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Minneapolis residents concerned about the Southwest light rail line are hiring lawyers as the city nears a vote on the controversial project.


Mayor Betsy Hodges has received at least two letters this week from lawyers representing groups based in the city's Kenwood neighborhood.


One came from a condominium association concerned its buildings could be damaged by light rail construction. The group had previously supported the proposal to bury the trains in shallow tunnels, but now it wants more information.


Lawyers for another group, calling itself the Lakes and Parks Alliance of Minneapolis have also sent a letter. They argue the Metropolitan Council is legally required to do additional environmental review before the city votes.


The Met Council disputes that interpretation. And it pledged to work with the condo owners to address their concerns.


The council and the city are negotiating in private with the help of a mediator. They face a July 14 deadline.


Last week, retired U.S. Rep. Martin Sabo wants Minneapolis to reject the proposed light rail line, warning it will do little to help the city.


A Democrat who represented Minneapolis in Congress for almost three decades, Sabo said he decided to speak out about the project and its $1.7 billion cost after hearing some of the recent arguments made by proponents of the line, including how it would help people on Minneapolis' north side.

Business and Economic News

Curtis Gilbert

Author

Mayor Betsy Hodges has received at least two letters this week from lawyers representing groups based in the city's Kenwood neighborhood. One came from a condominium association concerned its buildings could be damaged by light rail construction. Another argues the Metropolitan Council is legally required to do an additional environmental review.

Twin Cities light rail foes hire lawyers ahead of key vote

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