Zero Expansion extends their appreciation and thanks to both Sherry Butcher and Kathy Nelson for their consistent support and understanding that it was necessary for the city to clarify its position. As children we're all taught the adage, "it's not what you say that counts, it's what you do." We feel that both Butcher and Nelson sensed a disparity between what the council leadership was saying and what they were doing. That is why our organization suggested a Resolution to put the council on record to continue the neutral position that was taken by the previous council.
Is the motion adequate? We think Sherry did what she felt would build consensus and be approved by all. She wanted a consensus of support and she worked very hard for that. When she knew her Resolution would not be approved by three members of the council, she withdrew it and offered a motion instead. We understand that she did not want to put the council through a protracted debate and fight, she wanted resolution.
What's important is that Zero Expansion identified that the problem, which was characterized by some council members as one of perception, is in fact, an entirely new pro-airport position. Going forward we'd like to see all our city representatives' words match their actions, which should reflect a neutral position toward the airport and the expansion.
Sherry Butcher's Version of the Resolution
Chronology and Analysis of Events That Led Up To Request For a Resolution 2007
Chamber Of Commerce Meeting On March 6, 2007
The Chamber meeting minutes can be seen in its entirety on the city's web site under March 8, 2007 Eden Prairie Airport Advisory Commission Link minutes.
http://www.edenprairie.org/vCurrent/upload/contents/242/03-08-07%20Approved%20Minutes.pdf
Zero Expansion's Resolution's Second Edited Resolution
Open Letter to the Community From Zero Expansion
Chronology and Analysis of Events 2007
http://www.edenprairie.org/vCurrent/upload/contents/242/03-08-07%20Approved%20Minutes.pdf
How Eden Prairie's elected officials and city staff betrayed the public.
Final Agreement Eden Prairie MAC