Letter: Don’t sell public land

Dear Editor,

After observing the debate regarding the public property versus private dock issue carry on for weeks, and after last week’s council meeting, I am stunned a decision has yet to be made.

It is important that the city know so many actually care about our city’s assets, and natural resources. I do not support selling any riverfront property that the city of Hudson owns, and am astonished this option would even be considered or suggested.

Those who have erected docks on the St. Croix City property are outside the law, and have been for a very long time. Because they have been for so long does not make their position stronger. The claim that some were allegedly “told” years ago by a real estate agent that their home purchase included riverfront property is irrelevant. It is the responsibility of the purchaser to know what they are purchasing, what is lawful, and what is not.

Requiring the docks to come down should not be looked at as taking something away from individuals. Those with docks have had the benefit of nearly exclusive use of valuable public property for years upon years. They did so without paying any tax, lease or permit fees, and thankfully no accidents occurred that could have left the city of Hudson responsible.

After 20-plus years, it is time to set the record straight and the city to make use of their beautiful natural resource. Perhaps a fishing dock, or simply leaving it natural for all to enjoy.

A decision to sell is not for the greater good of the city of Hudson, a resolution to appease a handful of First Street home owners, or a good choice to raise revenue for Hudson. Once the section is sold, it is gone forever.

Tags: opinion, letters, environment, outdoors