John Meiners

You and Chris present interesting arguments. I mostly agree with your rebuttal but would be happy if Chris's proposals could be accomplished

I'm not sure there's much Mr. Rasansky can do anyway, but it would be nice to have him apply some thought and resources to what could be done, to give some encouragement and traction to interested people like Chris.

I have owned a townhouse there for 25 years and have sadly watched the decline of the area. Another factor in VM's decline was the real estate crash of the 80's and subsequent disposal of much of the property to bargain hunters. I think some of that went to DHA. Also, they threw up some poorly constructed properties like the ones recently razed for the new DISD projects.

The diversity that brings cultural and social interest to the neighborhood is sadly outweighed by the crime and intimidation brought by whores, car wash loiterers, drug users / dealers and thieves that abound in the area.

Perhaps they are a result of a ready market for their services, inadequate police activity and a lack of other opportunities to earn a living. For whatever reason, they exist where there are cheap rents, low standards and not much is expected of residents.

Vote? I doubt if a majority are even eligible and as renters are prone toward apathy.

When the public and property safety problems are solved, the other problems will be easy to resolve. People will invest in infrastructure when they can be confident their efforts and resources are not going to be wasted. They will patronize local small businesses and recreation areas if they are safe and clean.

I do agree with Chris that a farmers market type outdoor marketplace could flourish if proper sanitation and safety standards could be maintained. Also, if it could be done without over managing to the point that it's too restrictive, too exclusive or too expensive to attract more interesting merchants and food vendors. It could be a great local and tourist destination. Afternoon music and art festivals, political rallies, community information forums, etc. could be held there. Let's celebrate and enjoy our international diversity as an asset. Can't be done though. if criminals continue to prevail.

The development of Park Lane Place and the Trammell Crow investment are welcome news as is the attention provided by your articles. However, I don't think we need high dollar gentrification, we just need to protect, clean and respect the place.

Jon Meiners