My sense is that a lot of people in our ward have both a sense of sadness and relief that this chapter has come to a close. I opposed Joe Biernat on many issues but I have also found this whole episode to be painful. It certainly has been damaging and embarrassing to the reputation of our ward and city and I don't think many Third Ward residents relish what has happened.
I would like to mention one person who really deserves some positive recognition through all of this: Third Ward aide Becky Hunter. Becky has done an amazing, awesome job over the last few months under what must have been extremely stressful circumstances. As Joe became increasingly unavailable and focused on his personal situation, Becky in many ways took up the slack and filled many of his functions, attending numerous meetings, working on constituent services, and, increasingly, being involved in policy discussions. This was all in addition to continuing with her own regular full-time duties as aide. It would be very helpful if Becky can continue on during this interim period. Regarding 3rd Ward election candidates/Valdis: I assume that he must have moved from being independent into the Republican camp. His yard featured huge Norm Coleman signs, as well as signs for other Republican endorsed candidates, during the recent election. But I haven't heard for sure if he is running either way. Bruce Shoemaker Holland Neighborhood Ward 3 (for now...) _______________________________________ 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
