Preserve the Minneapolis Park System
The Minneapolis Police and Fire departments aren't the only agencies threatened with budget cuts. The 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.
Cross-posted and comments welcome at Speed Gibson.
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