Park Board Meeting Tonight - Crown Hydro on the Agenda

Show your opposition to this project, show up at the Minneapolis Park Board meeting tonight to find out what will happen to St. Anthony Falls and Mill Ruins Park.  Show the Park Board you're paying attention.

5:00 PM

2117 W. Broadway, Minneapolis

Strong Arguments Against the Crown Hydro Project

From: THOMAS R DIMOND <tdimond@q.com> Date: May 18, 2011 11:43:32 AM CDT To: ednab <ednab@mac.com> Subject: Comments to the Minneapolis Parks Board   Tom Dimond 2119 Skyway Drive Saint Paul, MN 55119 May 16, 2011 RE: Crown Hydro Thank you for the opportunity to provide input on the proposed letter of intent. It is difficult to comment with specificity, detail or accuracy because the proposal has changed in design and nature so many times it is not entirely clear what the current proposal includes. This limits the ability of the public to provide informed input. It limits the ability of Commissioners to analyze and discuss this project with your colleagues and constituents before embarking on a course of action that could negatively impact the river and tie the hands of future Commissioners for 99 years. Within the context of these limits I would like to offer these comments about the latest proposal. The water supply for Saint Anthony Falls should not be sold. The Mississippi River is known as the Father of Waters or as Annie refers to it as Grandfather Mississippi. It is the most important river and flyway in North America. This area would not be a National Park if it were not for the river. After all, it is the Mississippi National River and Recreational Area. It is also the State designated Mississippi River Critical Area. Along the full length of this majestic river there is only one waterfall. Minnesota and Minneapolis are fortunate to be home to this valuable asset. Protecting the source of water for the falls is of paramount importance. The public water supply for the falls should not be sold for private gain. Protecting the public water supply for the water fall is a public trust. It is hard to imagine any public official would even consider selling the water supply of the falls. The Parks Board is entrusted with protecting Grandfather Mississippi. There is no alternative to the waterfall. There is no alternative source of water for Saint Anthony Falls. There is no alternative waterfall on the Mississippi River. There are many alternatives to generate 3.2 MW of energy. If Crown Hydro is not constructed the grant money will be awarded to an alternative renewable energy project. Why would the Parks Board reduce or eliminate the flow of water over Saint Anthony Falls to generate 3.2 MW of electricity? Crown Hydro proposes to generate 3.2 MW. The Nobles wind farm generates 201 MW and Grand Meadow 100 MW. Excel has 1,491 MW of wind power. Biomass generates 193 MW. Conversion from coal to natural gas provides cleaner energy. Riverside generates 511 MW and High Bridge 570 MW. At Black Dog the 253 MW coal facility, is being replaced with a 688 MW natural gas facility. The increase in capacity is 453 MW. Conservation is the best alternative to increased production. If there is going to be an increase in production, it would take 62 Crown Hydro projects to produce what one wind farm generates. It would take 178 Crown Hydro projects to generate what the High Bridge plant can generate. There are many alternatives to produce this small amount of energy but there is no alternative to water for the waterfall. It is the only waterfall in the National Park and the only waterfall on the Mississippi River. The waterfall is not an amusement park attraction that you turn on and off. The Parks Board should be commended for requiring a minimum of 2,000 cubic feet per second of water for the falls. Many would rightly make the case that no water should be diverted from the falls. Reducing the flow of water diminishes the majesty of the falls. The sound, turbulence and spray from the falls directly relates to the flow of water over the falls. Any dewatering or diminishing of the falls is ill advised. Past decision have had a cumulative effect of dewatering the falls. The Parks Board should not abandon the minimum requirement of water over the falls. The letter of intent only requires the minimum flow during prime viewing periods. The stated reason for this change is the project is not economically viable if 2,000 cfs of water goes over the falls. The Parks Board is responsible for protecting the river. The Parks Board should not bailout troubled investments. The public spoke loud and clear that they did not appreciate the government bailout of bad investments on Wall Street. The public is unlikely to appreciate the Parks Board creating a troubled asset relief program. The falls should not be allowed to dry up because a proposed project is not financially viable. If the project is not financially viable then it should not be built. Conflict of interest The Parks Board creates a real potential for conflict of interest if it takes a financial stake in an investment that is financially unviable due to Board policy. The report from the Superintendent states that Crown has indicated that with a Park Board minimum requirement of 2,000 cfs over the falls at all times the project loses viability. The minimum requirement of water flowing over the falls should not be based on whether the Board gets a financial ownership interest in the business. In particular, the size of the ownership interest the Parks Board receives should not be based on the Parks Board decision of minimum water flow over the falls. Webster’s Dictionary defines bribe as something that serves to induce or influence. The Parks Board should not take an ownership stake in an investment it regulates. The Parks Board should continue to support a minimum 2,000 CFS of water over the falls. If Crown Hydro is allowed to take 1,000 cfs the falls will run dry 135 days of the year. The current water demand is 3,700 cfs. Allowing Crown Hydro to remove an additional 1,000 cfs will leave the falls dry 37% of the days or 135 days a year. The Wenk report shows that existing demand already drops flow over the falls to 1,000 cfs or less on 37% of the days (1931-2003). If you remove another 1,000 cfs there is no water left for the falls. Cumulative potential effects The environmental review must take into account cumulative potential effects or cumulative impacts. The reduction of flow over the falls must also consider the cumulative impacts of other diversions of water. The impacts of other Hydro projects at Saint Anthony Falls must be considered. In 2006, the Minnesota Supreme Court elevated the obligation of RGU’s to address in the environmental review cumulative potential effects. Cumulative potential effects also must be considered in the decision on the need for an EIS. The Parks Board should require an EIS. An EIS is a likely outcome and agreeing to an EIS can expedite the process and better inform the Board and public. The EIS is a thorough study of the project’s environmental impacts and a comprehensive analysis of its economic and sociological effects. It considers reasonable alternatives, including the “no build alternative”. When completed, the review gives the government and general public information to determine whether the project is environmentally acceptable and what mitigation measures are needed. The EAW is a procedure that uses a worksheet with a standardized list of questions to screen projects that may have the potential for significant environmental effects. We should all be able to agree that dewatering the only falls on the Mississippi River and excavation and construction in a National Registered Historic District located in a National Park may have the potential for significant environmental effects. Limit any proposed lease or agreement to 2049. The FERC license is set to expire in 2049. Any proposed agreements should expire in 38 years not 99 years. This allows future Commissioners to evaluate if a new lease or agreement is still appropriate in 2049. The Parks Board should remove itself from any negotiations until the sale is complete and there is a new owner. The Parks Board risks making statements that a potential buyer of Crown Hydro might rely on. It is also difficult for the Board and public to evaluate the viability of the owner to implement an agreement when you do not know who the buyer is. The Parks Board should not be intimidated by bad legislation. This session the DNR was told if they want money for State Parks and Forests they should cut down and sell the Walnut trees. To the DNR’s credit they pointed out that cutting the trees in the parks was less profitable than many think, and that loss of the trees diminishes the values of the parks they are entrusted to protect. The Parks Board was told by some in the Legislature that you should sell the water that flows over the falls. The response should be the same as the DNR. The Parks Board is entrusted to protect the flow over the falls and any potential financial gains are short sighted when you consider the loss to our National Park. Any agreements must be conditioned on a new programmatic agreement. The previous agreement is 13 years old and based on a different site. All parties, including the public, should have an opportunity to evaluate and provide input on any new impacts and what should be included in the programmatic agreement. The 1998 agreement raised questions if the project can be done without loss of the historic resource. SHPO states that if the historic races can be reused by repairing the in-place historic materials and following the Secretary of Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation, Crown Hydro’s proposal may be acceptable. It goes on to say that if in order to use the races, all the historic material needs to be removed and new races built with new material in the approximate same locations, the historic resource would be lost. There has been discussion of building a new concrete and steel race to replace one of the races, and reconstructing another race with new material in order to widen and deepen it. The current packet of information does not provide information on what actual construction impacts are proposed in 2011. The 1998 agreement must be replaced with a new 2011 agreement signed by all the parties.

New “JobNow” Program at Central Library

The Library is now offering “JobNow,” a real-time online resumé and job interview coaching service.

The service is free, and all that’s needed is a Library card and Internet access to log on and connect with a carefully screened Job Coach.  The Job Coach will offer resumé feedback, interview coaching, resources for your job search, along with other career tips.

In addition to the Central Library location, people can seek in-person help at four other Hennepin Library Jobs and Small Business Centers.  They are located at Brookdale, East Lake, North Regional, and Southdale.

Stone Arch Bridge to Be Shut Down? - 49 Steps to Madness PT 1 - The Crown Hydro Project

This is installament 1 of a 5 part series looking at the proposed Crown Hydro project.  The State of Minnesota is attempting to force the Minneapolis Park Board to not only approve this project, but also provide Nationally Historic Parkland to a private developer.

It Could Be Just a Few Steps Away.  Literally, and figuratively.   It could happen as soon as this fall if the Minneapolis Park Board approves the controversial Crown Hydro project proposed to be built at the foot of the Stone Arch Bridge in the Minneapolis Riverfront.

Literally.  The site of the proposed hydroelectric power plant is only steps away from the entrance to the Stone Arch Bridge.

Photo taken from the entrance to the Stone Arch Bridge

 

49 steps away to be exact.  I counted.  On Saturday, May 8, 2011 when Kim and I were taking photos at Mill Ruins Park.  I’m not that tall, and my legs are kind of short, so it’s really close by.

Crown Hydro wants the Minneapolis Park Board to give them this Nationally Historic Parkland to build a hydroelectric power generation facility.  It will be an underground facility.  Which means:

1. They are going to have to dig a great big hole.  A really, really big hole.
2. They will need lots of heavy equipment to dig that giant hole in the ground.  That equipment needs room to operate.  Outside of the hole.
3. They will needs tons of materials to build the power plant in that great big hole.  It will need to be stored outside of the hole.
4. They will need a construction trailer, port-a-potty’s, space for workers to have their morning coffee, park their trucks, store more big equipment…you get the idea.  All OUTSIDE the hole.

Hmm…Where will it all go?  Will they allow bike riders and joggers and walkers and tourists to traverse through the middle of the construction site?

Crown Hydro has not made an specific commitment to keep the Stone Arch Bridge open during construction.  They refuse to discuss details until they Park Board gives them the Parkland.   Hmmm…

Figuratively.  The Minneapolis Park Board is scheduled to vote on this project on Wednesday, May 18.  If it passes, Crown Hydro, and the closing of the Stone Arch Bridge, could be just a few steps, and a few days away.

Download our flyer to for info on how you can help stop this ill-conceived project…

About This Series
Kim and I walked down to check out the location of the Crown Hydro project located in Mill Ruins Park at St. Anthony Falls.  The proximity to the Stone Arch Bridge and other important historical treasures surprised us, so I thought I'd take a rough measure - I'd "step it off".  It was 49 steps from the center of the proposed Hydroelectric facility to the foot of the Stone Arch Bridge.  I decided to dig a little deeper.  This 5 part series is the result of that effort.

49 Steps to Madness - The Crown Hydro Project

Pt 1 - Stone Arch Bridge to Be Shut Down?

Pt 2 - St. Anthony Falls to Be Shut Off 9 Months Per Year?

Pt 3 - Mill Ruins Park to Become and Underwater Attraction?

Pt 4 - Shake, Rattle & Ruins

Pt 5 - State Planning a Hostile Takeover of Minneapolis

Update on Tuesday, May 17, 2011 at 7:40AM by David Tinjum

Please attend the Minneapolis Park Board meeting May 18 at 5:00 PM to show your support for stopping this ill-conceived project.

Contact your elected officials and ask them to drop their support...

Mill District Eateries Rate Very High on Mpls St. Paul Magazine RestaurantRater @SanctuaryRest @spoonriver1

Below is a sampling of Mill District Establishments that ranked very high on Mpls St. Paul Magazines RestaurantRater:

Sanctuary
In this graciously restored fieldstone building, Sanctuary's menu spans the globe with new-age verve. Call it classic fusion-Latino and Asian flavors via French technique. Chef Patrick Atanalian's plates are surprisingly precise and balanced. Michael Kutscheid, polished maitre d' and co-owner, presides with enthusiasm and charm.
Critics' Rating: 84

Sea Change
The lure is sustainably sourced seafood prepared and served with the visual, textural, and flavor-packed flair that are the hallmarks of Tim McKee's restaurant concepts. Whether it's raw bar treats bursting with freshness, small plates boasting unorthodox combinations, or a full complement of non-fish entrees, the menu covers the waterfront. Toss in a remodeled interior that feels more open and casual than the former Cue, and some of the best service you'll find locally and you have a spot that's up to either pre-theater chumming or destination dining.
Critics' Rating: 93

Spoonriver
Brenda Langton's modern eatery is a chic place to sip exotic cocktails and dine on creative, seasonal, locally raised, chef-driven fare within a stone's throw of the Guthrie Theater. Innovative flavors and a focus on nonmeat offerings are hallmarks here.
Critics' Rating: 83.3

St. Anthony Falls to Be Shut Off 9 Months Per Year? 49 Steps to Madness PT 2 - The Crown Hydro Project

This is installament 2 of a 5 part series looking at the proposed Crown Hydro project.  The State of Minnesota is attempting to force the Minneapolis Park Board to not only approve this project, but also provide Nationally Historic Parkland to a private developer.

The Crown Hydro project at St. Anthony Falls and Mill Ruins Park, if approved, will give the developer the right to shut off St. Anthony Falls from September 22 through June 20 each year.

From Section 5 of the Letter of Intent being considered by the Minneapolis Park Board

stating the intent to keep St. Anthony Falls flowing at the rate of “2,000 cfs during the prime viewing periods, such best  viewing periods, considered for purposes of this Letter of Intent as June 21 – September 21.”

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) License Article 404

“During low flows in July and August, the project will operate with up to 500 cfs during the daylight hours even if it dries up the falls . . . “

Will “St. Anthony Wet Cement” be the new name of this iconic symbol of Minneapolis?

Rather than being a year round attraction for walkers, runners, bikers (yes bikers) and tourists, seems we could have an amusement park type of attraction for the 3 months each year.  Who’ll get to flip the switch to turn on the Falls each year on June 21?  Maybe the developer can hold a lottery to increase his profits?  Better yet, why not just move the whole attraction to Valley Fair, which happens to be in the district of Representative Michael Beard (R) District: 35A, sponsor of the Legislation that started this fiasco?

In all seriousness, St. Anthony Falls is the Historic Birthplace of Minneapolis, an iconic symbol of our City, and an important part of the daily lives of thousands of people both local and from all parts of the world.  How did this absurd proposal even make it to this point?  Will a dry falls be the legacy of MPRB Superintendant Miller, Board President John Erwin and the current Board?

Bottom line: The Minneapolis Park Board is scheduled to vote on this project on Wednesday, May 18.  If it passes, Crown Hydro, and "St. Anthony Wet Cement", could be just a few steps, and a few days away.

Download our flyer to for info on how you can help stop this ill-conceived project…

About This Series
Kim and I walked down to check out the location of the Crown Hydro project located in Mill Ruins Park at St. Anthony Falls.  The proximity to the Stone Arch Bridge and other important historical treasures surprised us, so I thought I'd take a rough measure - I'd "step it off".  It was 49 steps from the center of the proposed Hydroelectric facility to the foot of the Stone Arch Bridge.  I decided to dig a little deeper.  This 5 part series is the result of that effort.

49 Steps to Madness - The Crown Hydro Project

Pt 1 - Stone Arch Bridge to Be Shut Down?

Pt 2 - St. Anthony Falls to Be Shut Off 9 Months Per Year?

Pt 3 - Mill Ruins Park to Become and Underwater Attraction?

Pt 4 - Shake, Rattle & Ruins

Pt 5 - State Planning a Hostile Takeover of Minneapolis

Update on Tuesday, May 17, 2011 at 7:39AM by David Tinjum

Please attend the Minneapolis Park Board meeting May 18 at 5:00 PM to show your support for stopping this ill-conceived project.

Contact your elected officials and ask them to drop their support...

Mill Ruins Park to Become an Underwater Attraction? 49 Steps to Madness PT 3 - The Crown Hydro Project

This is installament 3 of a 5 part series looking at the proposed Crown Hydro project.  The State of Minnesota is attempting to force the Minneapolis Park Board to not only approve this project, but also provide Nationally Historic Parkland to a private developer.

The Crown Hydro project at St. Anthony Falls and Mill Ruins Park, if approved, will result in a huge increase in the volume of water flowing into Mill Ruins Park through the historic tailrace.

Anyone who has spent time in this area of the park knows what this could mean.  Would this area of the park be underwater?  Will it have to be shut down for public safety?

The current Crown Hydro project to be voted on at the May 18 meeting of the Minneapolis Park Board makes no mention of this risk to Mill Ruins Park.  Has anyone taken a step back to identify the potential risks of this project?  We have no way of knowing how real this risk is until a thorough evaluation of this project is undertaken.  At this point, sadly, none exists.

Bottom line: The Minneapolis Park Board is scheduled to vote on this project on Wednesday, May 18.  If it passes, Crown Hydro, and a new underwater amusement attraction, could be just a few steps, and a few days away.

Download our flyer to for info on how you can help stop this ill-conceived project…

About This Series
Kim and I walked down to check out the location of the Crown Hydro project located in Mill Ruins Park at St. Anthony Falls.  The proximity to the Stone Arch Bridge and other important historical treasures surprised us, so I thought I'd take a rough measure - I'd "step it off".  It was 49 steps from the center of the proposed Hydroelectric facility to the foot of the Stone Arch Bridge.  I decided to dig a little deeper.  This 5 part series is the result of that effort.

49 Steps to Madness - The Crown Hydro Project

Pt 1 - Stone Arch Bridge to Be Shut Down?

Pt 2 - St. Anthony Falls to Be Shut Off 9 Months Per Year?

Pt 3 - Mill Ruins Park to Become and Underwater Attraction?

Pt 4 - Shake, Rattle & Ruins

Pt 5 - State Planning a Hostile Takeover of Minneapolis

Update on Tuesday, May 17, 2011 at 7:41AM by David Tinjum

Please attend the Minneapolis Park Board meeting May 18 at 5:00 PM to show your support for stopping this ill-conceived project.

Contact your elected officials and ask them to drop their support...

Shake, Rattle & Ruins - 49 Steps to Madness PT 4 - The Crown Hydro Project

This is installament 4 of a 5 part series looking at the proposed Crown Hydro project.  The State of Minnesota is attempting to force the Minneapolis Park Board to not only approve this project, but also provide Nationally Historic Parkland to a private developer.

The aftermath of the last ill-conceived effort to harness St. Anthony Falls

The risks to many Nationally Historic Ruins and public assets are real.  Crown Hydro has refused to provide assurances that their project will not damage or destroy them.  Don’t take my word on it, here’s some opinions from those much more knowledgeable than I:

The U.S. Army Corp of Engineers:

“The St. Anthony Falls District and the individual sites within it are among the primary reasons Congress established the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area.  The proposed project would likely have significant adverse impacts on the nationally significant historic resources within the MISS corridor.”

United States Department of the Interior

“. . . is very concerned about potential project impacts on the historical resources of the St. Anthony Falls Historic District and with the flow of water over St Anthony Falls,, the only falls on the entire Mississippi River. . . may seriously impact the recreational use and visual integrity of this area.”

And...

“The proposed project would likely have significant adverse impacts on the nationally significant historic resources. . . “

Minnesota State Archeologist Scott Anfinson

"...the exit tunnel for this facility will adversely impact a significant historic structure, namely the historic tailrace tunnel system. The construction of the turbines could also prevent the restoration of the historic waterpower canal entrance should that be proposed in the future.”

Crown Hydro, LLC

“CHC acknowledges that its project may endanger MPRB owned historic facilities..."

There is nothing inherently bad about building a Hydro Plant in this area.  If done after a thorough assessment and mitigation of the risks, and as part of the long term plan for the area, and for the public good, a Hydro facility could add to, rather than subtract from, the huge investment made in revitalizing this part of the Downtown Minneapolis Riverfront.

Bottom line: The Minneapolis Park Board is scheduled to vote on this project on Wednesday, May 18.  If it passes, Crown Hydro, and the potential destruction of the Birthplace of Minneapolis, could be just a few steps, and a few days away.

Download our flyer to for info on how you can help stop this ill-conceived project…

About This Series
Kim and I walked down to check out the location of the Crown Hydro project located in Mill Ruins Park at St. Anthony Falls.  The proximity to the Stone Arch Bridge and other important historical treasures surprised us, so I thought I'd take a rough measure - I'd "step it off".  It was 49 steps from the center of the proposed Hydroelectric facility to the foot of the Stone Arch Bridge.  I decided to dig a little deeper.  This 5 part series is the result of that effort.

49 Steps to Madness - The Crown Hydro Project

Pt 1 - Stone Arch Bridge to Be Shut Down?

Pt 2 - St. Anthony Falls to Be Shut Off 9 Months Per Year?

Pt 3 - Mill Ruins Park to Become and Underwater Attraction?

Pt 4 - Shake, Rattle & Ruins

Pt 5 - State Planning a Hostile Takeover of Minneapolis

Update on Tuesday, May 17, 2011 at 7:42AM by David Tinjum

Please attend the Minneapolis Park Board meeting May 18 at 5:00 PM to show your support for stopping this ill-conceived project.

Contact your elected officials and ask them to drop their support...

State Planning a Hostile Takeover of Minneapolis, Retains Gordon Gekko - 49 Steps to Madness PT 5 - The Crown Hydro Project

This is final installament of a 5 part series looking at the proposed Crown Hydro project.  The State of Minnesota is attempting to force the Minneapolis Park Board to not only approve this project, but also provide Nationally Historic Parkland to a private developer.

"You got ninety percent of the American public out there with little or no net worth.  I create nothing.  I own.  We make the rules, pal.  The news, war, peace, famine, upheaval, the price per paper clip.  We pick that rabbit out of the hat while everybody sits out there wondering how the hell we did it.  Now you're not naive enough to think we're living in a democracy, are you buddy?  It's the free market."

"The point is, ladies and gentleman, that greed, for lack of a better word, is good.  Greed is right, greed works.   Greed clarifies, cuts through, and captures the essence of the evolutionary spirit."

- Gordon Gekko

Given the multitude of unaswered questions, the unanimous opposition of Federal, State and local experts and the obvious unconstitutionality of the State Legislation driving this project, what motive could there be at the State level? Greed, power, trading favors or some other personal gain?  Partisian politics? I can only speculate as to the possible motivation of State Legislators supporting HF1440 and SF1191.  

More quotes, but from real people...

From Minneapolis City Council Member Lisa Goodman -

“It is simply outrageous that the Legislature would even attempt to override the decisions of local government, in this case the Park Board, and compel both the sale of public land and the planning approvals required for a private developer for their private development”

What’s next, the Legislature passing a bill ordering the city to sell the Minneapolis Farmers Market land for a Vikings Stadium or sell Gold Medal Park for a new high-rise?”

One of four representatives to take his name off the Crown Hydro bill, Rep. Michael Nelson, DFL-Brooklyn Park, said he supports the Crown Hydro project as a clean source of renewable energy but opposes taking away local control.

“The way that this one was written was basically clubbing the city of Minneapolis over the head,” Nelson said.

John S. Gulliver, P.E., Ph. D, Engineering Consultant

How will construction equipment be brought into this crowded area, without disrupting other traffic and activities? What will happen to the public parkways, walkways, etc. during the approximately two years of construction?

Educational value of the Crown Hydroelectric Plant: The Crown Hydroelectric project seems to be developed in isolation from other projects of the district. The interpretive character of the facility is pre-eminent in 2001 support letters from Minneapolis Mayor Sharon Sales Belton, Hennepin County Commissioner Peter McLaughlin, State Senator Lawrence Pogemiller, and State Representative Phyllis Kahn. New letters from representative individuals should be required by MRPB, since the obtained letters of support were based, in part or in whole, on the interpretive character of the Crown Hydroelectric project.

Nobody, But Nobody, Thinks This Is a Good Idea

Don’t take my word on it, here’s some opinions from those much more knowledgeable than I:

Walter F. Mondale

"I write today to urge that you, as a matter of public policy, conclude that the land you own in the most historically sacred area of our great City be simply off-limits to commercial development. Two projects have threatened to desecrate the most sensitive of land you own—namely the condominium project on the old Fuji Ya site, and the again-pending attempt to locate a hydro electric generation plant steps from the Mill Ruins. The latter proposal, no matter what the view of paid consultants, is inherently a taking of the public’s most historic property in this most historic area—the force of the falls over the St. Anthony apron."

"The historical area, of course, is called the St Anthony Falls Historic District. It is not called the Stone Arch Bridge Historic District, nor the Lock and Dam Historic District, nor the River Parkway Historic District, nor even the Mill Ruins Historic District. That which makes it historic, of course, is the Falls itself—the flow of water and its force." 

The U.S. Army Corp of Engineers:

“The St. Anthony Falls District and the individual sites within it are among the primary reasons Congress established the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area.  The proposed project would likely have significant adverse impacts on the nationally significant historic resources within the MISS corridor.”

Jessica Overmohle, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources

"The Draft Plan does not address aesthetic flows over the spillway. The MDNR believes it is imperative that an adequate flow over the spill way be maintained. [It] is one of the only aspects of the St. Anthony Falls area that portrays the significance of the largest falls on the entire Mississippi River. The location in downtown Minneapolis creates a demand for viewing the falls 24 hours a day throughout the year."

United States Department of the Interior

“. . . is very concerned about potential project impacts on the historical resources of the St. Anthony Falls Historic District and with the flow of water over St Anthony Falls,, the only falls on the entire Mississippi River. . . may seriously impact the recreational use and visual integrity of this area.”

And...

“The proposed project would likely have significant adverse impacts on the nationally significant historic resources. . . “

Minnesota State Archeologist Scott Anfinson

"...the exit tunnel for this facility will adversely impact a significant historic structure, namely the historic tailrace tunnel system. The construction of the turbines could also prevent the restoration of the historic waterpower canal entrance should that be proposed in the future.”

Minneapolis City Attorney

“[Crown could] consume water to the point of elimination of  flow of St Anthony Falls without Park Board consent, regardless  of any contrary requirement in Park Board resolutions.”

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) License Article 404

“During low flows in July and August, the project will operate with up to 500 cfs during the daylight hours even if it dries up the falls . . . “

Crown Hydro, LLC

“CHC acknowledges that its project may endanger MPRB owned historic facilities..."

National Trust for Historic Preservation (May 2011)

The National Trust for Historic Preservation is deeply concerned to learn about the proposal of S.F. 1191, which requires the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) to approve a lease agreement for a hydroelectric facility on their property no later than May 31, 2011. It is our opinion that this legislation will only harm Minnesota’s natural resources, and it could have unintended and very negative consequences on effective local government regulatory processes.

   

The Crown Hydro hydroelectric project is obviously the intended beneficiary of this legislation, since this project’s request for use of Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (“Park Board”) property in the St. Anthony Falls Historic District was denied. Repeated challenges to this decision have only reinforced the appropriateness of the Park Board’s decisions to deny a permit for a new hydroelectric facility on Park Board land in a highly-visible and sensitive area of the riverfront that contains many natural and historic resources.

   

While we strongly support renewable energy production through alternative sources such as wind, geothermal, and hydroelectric power, we do not support the destruction of our state’s limited and nonrenewable cultural resources for the creation of renewable energy. Although this project has been many years in development, we have yet to see the full plans for the Crown Hydro project or comprehensive evaluation of the impact it will have on the Mill Ruins area.  It is clear that this project requires significant environmental review before it can move forward, so as not to destroy one nonrenewable resource for the benefit of renewable energy generation, which could feasibly be located elsewhere.

  

We also feel strongly that Minnesota’s natural resources should be utilized in ways that are effective and sustainable. Based upon an analysis of the project by engineer John Gulliver (attached), the proposed location for the Crown Hydro project is very problematic. His assessment concludes that “energy generation projections of Crown Hydro LLC are optimistic and the risks are ignored.” In addition, the flow of water over the St. Anthony Falls will be significantly reduced by the operation of the Crown Hydro project. This will eliminate the defining feature of the St. Anthony Falls Historic District and compromise one of Minneapolis’ most prominent viewsheds.

  

Most importantly, the proposed legislation will deliberately subvert the regulatory review processes established to ensure a thorough and transparent public process based on established criteria. Approving S.F. 1191 would greatly diminish the ability of local government and state agencies to assess the appropriateness of proposed projects on property that has been set aside for public use and benefit.

 

For all of these reasons, we respectfully request that you do not support S.F. 1191.

Christina Morris      

Minnesota Program Officer   

National Trust for Historic Preservation  

 

How Can This NOT Be Unconstitutional?

Could it be anymore unambigous? 

From Article XII of the Constitution of the State of Minnesota:

"The legislature shall pass no local or special law...granting to any private corporation, association, or individual any special or exclusive privilege, immunity or franchise whatever..."

Link to Article XII...

From the Minnesota State Senate:

"Short Description: Hydroelectric facility (Crown Hydro) municipal approval requirement exemption, federal regulation compliance, and Minneapolis park and recreation board approval"

This legislation is intended for the sole benefit of Crown Hydro, LLC in direct conflict with the Constitution of the State of Minnesota.

Download our flyer to for info on how you can help stop this ill-conceived project…

About This Series
Kim and I walked down to check out the location of the Crown Hydro project located in Mill Ruins Park at St. Anthony Falls.  The proximity to the Stone Arch Bridge and other important historical treasures surprised us, so I thought I'd take a rough measure - I'd "step it off".  It was 49 steps from the center of the proposed Hydroelectric facility to the foot of the Stone Arch Bridge.  I decided to dig a little deeper.  This 5 part series is the result of that effort.

49 Steps to Madness - The Crown Hydro Project

Pt 1 - Stone Arch Bridge to Be Shut Down?

Pt 2 - St. Anthony Falls to Be Shut Off 9 Months Per Year?

Pt 3 - Mill Ruins Park to Become and Underwater Attraction?

Pt 4 - Shake, Rattle & Ruins

Pt 5 - State Planning a Hostile Takeover of Minneapolis

Update on Tuesday, May 17, 2011 at 7:40AM by David Tinjum

Please attend the Minneapolis Park Board meeting May 18 at 5:00 PM to show your support for stopping this ill-conceived project.

Contact your elected officials and ask them to drop their support...

The Fit Tourist

The mission of The Fit Tourist is to introduce tourists to our fabulous trail systems while offering a safe, healthy and memorable ride.   However, you don't literally have to be a tourist to take advantage of this service.  For example, people new to our neighborhood might want to take the "Downtown Extravaganza" ride to get a lay of the land before venturing out on a Nice Ride or even their own bike.

Check out their website for route details, ride times, registration info, what to expect, etc. 

Another Great Outing at Todays Mill City Farmers Market

A little rain wasn't about to stop us from filling our bag with goodies at the Mill City Farmers Market this morning!

 

 

Pillsbury A Mill on 2011 Preservation Alliance of Minnesota Most Endangered Historic Places List

The Preservation Alliance of Minnesota(PMA) announced its 2011 10 Most Endangered Historic Places List at the May 12 (Anti) Wrecking Ball event at the Soap Factory.    The Pillbury A Mill was included in this years list.

Since 1995, the Preservation Alliance of Minnesota has compiled an annual list of the state’s threatened historic buildings, sites, and structures. While the endangering circumstances vary, PAM’s response remains the same—to shine a spotlight on these important places, to equip local advocates to rally for preservation, and to focus public attention on favorable outcomes that can be achieved through a preservation approach.

About two-thirds of the 150 sites listed by the alliance have been saved.

Breaking News - Crown Hydro LLC Out, Park Board to Seek New Joint Venture Partner - Any Future Project to Follow Standard Approval Process - Mill City Times Exclusive

Just released by the Minneapolis Park Board.   Seems Crown Hydro is going to be out of the picture, and all normal approval processes, including the Citizens Advisory Committee will be followed.

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At the May 4th 2011 Board meeting the Park Commissioners decided to move consideration of the Letter of Intent to the Board’s May 18th meeting to allow for more thorough review of the terms. Since then, ongoing discussions have led to modifying the approach to the Letter of Intent. The Letter of Intent now contemplates a joint venture agreement with an entity other than Crown. As a joint venture partner, the Park Board would hold a minority interest in the hydro electric facility and retain more control over its operations.

The Letter of Intent with Crown is to provide any entity considering purchasing Crown’s interests confidence that a joint venture arrangement is workable with the Park Board. Consequently, the considerations that existed previously with the Letter of Intent have now evolved into new considerations based on the new character of a potential joint venture agreement.

 

If the Board approves the Letter of Intent for a joint venture, and if an entity decides to purchase Crown’s interest including its FERC license, the Park Board may then negotiate ownership arrangements with that potential joint venture partner that secures valuable credits and funding for the joint venture that were available to Crown if it were the owner. These arrangements will require the Park Board to hold interests in at least two corporate entities to meet the criteria necessary to maintain funding for the project.

As a partner, the project becomes a Park Board development, and as such, would be part of a Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) process, and the Park Board would also be closely involved with all other agency approvals. The Letter of Intent for a joint venture follows the same structure and form as the prior Letter of Intent that was before the 

Board. 

View the Memorandum and Letter of Intent...

Update on Friday, May 13, 2011 at 7:22PM by David Tinjum

After further investigation, major concerns remain. Can the Park Board properly evaluate a joint venture to build a power plant on the Mississippi River, in a National Historic Park, in 5 days? Can't we take 2 weeks more to give it due consideration?

Update on Tuesday, May 17, 2011 at 7:38AM by David Tinjum

Please attend the Minneapolis Park Board meeting May 18 at 5:00 PM to show your support for stopping this ill-conceived project.

Contact your elected officials and ask them to drop their support...

This Weekend in Mill City / May 13 - May 15

Events this weekend in and around the Historic Mill District of Minneapolis and across the Stone Arch Bridge in Old St. Anthony.

Friday, May 13

Tagore’s Treasures at The Loft (Reservations Required)

Spring Honors Recitals at MacPhail Center for Music

Live Music at the Aster Cafe

Saturday, May 14

Mill City Farmers Market

"Saturday Sampling" at Mill City Market Grocery and Deli

Tagore’s Treasures at The Loft (Reservations Required)

Washburn A Mill Tour at Mill City Museum

Discover Saturday: Feather Your Nest With Reading at Central Library

Live Music at the Aster Cafe

Sunday, May 15

Dandelion Day at the Ard Godfrey House

Seeing the River Exhibit Closes at Mill City Museum

American As Curry Pie at Central Library

Live Music at the Aster Cafe

Weekend Brunch

Saturday & Sunday

Brunch at Spoonriver
750 South 2nd St (at Chicago Ave S)
Minneapolis, MN 55401
612-436-2236

Reservations recommended

10:00am - 2:00pm

See the menu...

Saturday & Sunday

Brunch at the Aster Cafe
St. Anthony Main
125 SE Main Street
Minneapolis, MN 55414
612-379-3138

Until 2pm.

See the menu...

Sunday

Brunch at Spill the Wine
1101 Washington Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55415
612-339-3388

brunch buffet 10am- 2pm Sunday
$12/person (kids 3 and under eat free, 4-12 years are 1/2 price!)

includes: eggs, bacon, french toast, hash browns, fresh salad and fruit, pastries, build your own omlette bar and more...

featuring absolut bloody bar for $5.

also offering fair trade coffee and full bar.

Washington Avenue Closes This Weekend (East Bank and Stadium Village Area)

In case you have plans to visit the East Bank / Stadium Village areas this weekend (or use an MTC route that passes through this area) please read the following Light Rail construction update:

A general overview of construction for the East Bank and Stadium Village is now available via this link. This four page document is an outline only created to give those visiting the area a general idea of how to get to Stadium Village and East Bank and travel within the area. Weekly construction updates will continue to be sent out every Friday with details on closures and detours.
 
Please pass this information along to ensure people are prepared for the closure of Washington Avenue from Pleasant Street to Oak Street. This major road closure will occur this weekend and affect bus routes starting on Saturday.

Saturday, May 14th
Metro Transit bus detours begin for East Bank and West Bank. Bus stops on Washington Avenue are relocated to 4th Street or University Avenue for construction. Buses will return to Washington Avenue once the majority of construction is complete in 2-3 years. Watch for bus stop improvements at these locations; University & Pleasant, University & 17th, University & 19th, 4th & 17th, and Washington & 19th. For full information on bus stop changes and bus detours, go to www.metrotransit.org/construction or call the Transit Information Center at (612) 373-3333 for the most current information.

12:00 AM Monday, May 16th
I-35W Ramp: Westbound 3rd Street to south I-35W, east HWY 55, west I-94 closes.
Between Downtown Minneapolis and East Bank of Campus: Washington Avenue/3rd & 4th Street closes.
West Bank: North Cedar Avenue ramps closing, all traffic detoured to south ramps.
East Bank: Washington Avenue from Pleasant Street to Oak Street closes.
University of Minnesota Campus Connector and Campus Circulato Bus detours begin; no stops on Washington.

Breaking News - National Trust for Historic Preservation Comes Out Against Crown Hydro, Issues Statement in Opposition to S.F. 1191 - Mill City Times Exclusive

Just in, The National Trust for Historic Preservation has taken a formal position opposing the Crown Hydro project and asked key members of the Minnesota State Legislature to drop their support of the bills moving through both houses of State government.

In a statement issued within the last hour, Christina Morris, Minnesota Program Officer for the National Trust for Historic Preservation cites several fundemental flaws with the proposed project, and more importantly, the manner in which the developers of the project have tried to circumvent safegaurds for the protection of our cultural heritage.

The statement comes as the Park Board is negotiating under duress the very legislation being opposed.

The Park Board meets to vote on this matter on Wednesday, May 18 at 5:00 PM at Minneapolis Park Board headquarters located at 2117 W. Broadway.  The public is encouraged to attend this pivotal meeting.

View the entire statement... 

Update on Tuesday, May 17, 2011 at 7:38AM by David Tinjum

Please attend the Minneapolis Park Board meeting May 18 at 5:00 PM to show your support for stopping this ill-conceived project.

Contact your elected officials and ask them to drop their support...

Here's Your Chance to Win Sanctuary's Spring Celebration Package!

Sanctuary the restaurant, 903 Washington Avenue South, is currently offering a great opportunity to win a dinner, lodging and a show package for Friday, May 20.  Click here for details on how to win.

This Spring Celebration package includes dinner for two at Sanctuary ($80 gift card), two tickets to Avenue Q at the Mixed Blood Theater, one night stay at the Holiday Inn Metrodome and a one-year subscription to Exploring TOSCA.

In addition to their website, your can follow Sanctuary on Twitter and Facebook.

35W Bridge Memorial Construction Update [Video]

The 35W Bridge Memorial is under construction across West River Parkway from Gold Medal Park in the Mill District of Minneapolis.  Shot this morning.

MacPhail Center for Music Announces 2011 Summer Camp Schedule

MacPhail Center for Music has 46 summer camp offerings for students 3 years to adult.  These camps are held at their three locations, as well as at parks, museums and even the Minnesota Zoo.    

Early Childhood Music classes like "Pop, Sizzle, Bang" are a great way to discover the fun of music. MacPhail's camps for school aged kids - from Allegro Orchestra Camp to Rock Week, provide high-quality experiences to deepen musical skills over the summer. Unique ensemble opportunities are available in through piano camps, jazz camp and Suzuki Institute for piano, flute and guitar. 

MacPhail's chamber music camps for adults are a fun, low-key, way to make music and socialize with others with similar musical interests.

Click here for a full list of summer camps.

501SP1N Featured on National RealRyder Website

Dawn Doll, founder of 501SP1N, and her client were recently featured on RealRyder.com.  501SP1N is located at 501 Washington Avenue South, and shares space with 501F1T.

From now until May 31, 501SP1N is offering a Summer Special (June 1 to August 31) of Unlimited Cycling for only $125. This special is for RealRyder and Krankcycle classes only. Class Schedule.

Click here to request additional info.