Minnetonka Residents Fight City’s Plans to Develop 

Image Source: Sun Sailor

When people choose to purchase property, they often put a lot of thought into the location, since it is one of the few things that people will never be able to change about the property. For some, proximity to work or recreation is important. For others, the feel of the neighborhood attracts them to the area, while some like the access to amenities like public transportation. While the individual reason for purchasing a property will change for each person, an instinct to protect a person’s property is more universal. Real estate litigation can arise when property owners feel that their property is threatened.

Community members in Minnetonka, Minnesota are fighting potential changes to their city in order to protect its overall feeling. According to reports, city officials are trying to redevelop areas around the Ridgedale Mall. These officials want to attract younger people and baby boomers to the area by making it walking friendly and urban — similar to what is being done Edina, St. Louis Park and other suburbs.

While the long term plan could include adding green space, replacing parking lots with parking structures and adding mass transit, the short term plan includes a mid-rise, mixed use building near the popular mall. Neighbors have expressed concern that this type of building will change the appeal of the city. Opponents of the project say that the suburb is known for its village-feel which would change by adding higher-density buildings. Further, they argue that the building would look out of place in a city of single-family homes on wooded lots.

In situations like these, property owners should know that they have legal rights. There are city ordinances, zoning laws and other procedural protections in place to help protect the rights of property owners. With the right help, people can assert their rights to protect their property and the feel of the area it’s in.

Source: Star Tribune, “Minnetonka residents oppose mid-rise building near Ridgedale,” Kelly Smith, Oct. 8, 2014