Yesterday, Steve Brandt corrected my assertion that Basim Sabri had not used any government money in his rehab of buildings from 2nd Avenue to 5th Avenue on Lake Street.
Of course, Brandt is right. But it should be noted that Sabri did not seek the two grants that totaled $85,000. When Sabri was negotiating with Central Neighborhood Improvement Association for the purchase of 401 East Lake, the previous owners had a rehabilitation grant in place from the City for $60,000. Sabri said he didn't want the grant, but the neighborhood association urged him to take it. They got $8000 of the grant for administrative costs. Observers at the meeting say David Piehl echoed the common sentiment in the room by saying, "Take it. It's the frosting on the cake." The origin of the remaining $25,000 grant is even more interesting. The City offered loans to businesses to rehab their properties on Lake Street that after a few years were forgiven and became grants. The former 8th Ward Council Member urged Sabri to apply for the grant. Sabri said he didn't want it. The Council Member insisted and brought over the forms. Further details of the relationship at that point and a quid pro quo that resulted from the grant will have to wait until this matter is aired in Federal District Court, if that is the fate of the current appeal to the U. S. Supreme Court. So, it is true Sabri got $85,000 in grants (minus the $8000 that went to CNIA). But it is also true he didn't seek out the money, believing all the time that it would be more trouble than it was worth. Ed Felien Powderhorn TEMPORARY REMINDER: 1. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. 2. If you don't like what's being discussed here, don't complain - change the subject (Mpls-specific, of course.) ________________________________ 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
