve constitutionally protected property rights. The City acted in "bad faith" according to the Judge and must pay my legal fees in addition to its own, plus damages. Eight years have been wasted in Court - AND 120 units of affordable housing (with NO financial subsidies) DID NOT GET BUILT. WHY? One reason is that the MCDA tries to cover its payroll with FEES from subsidized projects. If a private party builds housing at a reasonable cost, the MCDA doesn't get a piece of the action. The MCDA has become a real estate MONOPOLY in this town. Just try to build something without the MCDA sticking its nose into the project and its tentacles into your pockets. Jim Graham inquires..... "Vicki could you investigate the large multi-unit housing providers, utilizing subsidies provided by political cronies to provide housing for huge profits and no risk?" Vicky is happy to oblige...... I have been working on this for some time. Several listlurkers have contacted me offline and contributed valuable additions to my arsenal. A little patience is needed though - I have lots of demands on my time. THINK ABOUT IT..... This kind of thing happens when a City has no political opposition. It's called the steamroll effect. Many listmembers are worried about Republican control of the Federal government. Absolutely right - it can be dangerous at all levels. No checks and balances. Competition keeps people honest: Without it corruption erupts. Until later - I'll be out of town for a while. Vicky Heller North Oaks and Cedar-Riverside _______________________________________ Minneapolis Issues Forum - A City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@;mnforum.org Subscribe, Unsubscribe, Digest, and more: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
