Letter: Proposed Massman plant design sets good example

To the editor:

Attending a recent Alexandria City Council meeting, I had the opportunity to see a presentation by Massman Companies CEO Jeff Hohn related to their TIF request from the city. In addition to emphasizing the economic benefits of this new facility to our community, Hohn highlighted the attention given to designing the new plant to respect the surrounding topography.

According to the report in the Echo, the facility “will create an environment that’s attractive to employees and community while preserving the integrity of the site and surrounding land.” Hohn mentioned the new facility will be designed with an abundance of natural light, outdoor access and walking trails, as well as the preservation of the natural landscape surrounding the new plant.

Another presentation at the council meeting from a representative of the local Citizens for a Sustainable Future (CSF) correlated closely with Hohn’s. Judy Berger asked that the City of Alexandria become a” Sustainable City” and appoint a coordinator to move the process forward. She pointed out that many cities and counties across Minnesota have taken advantage of state and federal incentives to focus on energy conservation, environmental enhancements and the promotion of citizen attention to the risks of climate change.

I hope Massman would consider an additional feature to its new plant to make it a true example of sustainability: The large flat roof would look great with an array of solar panels. That would not only be a long-term economic benefit for them, but also would set an example for other businesses in the community to follow.

Ken Howell
Member of Citizens for a Sustainable Future
Alexandria, MN