Letter: Community wins in council vote

To the Editor:

Too often the news we hear focuses on the lack of trust people have in their governing institutions. And often there’s ample justification for the suspicion and cynicism we feel. That should not be the case here in Red Wing today.

The events around the city’s plan to purchase land at Mount Carmel — and the council’s decision to back away from that purchase — reassure us that the system can work.

Last night’s decision should be seen as a big win for our community and not a win for any one group.

The community won because all groups involved stepped up and met their obligations.

City staff generously provided the information needed for careful decision-making. Two of the city’s commissions researched and reviewed the proposal conscientiously and in ways consistent with their roles. Citizens, especially from the Mount Carmel neighborhood, brought their concerns in a thoughtful and courteous way, pulling together to offer workable alternatives. And the council and Mike Schultz had the wisdom and courage to listen and reconsider their plan.

The council opened the door to a larger conversation about biosolids disposal and offered us the opportunity to find solutions that are sustainable ecologically, economically and socially.

The civil and fruitful engagement of all its stakeholders in the process of government - demonstrated here - is vital to a community’s sustainability. Congratulations on a big win.

Marilyn Meinke

Red Wing

Tags: red wing city council, opinion, letter