The temporary housing park near 55th Street Southeast has taken a big step toward becoming part of a permanent solution to the city's housing shortage.
We agree with the Minot Planning Commission's recommendation that the city council approve zoning changes and subdivisions to allow part of the Federal Emergency Management Agency's housing site to be used as a mobile home park and a location for new affordable housing.
Residents in that area have expressed concerns over drainage and traffic, Complaints about increased traffic just don't carry as much weight as they used to, simply because traffic has increased in every part of the city. Yes, there will be additional traffic in the 55th Street area if the former FEMA site is converted to permanent housing. But there is additional traffic in every part of town thanks to an increasing population and housing growth in every sector of the city. It's a legitimate concern, but in this case it should not scuttle the project.
We believe the city and owner of the property will take proper steps to help alleviate potential problems with drainage and traffic. And our overriding concern is this: There remains a great need for truly affordable housing in this city, and this project would be part of the solution. The project would provide permanent housing for many families that remain displaced by the Souris River flood of 2011 and have few other options.
Sometimes, the greater need should win out over individual concerns. Progress does not come without some consequences.