Open Time Speakers Regarding Crown Hydro At The Park Board Meeting On May 4, 2011
OPEN TIME SPEAKERS REGARDING CROWN HYDRO AT THE PARK BOARD ON MAY 4, 2011
At the May 4, 2011 meeting, the Board suspended the rules to allow for open time comments relating to an action item. The speakers and brief summaries are listed below:
Arlene Fried read a letter captioned "protecting parkland, " and urged the Board to reject the Crown Hydro project.
Alex Hoag spoke against the Crown Hydro project, stated “this is a boondoggle” and asked that the Board not precede with a project that is bad for the Park Board.
Dick Gillespie spoke of changes he has seen at St. Anthony falls, initially supported the Crown Hydro project and now does not. Mr. Gillespie spoke of aesthetics, historical nature and design/project Uncertainty.
Lois Kelly and Rodger Ricketts spoke on behalf of the Sierra club, supported alternative energy, however did not support the Crown Hydro project because it would “in effect sell park land”. Other hydroelectric options were proposed.
Edna Brazaitis stated that the public has not had an opportunity to comment on the Crown Hydro Project since 2004 and urged the Board for additional public comment time. Ms. Brazaitis raised questions of financial viability and the spillway.
Commissioner Olson stated for the record that members of the public have had the opportunity to speak to the Full Board the first or third Wednesday of the month for the past seven years.
Tom Diamond posed two questions regarding appropriateness of a hydro project. Mr. Diamond spoke in regards to current legislation. Mr. Diamond closed, recommending that the Board not become involved in any situation that includes “threats” or “intimidation”.
Tom Balcom spoke of water flow, comparing Minnehaha creek to the Mississippi River and the control of water through a dam.
Shawn Fitzgerald spoke in opposition to the Crown Hydro project. Ms. Fitzgerald asked for a transparent process, citizen involvement, notice, a public hearing and to let the people be involved in this decision.
David Tinjum spoke against the Crown Hydro project. Mr. Tinjum compared risks to benefits, and felt that the risk was greater that its benefit. Mr. Tinjum then spoke in regards to the letter of intent and house bill 1440.
Former Commissioner Walter Bratt, spoke of a Northern State Power proposal to expand a hydroelectric facility. Commissioner Bratt stated that he is not opposed to hydroelectric power, but is opposed to the proposed Crown Hydro location, because of the falls. Commissioner Bratt continued, speaking of water quality, quantity and protecting the citizens of Minneapolis.