[Mpls] 137 Minneapolis cops to lose jobs through 2008

[Victoria Heller]

Terrell Brown writes:  "I think Minneapolis voters have paid attention to
what is referred to as "the cash hemorrhage being perpetuated downtown at
City Hall"

Vicky Heller replies:  I don't think they are paying attention, and I don't
think any journalists are covering the subject.

Between 2001 and 2002, the City's spending INCREASED by $62 million.
Between 2001 and 2002, Tax collections DROPPED by $11 million.
Between 2001 and 2002, LGA subsidies to Minneapolis INCREASED by $11
million.

The impossible debt load in Minneapolis began with the "Common Project"
fiasco - when the City decided to set aside $400 million to fund NRP -
rather than pay off existing debts.  Coincidentally, it was also when the
City Council became the MCDA Commissioners.

Since that time, the debts have grown exponentially and the money handed out
by the MCDA has been purely political.

The severe financial trouble in the City can be easily traced.  The CAFR
reports through 2002 are available on the City's website.

Vicky Heller
North Oaks and Cedar-Riverside