[UrbanDude]

What many people don't know if that this development at this site has been in play since the CanadInn proposal died. The secrecy surrounding the whole process is really lacking.

The owners of the BallPark, Mr. Katz, will profit if this development proceeds. The real estate value of the Ball Park will increase because of the improvements to the property (surface parking lot) next door. There will also be more foot / car traffic as a result, which will increase sales at the Ball Park. So there is a conflict of interest. Mr. Katz will gain financially if this development proceeds. This is fine. But he should be excused from the decision making.

The lack of details is a bit unnerving.

The fact that there is no area development plan, nor any predetermined design guidelines for the area tells me City Hall places no value in planning. The land use zoning plan is still ancient. So as a result, when development does come forward, there is a constant battle between the public and developers. So this means there is no greater thinking that takes place in truly understanding to create an exciting downtown, for Winnipeggers.

We have seen this approach for Main Street. Look at it now.

There is no trust in the process.