I'm not saying that this is a terrible thing to do. I don't know. I'm just raising some questions and hoping someone more knowledgable or insightful can answer them. Again, I understand the city's motivation. I just wonder about the city's association with the developer community.
I don't know that I'm more knowledgeable than Charlie and the questions that he raises are good ones. I don't think that there is a black and white answer - and I'm pretty sure that Charlie would agree.
There are good reasons to worry about such relationships, however I can also see benefits to such cooperation. Like most things in public policy, there are pros and cons, and Charlie has pretty much identified them.
There are risks of corruption and waste, when government and developers work together - but, such cooperation might also lead to efficiencies and flexibility that might not naturally occur. If the city/public wants some input or control over development plans, than the city either needs to get in the development business themselves or find some way of working with developers.
I tend think, that it might be better to have the city working with developers - rather than trying to do it themselves. I think that what is necessary is sufficient transparency and public input, to make sure that the process in not abused.
My comments are meant to be general. I'm neither defending or attacking this particular deal, of which I have not particular knowledge.
I would really love to hear John Manillo's thoughts on this issue - or any other property managers/developers that we have on the forum.
I'm sure Chuck Repke has some interesting insights on this kind of deal.
Anyone care to comment on how the city can best cooperate with developers to make sure that key development sites are developed with the long term interests of the city in mind?
Tim Erickson Hamline Midway [EMAIL PROTECTED]
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Tim Erickson http://www.politalk.com St. Paul, MN - USA 651-643-0722
[EMAIL PROTECTED] iChat/AIM: stpaultim
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