Reading the Highland Villager #7 (October 21 - November 3 Edition)

[Basically, the problem is that the best source of local streets & sidewalks news in Saint Paul is the Highland Villager. This wouldn't be a problem, except that its not available online. I'm reading the Highland Villager so that you don't have to. Until this newspaper goes online, sidewalk information must be set free.]

Total # of articles about sidewalks: 7
Total # of articles about sidewalks written by Jane McClure: 7


Title: St. Paul looks to spread wealth of $2M windfall: Large utility bill refund could benefit a dozen city projects
Author: Jane McClure

Short short version: Como Park conservatory has been overpaying its utility bills for many years now [Oops! -ed.], which means that the city will build new picnic benches, a new park field, and start work on a "circulator bus in the Summit-University neighborhood".


Title: Reuse of Ford site may require big subsidy
Author: Jane McClure

Short short version: Retaining industrial jobs at the massive Ford Plant site in Saint Paul will be expensive. [It's too bad because its an ideal waterpower and cave location for a factory. -ed.] Saint Paul is in stiff competition with every other de-industrializing city in the country for industrial and "green" industrial jobs.


Title: City lowers fees but keeps petition in place for backyard chicken coops
Author: Jane McClure

Short short version: A chicken permit in Saint Paul only costs $27 now, down from $72. Bur you still have to get 75% of your neighbors to sign off on it.


Title: Sweeping changes urged for off-street parking requirements
Author: Jane McClure

Short short version: St Paul planning commission is suggesting changing required off-street parking. [This is a big deal. Fewer req'd parkign spots = fewer cars = more transit and walking neighborhoods. -ed.] Many public meetings to come in November and December, but this issue will be hotly contested because people cling their neighborhood parking spots white-knuckled death grips.


Title: University businesses given an early warning on light rail
Author: Jane McClure

Short short version: DT StP businesses got shafted during construction earlier this year, b/c the construction crews didn't put up "we're open" signs. They are advising University Avenue business owners to be sure to do that pronto when construction begins on the LRT.


Title: Council approaves increases in right-of-way maintenance assessments of 8-plus percent
Author: Jane McClure

Short short version: State LGA-cut induced budget crunch at the city means that Saint Paul will be charging more for street maintenance. Obviously property owners don't like this.


Title: Commission supports variances, rezoning for a Subway on Selby
Author: Jane McClure

Short short version: St Paul planning comission approved variances for a Subway sandwich shop on Selby Avenue and Victoria Street, on what used to be a gas station site. The plan required parking variances, of the kind noted above. Full vote to come soon.