[Winona Online Democracy] Dwayne certainly has reason to be concerned about world and U.S. population growth, but the enormous political and religious issues-acceptable policies on birth control, immigration, prioritization of medical treatment, economic development in the third world, to mention a few-make any solutions problematical for a long time. Solutions acceptable to one group are anathema to another. Maybe there will be no ultimate solution and the world will simply implode.
But Phil is correct in pointing out that we do have problems in the state right now that must be addressed regardless of overall demographic issues. Winona will continue to have problems in the short run. Although in the next century Winona County's population could decline while that of the large urban areas increase, the current housing trends in the county suggest a transfer of population from central Winona to outlying areas. Vehicle use is expanding and non-polluting cars will simply replace the current gas-consuming ones without reducing traffic problems. City and county officials must give attention to future road needs. Any approval of new developments should be accompanied by plans of new road needs and the means by which needs might be met, with cost issues and sources of funding (including state) spelled out. It would be useful, moreover, if officials could present information on their plans for meeting the current problems caused by the expansion of buildings along the arteries leading into and out of Winona. The upcoming elections should involve discussion of these issues. Roy Nasstrom _______________________________________________ This message was posted to Winona Online Democracy All messages must be signed by the senders actual name. No commercial solicitations are allowed on this list. To manage your subscription or view the message archives, please visit http://mapnp.mnforum.org/mailman/listinfo/winona Any problems or suggestions can be directed to mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] If you want help on how to contact elected officials, go to the Contact page at http://www.winonaonlinedemocracy.org
