Re: [Mpls] PRAC hits the big time

2001-11-13 Thread Constance Nompelis 

Dave Harstad said:

3.  Contrary to what the PRAC says, one cannot
separate bad behavior from bad buildings.  It’s
sociology 101.  The built environment influences
human behavior.  Derelict buildings encourage derelict
behavior.  Certainly stopping criminal behavior is
more complicated than fixing broken windows, but
it’s an important piece of the puzzle.  

CN Responds:

If this were true, it would be extremely sad.  It
seems that Mr. Harstad contends that people are
ultimately not responsible for their own actions.

As far as the assumption that a bad building cannot
change, I'd say that my home is an example of the
opposite.  When I bought it, nearly every window and
door was broken, there were pigeons inside to seek
refuge from the snow, and absolutely every appliance
was destroyed.  I'll save you the details of faulty
plumbing, electricity and roofing which I have since
remedied.  

Now, my next-door neighbor and I have a friendly
competition about whose house/yard is more pleasing to
the eye.  

An aside: as I write this, the duplex at 2301 16th (3
doors down from me) is in the final stages of
demolition.  I think it's very sad - if I could have
afforded to rehab it, I would have done so gladly.

Connie Nompelis
Ward 6 - Ventura Village

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RE: [Mpls] PRAC hits the big time

2001-11-13 Thread Russell W Peterson 

I am absolutely convinced that respectable buildings help
promote self-respect - a phrase I coined trying to get
builders and designers to pay more attention to their work
product in affordable housing projects.  That doesn't mean
that one isn't responsible for their own behavior, but the
environment does have an impact on us both psychologically
and sociologically.  Take away the sun for a few weeks and
see how you feel.

Russell W. Peterson
Saint Michael

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