Letters - Mar 2026

Let’s make housing reform a priority
I moved to St. Paul a few years ago, and I’d barely been here a month when I had that quintessential Minnesota experience of a stranger helping me free my car from the snow. I love this city and would like to stay for many years, but I’m currently priced out of home ownership – as are most of my friends.

It’s no secret that Minnesota does not have enough housing to satisfy the needs of Minnesotans; according to some estimates, we need 100,000 more homes than are currently available. Unfortunately, Minnesota’s current zoning rules make it more difficult to build new, affordable housing; it’s not surprising that that housing deficit has doubled since 2018.

When the state legislature convenes in the new year, they should make housing reform one of their top priorities. Legislation that would ease requirements on parking lots and elevators, for example, could help increase housing density and start putting a dent in that deficit. I hope you’ll join me in contacting your state reps and urging them to support bills that would promote affordable housing; at such a polarized time, this could be an area where both sides can collaborate.
Justin Quam
Selby-Dale

THANKS, ODILIA, FOR LETTER LAST MONTH
I’m reading the latest paper and in reading “letters” from Odilia, a student at Central High school, I was absolutely moved by the humanity in the tone and the picture she illustrates with her words. It was impactful and I applaud her for writing - and hope she keeps writing!
Take great care,
Lindsay Millett-Glass

Grateful for an excellent NEWSPAPER
I live in the Como neighborhood and just finished reading the latest issue of the Monitor. Thank you for a truly excellent edition of the paper. Your inclusion of articles about how our friends and neighbors reacted to the unbelievably awful ICE occupation was inspiring, but even more helpful were suggestions and even lists of how we can help those who need it the most right now. It is much appreciated.

I will be making a donation in support of the local, neighborhood newspapers that contain such relevant and timely information. Thank you.
Nancy Triplett