Posted 5/9/01 She thinks some common sense is needed To the editor: My oh my ñ one of our local developers, Jack Kopp, put into words what North Branch Citizens For a Better City have been saying all along. The developers donít care what the citizens of North Branch have to say about anything. Thatís why they are on the Conservation Subcommittee. At the Councilís work session last week, Mr. Kopp said he hoped the new Council wouldnít ìbuckle under to those groups of citizens that have special interests.î Is that the pot calling the kettle black? He mentioned the group that didnít want the soccer field in their backyards and also the citizens that stalled the Fernwood Development on the west side of I-35. His comments showed just how much he cares about this community and what his priorities are. I wish the Planning Commission and Council would send him a message about his building styles. Every building looks like a cookie cut out. All the same. Letís find a new architect with vision, if you care about this community. When citizens stick together and voice concerns, it is the Councils job to listen. The decisions they make are supposed to be best for all its citizens, not just the developers. North Branch has lost its small town charm and is now becoming a suburb of the Twin Cities. Wake up and smell the roses ñ while they last. Comments by developers and some council members are that the citizens are happy with this growth. Please, council, donít use Smart Growth in your vocabulary. The blast that North Branchers are going to get in the next couple of years will come back to haunt you. Do I see a change in our new council? The two favorite words are ìayeî and ìspend.î No change. I do appreciate one member using her head. Next election, please, letís have more women running. Some common sense is needed. Barbara Burrington North Branch Citizens For a Better City ©Post Review