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February 24, 2022 City of Ramsey City Council Planning Commission Members Dear Sirs and Madams, This letter is in support of a "no" vote on the proposal to change the zoning from low density to zoning needed for building a PACT school for the parcel of land which was donated for the purpose of building a church on said land. My concerns mostly revolve around the concept of community. What is the "look" the city is striving to present to its residents as well as outsiders? I would hope it is as a community that plans for the future as the aging/graying of America ensures the need for senior housing and senior community centers, provides free, safe indoor and outdoor physical activity and community recreation centers as the health of a community is intimately tied to the physical and mental health of its people; a community that serves all people from cradle to grave allocating its limited resources fairly and wisely; a community that looks forward well into this century being respectful of the past Ramsey, balancing preservation of the environment and developing open spaces for hiking/biking paths while cautiously and deliberately expanding commercial growth where and when it's needed. In my opinion this parcel of land is too small to adequately support a high school with it's attendant need for new roads, sewer, and parking lots, as well as increased noise and traffic. Rather, this land could be used to better the community by serving a larger population, such as building a much -needed community recreation center or improving the park by providing safer playground equipment. This proposal places the needs of outside persons over the real needs of Ramsey residents. Ramsey could use many things such as a public high school, community center(s), nature -inspired trails and parks that could be used by all, and more affordable housing to increase the tax base of the city. I do not currently live in Ramsey, but I hope to retire there within a couple years because it is a beautiful and growing community of which I would like to be a part. I know that cities need to grow and develop, but it should be a thoughtful expansion based on data (eg. Environmental impact statements), the needs of many people over the wants of a few, future looking instead of in -the -moment decisions, and fiscally responsible. I hope that you will carefully consider my concerns and vote "no" on the proposal to change the zoning of this piece of land. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me. Thank you for your time and service to the residents of Ramsey. Sincerely, Dr. Linda J. Bowers Professor