[speedgibson] Speed Gibson: Preserve the Minneapolis Park System

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Posted by Speed Gibson:
Preserve the Minneapolis Park System
http://speedgibson.powerblogs.com/posts/1247023650.shtml


   The Minneapolis Police and Fire departments aren't the only agencies
   threatened with budget cuts. The [1]Minneapolis Park Board is seeking
   downright independence via a Charter Amendment they hope to get on the
   November ballot. I don't live in Minneapolis, but I'm all for it. It's
   that rare exception where I'd be willing to pay for a better
   Minneapolis. Not a lot, but it shouldn't take a lot, either.
   The Minneapolis Park system is easily, far and away the best in
   Minnesota and many other states. It is as much as anything, the very
   identity of Minneapolis, the City of Lakes. Even most of the
   neighborhood parks, even in the tough areas, are large and scenic, and
   compare well with their suburban equivalents. I think I'm qualified to
   make such an assessment, having walked every street of Brooklyn
   Center, Brooklyn Park, Robbinsdale, Golden Valley, Crystal, New Hope,
   Plymouth, Maple Grove, Osseo, Champlin, St. Louis Park, Fridley, St.
   Anthony, Columbia Heights, Spring Lake Park, Mounds View, and New
   Brighton. And close to 40% of Minneapolis to date.
   There is also talk of merging it with the Hennepin County Three Rivers
   park system, entirely the wrong answer. Turn these family jewels over
   to likes of a Mike Opat and he'll soon pave over Powderhorn Park to
   build a Vikings stadium.
   The truth is, Minneapolis has more than enough income to support
   police, fire, and its park system. Support this amendment and force
   the Mayor and Council to cut the real fat, like their political pals
   in Community Development.

References

   1. http://www.startribune.com/local/50088722.html