[Mpls] Can we get our $35 back?

[bfclegg at visi.com]

When folks trying to save Grove Street on Nicollet Island wanted to gather
signatures of support at the Stonearch Art Festival, we asked the Park Staff if
we needed a permit.  They said yes, although they couldn't figure out what form
to use or what box to check - we suggested a new box for "protected first
amendment activites" - staff was not amused.  The neighbor who finally got the
permit paid $35, posted a $150 "damage deposit" and even had to have her
homeowner's insurance add a rider naming the Park Board as an additional
insured!  But - she did it, and gathered hundreds of signatures (Nicollet
Island is still there, normal wear and tear excepted, - so she should get the
damage deposit back).  Is the Park Board going to refund the fee?

Interestingly, Park Staff has confirmed, pursuant to a Data Practices Act
request, that when DeLaSalle held a rally (complete with a band) on Park
property in front of Park Board headquarters prior to the last Park Board
meeting for the purpose of lobbying FOR the closure of Grove Street, no permit
was pulled and no citations were issued.  Hmmm...

Barry Clegg
Nicollet Island