Agenda - Council - 08/24/2010 - Laserfiche WebLink

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From: Emil)Nesse To: Rerq_Jeffrey J. JQNR) Subject: RE: MRCCA urban east work group meeting June 22nd Date: Wednesday, June 30, 2010 5:00:30 PM June 30, 2010 Jeff Berg DNR Waters Division 500 Lafayette Road St. Paul, MN 55155-4032 Dear Mr. Berg and Park Service Members, First, the Saint Paul Area Chamber of Commerce would like to thank you for the opportunity to be a part of the Mississippi River/Corridor Critical Area Rulemaking project. We appreciate your willingness to consider our suggestions and comments in an effort to provide our region with a business -friendly environment. Local commerce provides the tax base and jobs necessary to maintain vibrant and vital communities. Thus, we must ensure no existing business is made non -conforming through the rulemaking process. If current businesses are deemed non -conforming, we will not only inhibit future expansion but risk losing a strong business presence completely. The rules that will eventually dictate much of what current and future business can and cannot do along the Mississippi River Corridor must strike a balanced result. While there is room for open space along the corridor, it should not be created at the expense of railroad or sites like the Ford plant. It is imperative that spaces with true economic value not be minimized. We must pave the way for economic development by allowing these types of areas to operate as what is commonly referred to as "mixed use." The City of Saint Paul cannot afford to allow industry to take a back seat to open space. The only way to achieve true economic stability and vitality is by allowing businesses to expand and prosper. Finally, as the rulemaking process progresses, it will be essential to clearly define the terms used. In order to make informed decisions and provide commentary, a set of defined terms would be most helpful. Sincerely, Emily Nesse Public Affairs Saint Paul Area Chamber of Commerce 401 N. Robert St. Ste. 150 Saint Paul, MN 55101 ph: 651-265-2767