From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:
Nic Puzak
Reich, Kevin A.
Fw: RE: van cleve nrp art history...
Wednesday, October 12, 2016 5:30:12 PM
image001.png
fyi.
-----Forwarded Message----From: "Whitehurst, Jack C"
Sent: Oct 12, 2016 12:14 PM
To: Nic Puzak
Subject: RE: van cleve nrp art history...
Nic,
I left you a voicemail about an hour ago. Bob Cooper and I have looked at old, potentially
relevant SE Como contracts with the Park Board but cannot find any specific evidence of
NRP funding either in the contract scope of services or actual billing from the Park Board. We suggest contacting Mary Altman, the City’s longtime Public Arts Coordinator (612-6733006) to see if see has any recollections or files. It’s nearly certain she would have been
involved in the project.
Also, a colleague was hoping to check with Wendy or Joan Menken to see if SE Como
Improvement Association would have supported the project with NRP funds but, sadly, they
are grieving the loss of their father/husband who died last week.
Sorry for not much info.
Jack
Jack Whitehurst
Neighborhood Specialist | City of Minneapolis | Neighborhood and Community Relations
425 Crown Roller Mill | 105 Fifth Avenue South | Minneapolis, MN 55401
612.673.5143 | [email protected] | www.minneapolismn.gov
The City of Minneapolis invites and encourages participation by every resident to each program, service
and event within our city. Should you require an accommodation in order for you to fully participate, or
should you require this document in an alternative format, please let us know by contacting 612-6733737.
From: Nic Puzak [mailto:[email protected]]
Sent: Wednesday, October 12, 2016 11:56 AM
To: Whitehurst, Jack C
Subject: van cleve nrp art history...
Good morning...
Tried to call...
any records accessible regarding the expendatures as related to the "ACCORD" art at Van
Cleve Park on behalf of the SE Como neighborhood's efforts ?
It was commissioned, per the plaque at the site, in 1998. But funds may have been allocated
sooner ?
Thanks,
Nic
I've a pending appeal to Z & P Comm. tomorrow am regarding over building of the parcel
across the street by CPM ... a massive shoe-box piece of S&^* project that would dwarf this
artistic effort and wall off the first ward from the park if the variances of setbacks are granted.
Thanks again.
From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:
natalie reciputi
katie fournier; cody olson
Reich, Kevin A.; Gordon, Cam A.
Fw: Nic Puzak
Wednesday, October 12, 2016 5:12:14 PM
I don't know if this got sent the first time---Natalie
----- Forwarded Message -----
Hi all--Please note also that the proposed building at 1501 conforms to Blueprint
recommendations for development along Como Ave. Community Corridor. While
Blueprint recommendations show a slight preference for mixed use (IE--commercial
on the ground floor & dwelling units above) buildings, both mixed use AND completely
residential are both consistent with the plan's recommendations.
I can understand if Mr. Puzak does not like the design or purpose of the building or
the fact that variances were needed to accomplish the building. But I find this sort of
opposition to new development very counter productive for future development
possibilities in our neighborhood. We need to attract developers who are willing to
work within the land use recommendations as laid out in the Blueprint. We certainly
need to work with residents and developers, but objecting to a building on the basis
of: shoulda," "woulda," " coulda" is not going to be productive.
The question is: is this proposed development BETTER that what is currently there?
What is the likelihood of an even better plan coming along in the near future?
Natalie
From: Katie and Rick FOURNIER <[email protected]>
To: Cody Olson <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 10, 2016 11:57 AM
Subject: Nic Puzak
Hi, Cody and Livability Committee
People should know that Nic Puzak is not a resident in this neighborhood. He owns the
rental building on the north side of 1501 Como, as well as other rentals (mostly apartment
buildings, I believe). This doesn't mean that his insistence on a retail presence in the
development at 1501 Como is a bad idea. It's probably a desirable idea.
Nic grew up in Prospect Park. His father built or bought many of the buildings that Nic now
owns. Nic no longer lives in Prospect Park, but pays close attention to what's going on there
and in all of SE Mpls. (He told me last spring where he now lives. I regret that I can't
remember, but it's not in SE Mpls.) You'll see that Nic mentions a phone conversation with CPM properties. They seem to be
involved in the ownership of this proposed building at 1501 Como. Katie
From: Cody Olson <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 10, 2016 11:17 AM
Subject: Fwd: Fw: RE: Fw:
Hi Livability Committee! I just wanted to forward on this email from a resident regarding the 1501 property and his
contact with the councilmembers. Thanks! ---------- Forwarded message ---------From: Nic Puzak <[email protected]>
Date: Sat, Oct 8, 2016 at 10:24 AM
Subject: Fw: RE: Fw:
To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>
fyi...
perhaps some other neighbors will be interested in this appeal ? Please spread the word, having folks
contact CM Reich and Gordon regarding opposition to this under-parked monster.
my phone is 612-237-6941
thank you,
Nic Puzak
-----Forwarded Message----- From: Nic Puzak Sent: Oct 4, 2016 11:01 AM To: "[email protected]" Cc: "barbara.johnson@minnepolismn. gov" , "Lisa.Goodman@minneapolismn. gov" Subject: Good morning:
I write regarding the 1501 SE Como development proposal and appeal.
Thank you for having a CPM representative telephone. A gentleman, Mr. Oberpriller (?) phoned this
past Friday. However, his insistence that I was not entitled to appeal " at the last minute " was
disappointing. Furthermore, while he did inquire as to the basis of my objection to his ideas, his
argumentative nature and repeated mention of expenditures to date left no room for discussion.
Moreover his stating that he must now "take this opposition personally " seems a thinly veiled threat of
unknown tactic. Perhaps he has underestimated risk in real estate development involving a change of
use of the subject property ?
Meanwhile, a much more positive note, Chad Kraft called concerned neighbor(s), as well as email me
willing to discuss the project.
Apparently Chad has an equity stake but of unknown scale. If and when he follows up on our
responses, I'll keep you informed of the timing and nature of the communications.
My efforts in this fledging appeal have I think born some fruit as to what should actually be developed
at this intersection. I've photographed some other MPRB-fronting retail businesses, which I have
learned is in fact quite rare in Minneapolis. Despite spending my career in the brokerage and appraisal
fields, I've gained a significant appreciation for how rare this site may truly become to be known. And,
except for Delmonico's NE site, how much other commercial park frontages even exists on the
Eastside ? In the short period available prior to our appeal hearing, can you envision any such parcels
anywhere that are unsuccessful? Please consider this scarcity of opportunity for our City's
development " fabric" . 1501 Como could become a very vibrant transit hub with expanded and
properly nurtured retail. So far I have identified a wide range of demographics served by Chicago
Crossings (Franklin at Chicago), The Longfellow Grill (complete with public art!), and Currans Family
Restaurant (Nicollet & 40th S.) where their decades of success is evident despite zero outdoor seating
on King Park. The retail fronting Loring Park is my next destination to view and photograph their
operations.
If you think of it, would you please call/text 612.237.6941 with other ideas of locations ?
Thank you for your consideration,
Nic Puzak
-----Forwarded Message----From: Nic Puzak
Sent: Oct 6, 2016 8:39 AM
To: "Reich,Kevin A."
Cc: "[email protected] " , "[email protected]"
Subject: RE: Fw:
Thank you.
Understood.
We are continuing to gather public-oriented information. Neighbors are gathering signatures. The vision includes 1501 as a transit hub, the first strategic stop north of the main East
Bank campus. The SW exposure to Van Cleve is perfect for outdoor seating. More, not less
retail with exterior flair is the highest and best use. Served by frequently scheduled & even
late night double-length MTC #3 busses running between the University campuses, this parcel
could and should host a beehive of activity. Given the chance, my thirty-five years working in
SE real estate leads me to believe it will flourish by denying the variances as requested by
CPM.
How may MTC lines run regularly, double-length with such extended hours as well as
frequency? Similarly, this location represents the end point of the very successful pedestrian
lighting project on 15th Ave. SE running north-south between Como and University Avenues.
While ignored in the Planning staff report, this small " jog " as an asymmetrical intersection is
very unique to our City.
Our mutual efforts will be presented appropriate to the appeal.
We will respectfully request your support.
Nic Puzak
--
Cody Olson
Interim Executive Director
South East Como Improvement Association
Como Green Village
1170 15th Avenue, Ste 302
Minneapolis, MN 55414
(612) 676-1731
Cell: 414-688-2600
From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:
natalie reciputi
Katie and Rick FOURNIER; Cody Olson
Reich, Kevin A.; Gordon, Cam A.; Andrea Seebach; Emilie Quast; Joan Menken; Joe Russell; Joyce Portner;
Kathy Hoagland; katie fournier; Lila Smith; Lorraine Blake; Lucy Moody; Mike Rivard; Millie Caspersen; Nancy
Tickner; pearl; Sara Hoppe; Stefan Songstad; Steve & Linnea Peterson; Tim Hopkins; Todd Reubold; Toni
Pendergrast; Vivian Johnson; Wayne& Ginny Potratz
Re: Nic Puzak
Wednesday, October 12, 2016 4:56:57 PM
Hi all--Please note also that the proposed building at 1501 conforms to Blueprint
recommendations for development along Como Ave. Community Corridor. While
Blueprint recommendations show a slight preference for mixed use (IE--commercial
on the ground floor & dwelling units above) buildings, both mixed use AND completely
residential are both consistent with the plan's recommendations.
I can understand if Mr. Puzak does not like the design or purpose of the building or
the fact that variances were needed to accomplish the building. But I find this sort of
opposition to new development very counter productive for future development
possibilities in our neighborhood. We need to attract developers who are willing to
work within the land use recommendations as laid out in the Blueprint. We certainly
need to work with residents and developers, but objecting to a building on the basis
of: shoulda," "woulda," " coulda" is not going to be productive.
The question is: is this proposed development BETTER that what is currently there?
What is the likelihood of an even better plan coming along in the near future?
Natalie
From: Katie and Rick FOURNIER <[email protected]>
To: Cody Olson <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 10, 2016 11:57 AM
Subject: Nic Puzak
Hi, Cody and Livability Committee
People should know that Nic Puzak is not a resident in this neighborhood. He owns the
rental building on the north side of 1501 Como, as well as other rentals (mostly apartment
buildings, I believe). This doesn't mean that his insistence on a retail presence in the
development at 1501 Como is a bad idea. It's probably a desirable idea.
Nic grew up in Prospect Park. His father built or bought many of the buildings that Nic now
owns. Nic no longer lives in Prospect Park, but pays close attention to what's going on there
and in all of SE Mpls. (He told me last spring where he now lives. I regret that I can't
remember, but it's not in SE Mpls.) You'll see that Nic mentions a phone conversation with CPM properties. They seem to be
involved in the ownership of this proposed building at 1501 Como. Katie
From: Cody Olson <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 10, 2016 11:17 AM
Subject: Fwd: Fw: RE: Fw:
Hi Livability Committee! I just wanted to forward on this email from a resident regarding the 1501 property and his
contact with the councilmembers. Thanks! ---------- Forwarded message ---------From: Nic Puzak <[email protected]>
Date: Sat, Oct 8, 2016 at 10:24 AM
Subject: Fw: RE: Fw:
To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>
fyi...
perhaps some other neighbors will be interested in this appeal ? Please spread the word, having folks
contact CM Reich and Gordon regarding opposition to this under-parked monster.
my phone is 612-237-6941
thank you,
Nic Puzak
-----Forwarded Message----- From: Nic Puzak Sent: Oct 4, 2016 11:01 AM To: "[email protected]" Cc: "barbara.johnson@minnepolismn. gov" , "Lisa.Goodman@minneapolismn. gov" Subject: Good morning:
I write regarding the 1501 SE Como development proposal and appeal.
Thank you for having a CPM representative telephone. A gentleman, Mr. Oberpriller (?) phoned this
past Friday. However, his insistence that I was not entitled to appeal " at the last minute " was
disappointing. Furthermore, while he did inquire as to the basis of my objection to his ideas, his
argumentative nature and repeated mention of expenditures to date left no room for discussion.
Moreover his stating that he must now "take this opposition personally " seems a thinly veiled threat of
unknown tactic. Perhaps he has underestimated risk in real estate development involving a change of
use of the subject property ?
Meanwhile, a much more positive note, Chad Kraft called concerned neighbor(s), as well as email me
willing to discuss the project.
Apparently Chad has an equity stake but of unknown scale. If and when he follows up on our
responses, I'll keep you informed of the timing and nature of the communications.
My efforts in this fledging appeal have I think born some fruit as to what should actually be developed
at this intersection. I've photographed some other MPRB-fronting retail businesses, which I have
learned is in fact quite rare in Minneapolis. Despite spending my career in the brokerage and appraisal
fields, I've gained a significant appreciation for how rare this site may truly become to be known. And,
except for Delmonico's NE site, how much other commercial park frontages even exists on the
Eastside ? In the short period available prior to our appeal hearing, can you envision any such parcels
anywhere that are unsuccessful? Please consider this scarcity of opportunity for our City's
development " fabric" . 1501 Como could become a very vibrant transit hub with expanded and
properly nurtured retail. So far I have identified a wide range of demographics served by Chicago
Crossings (Franklin at Chicago), The Longfellow Grill (complete with public art!), and Currans Family
Restaurant (Nicollet & 40th S.) where their decades of success is evident despite zero outdoor seating
on King Park. The retail fronting Loring Park is my next destination to view and photograph their
operations.
If you think of it, would you please call/text 612.237.6941 with other ideas of locations ?
Thank you for your consideration,
Nic Puzak
-----Forwarded Message----From: Nic Puzak
Sent: Oct 6, 2016 8:39 AM
To: "Reich,Kevin A."
Cc: "[email protected] " , "[email protected]"
Subject: RE: Fw:
Thank you.
Understood.
We are continuing to gather public-oriented information. Neighbors are gathering signatures. The vision includes 1501 as a transit hub, the first strategic stop north of the main East
Bank campus. The SW exposure to Van Cleve is perfect for outdoor seating. More, not less
retail with exterior flair is the highest and best use. Served by frequently scheduled & even
late night double-length MTC #3 busses running between the University campuses, this parcel
could and should host a beehive of activity. Given the chance, my thirty-five years working in
SE real estate leads me to believe it will flourish by denying the variances as requested by
CPM.
How may MTC lines run regularly, double-length with such extended hours as well as
frequency? Similarly, this location represents the end point of the very successful pedestrian
lighting project on 15th Ave. SE running north-south between Como and University Avenues.
While ignored in the Planning staff report, this small " jog " as an asymmetrical intersection is
very unique to our City.
Our mutual efforts will be presented appropriate to the appeal.
We will respectfully request your support.
Nic Puzak
--
Cody Olson
Interim Executive Director
South East Como Improvement Association
Como Green Village
1170 15th Avenue, Ste 302
Minneapolis, MN 55414
(612) 676-1731
Cell: 414-688-2600
From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:
Emilie Quast
natalie reciputi
Katie and Rick FOURNIER; Cody Olson; Reich, Kevin A.; Gordon, Cam A.; Andrea Seebach; Emilie Quast; Joan
Menken; Joe Russell; Joyce Portner; Kathy Hoagland; Lila Smith; Lorraine Blake; Lucy Moody; Mike Rivard;
Millie Caspersen; Nancy Tickner; pearl; Sara Hoppe; Stefan Songstad; Steve & Linnea Peterson; Tim Hopkins;
Todd Reubold; Toni Pendergrast; Vivian Johnson; Wayne& Ginny Potratz
Re: Nic Puzak
Wednesday, October 12, 2016 5:28:45 PM
Since I take the bus to work and thus go through this intersection twice a day, it's
hard to miss the idea that we are very close to having a real micro shopping
destination. With two good "dive bars" (sorry, but that's what they call 'em and it is
no longer a put-down) anchoring Como at the east end, and foods from several
cultures on Como and E-Henn, we've got a delicious start of a decent international
"eat street" -- with coffee!
By the way, Football Pizza is still Crescent Moon. THey have the most wonderful
frenchfries ever. Just don't mess their cooking up by dousing the fries with
ketchup. They come already subtly seasoned and perfect.
On Wed, Oct 12, 2016 at 4:56 PM, natalie reciputi <[email protected]> wrote:
Hi all--Please note also that the proposed building at 1501 conforms to Blueprint
recommendations for development along Como Ave. Community Corridor. While
Blueprint recommendations show a slight preference for mixed use (IE--commercial
on the ground floor & dwelling units above) buildings, both mixed use AND
completely residential are both consistent with the plan's recommendations.
I can understand if Mr. Puzak does not like the design or purpose of the building or
the fact that variances were needed to accomplish the building. But I find this sort
of opposition to new development very counter productive for future development
possibilities in our neighborhood. We need to attract developers who are willing to
work within the land use recommendations as laid out in the Blueprint. We certainly
need to work with residents and developers, but objecting to a building on the basis
of: shoulda," "woulda," " coulda" is not going to be productive.
The question is: is this proposed development BETTER that what is currently there?
What is the likelihood of an even better plan coming along in the near future?
Natalie
From: Katie and Rick FOURNIER <[email protected]>
To: Cody Olson <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 10, 2016 11:57 AM
Subject: Nic Puzak
Hi, Cody and Livability Committee
People should know that Nic Puzak is not a resident in this neighborhood. He owns the
rental building on the north side of 1501 Como, as well as other rentals (mostly apartment
buildings, I believe). This doesn't mean that his insistence on a retail presence in the
development at 1501 Como is a bad idea. It's probably a desirable idea.
Nic grew up in Prospect Park. His father built or bought many of the buildings that Nic
now owns. Nic no longer lives in Prospect Park, but pays close attention to what's going
on there and in all of SE Mpls. (He told me last spring where he now lives. I regret that I
can't remember, but it's not in SE Mpls.) You'll see that Nic mentions a phone conversation with CPM properties. They seem to be
involved in the ownership of this proposed building at 1501 Como. Katie
From: Cody Olson <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 10, 2016 11:17 AM
Subject: Fwd: Fw: RE: Fw:
Hi Livability Committee! I just wanted to forward on this email from a resident regarding the 1501 property and his
contact with the councilmembers. Thanks! ---------- Forwarded message ---------From: Nic Puzak <[email protected]>
Date: Sat, Oct 8, 2016 at 10:24 AM
Subject: Fw: RE: Fw:
To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>
fyi...
perhaps some other neighbors will be interested in this appeal ? Please spread the word, having
folks contact CM Reich and Gordon regarding opposition to this under-parked monster.
my phone is 612-237-6941
thank you,
Nic Puzak
-----Forwarded Message----- From: Nic Puzak Sent: Oct 4, 2016 11:01 AM To: "[email protected]" Cc: "barbara.johnson@minnepolismn. gov" , "Lisa.Goodman@minneapolismn. gov" Subject: Good morning:
I write regarding the 1501 SE Como development proposal and appeal.
Thank you for having a CPM representative telephone. A gentleman, Mr. Oberpriller (?) phoned this
past Friday. However, his insistence that I was not entitled to appeal " at the last minute " was
disappointing. Furthermore, while he did inquire as to the basis of my objection to his ideas, his
argumentative nature and repeated mention of expenditures to date left no room for discussion.
Moreover his stating that he must now "take this opposition personally " seems a thinly veiled threat
of unknown tactic. Perhaps he has underestimated risk in real estate development involving a
change of use of the subject property ?
Meanwhile, a much more positive note, Chad Kraft called concerned neighbor(s), as well as email
me willing to discuss the project.
Apparently Chad has an equity stake but of unknown scale. If and when he follows up on our
responses, I'll keep you informed of the timing and nature of the communications.
My efforts in this fledging appeal have I think born some fruit as to what should actually be
developed at this intersection. I've photographed some other MPRB-fronting retail businesses, which
I have learned is in fact quite rare in Minneapolis. Despite spending my career in the brokerage and
appraisal fields, I've gained a significant appreciation for how rare this site may truly become to be
known. And, except for Delmonico's NE site, how much other commercial park frontages even
exists on the
Eastside ? In the short period available prior to our appeal hearing, can you envision any such
parcels anywhere that are unsuccessful? Please consider this scarcity of opportunity for our City's
development " fabric" . 1501 Como could become a very vibrant transit hub with expanded and
properly nurtured retail. So far I have identified a wide range of demographics served by Chicago
Crossings (Franklin at Chicago), The Longfellow Grill (complete with public art!), and Currans Family
Restaurant (Nicollet & 40th S.) where their decades of success is evident despite zero outdoor
seating on King Park. The retail fronting Loring Park is my next destination to view and
photograph their operations.
If you think of it, would you please call/text 612.237.6941 with other ideas of locations ?
Thank you for your consideration,
Nic Puzak
-----Forwarded Message----From: Nic Puzak
Sent: Oct 6, 2016 8:39 AM
To: "Reich,Kevin A."
Cc: "[email protected] " , "[email protected]"
Subject: RE: Fw:
Thank you.
Understood.
We are continuing to gather public-oriented information. Neighbors are gathering signatures. The vision includes 1501 as a transit hub, the first strategic stop north of the main East
Bank campus. The SW exposure to Van Cleve is perfect for outdoor seating. More, not less
retail with exterior flair is the highest and best use. Served by frequently scheduled & even
late night double-length MTC #3 busses running between the University campuses,
this parcel could and should host a beehive of activity. Given the chance, my thirty-five
years working in SE real estate leads me to believe it will flourish by denying the variances
as requested by CPM.
How may MTC lines run regularly, double-length with such extended hours as well as
frequency? Similarly, this location represents the end point of the very successful pedestrian
lighting project on 15th Ave. SE running north-south between Como and University Avenues.
While ignored in the Planning staff report, this small " jog " as an asymmetrical intersection
is very unique to our City.
Our mutual efforts will be presented appropriate to the appeal.
We will respectfully request your support.
Nic Puzak
--
Cody Olson
Interim Executive Director
South East Como Improvement Association
Como Green Village
1170 15th Avenue, Ste 302
Minneapolis, MN 55414
(612) 676-1731
Cell: 414-688-2600
-Emilie Quast
160 Wilson Library, University of Minnesota
Minneapolis MN 55455
[email protected]
From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:
Lila M.
natalie reciputi
Katie and Rick FOURNIER; Toni Pendergast2010; neighbor? Se; Karl Smith; Reich, Kevin A.
Re: Nic Puzak
Wednesday, October 12, 2016 6:39:43 PM
Dear Natilie:
Having seen the plans at a presentation, I saw much to like but I still have a few concerns.
1) There will actually be less green space than there is now. Storm water concerns.
2) The one bedroom apartments are very small, even smaller than my Mom's assisted living
apartment.
Lila
From: natalie reciputi <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, October 12, 2016 4:56 PM
To: Katie and Rick FOURNIER; Cody Olson
Cc: [email protected]; cam Gordon; Andrea Seebach; Emilie Quast; Joan Menken;
Joe Russell; Joyce Portner; Kathy Hoagland; katie fournier; Lila Smith; Lorraine Blake; Lucy Moody;
Mike Rivard; Millie Caspersen; Nancy Tickner; pearl; Sara Hoppe; Stefan Songstad; Steve & Linnea
Peterson; Tim Hopkins; Todd Reubold; Toni Pendergrast; Vivian Johnson; Wayne& Ginny Potratz
Subject: Re: Nic Puzak
Hi all--Please note also that the proposed building at 1501 conforms to Blueprint
recommendations for development along Como Ave. Community Corridor. While
Blueprint recommendations show a slight preference for mixed use (IE--commercial
on the ground floor & dwelling units above) buildings, both mixed use AND completely
residential are both consistent with the plan's recommendations.
I can understand if Mr. Puzak does not like the design or purpose of the building or
the fact that variances were needed to accomplish the building. But I find this sort of
opposition to new development very counter productive for future development
possibilities in our neighborhood. We need to attract developers who are willing to
work within the land use recommendations as laid out in the Blueprint. We certainly
need to work with residents and developers, but objecting to a building on the basis
of: shoulda," "woulda," " coulda" is not going to be productive.
The question is: is this proposed development BETTER that what is currently there?
What is the likelihood of an even better plan coming along in the near future?
Natalie
From: Katie and Rick FOURNIER <[email protected]>
To: Cody Olson <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 10, 2016 11:57 AM
Subject: Nic Puzak
Hi, Cody and Livability Committee
People should know that Nic Puzak is not a resident in this neighborhood. He owns the
rental building on the north side of 1501 Como, as well as other rentals (mostly apartment
buildings, I believe). This doesn't mean that his insistence on a retail presence in the
development at 1501 Como is a bad idea. It's probably a desirable idea.
Nic grew up in Prospect Park. His father built or bought many of the buildings that Nic now
owns. Nic no longer lives in Prospect Park, but pays close attention to what's going on there
and in all of SE Mpls. (He told me last spring where he now lives. I regret that I can't
remember, but it's not in SE Mpls.) You'll see that Nic mentions a phone conversation with CPM properties. They seem to be
involved in the ownership of this proposed building at 1501 Como. Katie
From: Cody Olson <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, October 10, 2016 11:17 AM
Subject: Fwd: Fw: RE: Fw:
Hi Livability Committee! I just wanted to forward on this email from a resident regarding the 1501 property and his
contact with the councilmembers. Thanks! ---------- Forwarded message ---------From: Nic Puzak <[email protected]>
Date: Sat, Oct 8, 2016 at 10:24 AM
Subject: Fw: RE: Fw:
To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>
fyi...
perhaps some other neighbors will be interested in this appeal ? Please spread the word, having folks
contact CM Reich and Gordon regarding opposition to this under-parked monster.
my phone is 612-237-6941
thank you,
Nic Puzak
-----Forwarded Message----- From: Nic Puzak Sent: Oct 4, 2016 11:01 AM To: "[email protected]" Cc: "barbara.johnson@minnepolismn. gov" , "Lisa.Goodman@minneapolismn. gov" Subject: Good morning:
I write regarding the 1501 SE Como development proposal and appeal.
Thank you for having a CPM representative telephone. A gentleman, Mr. Oberpriller (?) phoned this
past Friday. However, his insistence that I was not entitled to appeal " at the last minute " was
disappointing. Furthermore, while he did inquire as to the basis of my objection to his ideas, his
argumentative nature and repeated mention of expenditures to date left no room for discussion.
Moreover his stating that he must now "take this opposition personally " seems a thinly veiled threat of
unknown tactic. Perhaps he has underestimated risk in real estate development involving a change of
use of the subject property ?
Meanwhile, a much more positive note, Chad Kraft called concerned neighbor(s), as well as email me
willing to discuss the project.
Apparently Chad has an equity stake but of unknown scale. If and when he follows up on our
responses, I'll keep you informed of the timing and nature of the communications.
My efforts in this fledging appeal have I think born some fruit as to what should actually be developed
at this intersection. I've photographed some other MPRB-fronting retail businesses, which I have
learned is in fact quite rare in Minneapolis. Despite spending my career in the brokerage and appraisal
fields, I've gained a significant appreciation for how rare this site may truly become to be known. And,
except for Delmonico's NE site, how much other commercial park frontages even exists on the
Eastside ? In the short period available prior to our appeal hearing, can you envision any such parcels
anywhere that are unsuccessful? Please consider this scarcity of opportunity for our City's
development " fabric" . 1501 Como could become a very vibrant transit hub with expanded and
properly nurtured retail. So far I have identified a wide range of demographics served by Chicago
Crossings (Franklin at Chicago), The Longfellow Grill (complete with public art!), and Currans Family
Restaurant (Nicollet & 40th S.) where their decades of success is evident despite zero outdoor seating
on King Park. The retail fronting Loring Park is my next destination to view and photograph their
operations.
If you think of it, would you please call/text 612.237.6941 with other ideas of locations ?
Thank you for your consideration,
Nic Puzak
-----Forwarded Message----From: Nic Puzak
Sent: Oct 6, 2016 8:39 AM
To: "Reich,Kevin A."
Cc: "[email protected] " , "[email protected]"
Subject: RE: Fw:
Thank you.
Understood.
We are continuing to gather public-oriented information. Neighbors are gathering signatures. The vision includes 1501 as a transit hub, the first strategic stop north of the main East
Bank campus. The SW exposure to Van Cleve is perfect for outdoor seating. More, not less
retail with exterior flair is the highest and best use. Served by frequently scheduled & even
late night double-length MTC #3 busses running between the University campuses, this parcel
could and should host a beehive of activity. Given the chance, my thirty-five years working in
SE real estate leads me to believe it will flourish by denying the variances as requested by
CPM.
How may MTC lines run regularly, double-length with such extended hours as well as
frequency? Similarly, this location represents the end point of the very successful pedestrian
lighting project on 15th Ave. SE running north-south between Como and University Avenues.
While ignored in the Planning staff report, this small " jog " as an asymmetrical intersection is
very unique to our City.
Our mutual efforts will be presented appropriate to the appeal.
We will respectfully request your support.
Nic Puzak
--
Cody Olson
Interim Executive Director
South East Como Improvement Association
Como Green Village
1170 15th Avenue, Ste 302
Minneapolis, MN 55414
(612) 676-1731
Cell: 414-688-2600