Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Who is actually building the New Planned Parenthood Clinic?

Every so often I check the Minnesota Department of Administration's IPAD web site.  On the site is information on our state laws that relate to access to government data and privacy rights.  It also lists opinions which the Commissioner of Administration has made decisions on as it relates to interpretation of the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act.

Last week I read the latest opinion issued by the Commissioner.  What a doozy.   It states that the City of St Paul can make not public or secret identities of contractors, subcontractors, and almost any one else that is involved with the new construction of the Planned Parenthood facilities.

Planned Parenthood of Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota (PPMNS) is building a new facility in St. Paul.  In order to build, PPMNS must file building plans, get building permits, and allow inspection of the construction and get approval by city officials.

What is so unusual about the Commissioner's opinion in my judgement is the sweep of it to which St Paul is allowed to broadly decide what information should be public.  I have never seen an opinion like it before. The Commissioner in the opinion states that St Paul should not use it as "a blanket classification scheme."  I wondered about that so I visited the St Paul agency that oversees the permits and construction.  The name of the agency is the Department of Safety and Inspections. (DSI)

I called and visited with DSI staff about the opinion and how they were interpreting it.  I can understand why building plans, security, layout scheme and data specifically related to those areas of the facility can be not public per the opinion, but anything more I question.  The staff I met with indicated to me that DSI is taking the position that every document filed with them, in their entirety, architectural plans and other documents related to the construction of the PPMNS building is not public or "security information".

This would mean the names of the contractors, subcontractors, and others also would not be public.  I could see no rationale for that.  The opinion says that companies that have worked on PPMNS projects have been subject to threats and boycott campaigns. 

Threats towards parties that are involved in the PPMNS project cannot be tolerated by anyone and need to be dealt with immediately and investigated by law enforcement authorities.  I have no knowledge as to the degree of the threats, but I do not see it as blanket justification for closing public access to all identities of suppliers, vendors, subcontractors as it seems the City is doing.

Another side to this situation is what about the general permits that are public and collected by another part of DSI, for plumbing, electrical, and other venues of the building process for the PPMNS project.  When I questioned DSI staff as to whether or not the general permit data are public I was told that they may be applying the scope of the Commissioner's opinion to that data.  The City Attorney may be reviewing that question currently.

I do not believe that data that is public should be made not public under security information without without a very well documented, intensive and thorough review.  As to the plans of the building which involve layout and security the case has been made.  Identities no.  The City of St Paul is interpreting the opinion too broadly now and may in the future to other permit data.  Are they using it as "blanket" for all public data to the PPMNS project?

The public has a right to know who builds structures in their communities for a number of reasons from safety to accountability.  Another aspect to this situation is that some people in our community may have a viewpoint different than PPMNS.  A segment of our community would like to let people know what businesses are doing work on the PPMNS project or public members may not want to do work with companies or individuals who work on the project.

I spoke with Don Gemberling about the Commissioner's opinion.  Mr. Gemberling is former director of the division now known as IPAD.  He told me about a Minnesota Supreme Court that was decided in 1978 with similar issues.  

The court decision was named: Minnesota Medical Association vs State of Minnesota, 274 NW2d 84.  The case held that names of all physicians, clinics, and hospitals that had performed abortions with state monies are open to public scrutiny.  An argument used against having identities to be public was that there would be boycotts, pickets, and other threats.  33 years later similar arguments, different times, yes.

But it is a case in point not to allow the City of St Paul to arbitrarily deny the public access to public data of the PPMNS project, particularly identities of the contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, vendors, and others.

55 comments:

  1. "This would mean the names of the contractors, subcontractors, and others also would not be public. I could see no rationale for that."


    Rich: There have been instances where the vitriol of those who oppose a full range of health care for women have taken their cause farther than makes sense: http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/politics/2001815159_abortion15.html

    From the article:

    AUSTIN, Texas — Two months ago, construction crews were busy laying the groundwork for a $6.2 million Planned Parenthood clinic on the city's south side. But the site is deserted now. Dust blows in the wind; a padlock clangs against a chain-link fence.

    Work halted last month after local subcontractors were persuaded by anti-abortion activists led by a building-supply executive to steer clear of the project or face the loss of future work. As pressure and controversy over the project grew, subcontractors stayed away and the general contractor — one of the largest in the state — pulled out.

    The construction boycott is a new twist in the abortion-protest movement, and one its backers say they hope to see used elsewhere.

    Abortion-rights activists decry it as economic blackmail.

    "They pressured and intimidated mom-and-pop businesses that are not political, people who are just trying to make a living," said Glenda Parks, chief executive of Planned Parenthood of the Texas Capital Region.

    ReplyDelete
  2. This is such a great resource that you are providing and you give it away for free. I love seeing blog that understand the value of providing a quality resource for free. momblogger

    ReplyDelete
  3. Just saying thanks will not just be sufficient, for the fantasti c lucidity in your writing. I will instantly grab your rss feed to stay informed of any updates. 3D elevation of house

    ReplyDelete
  4. Easily, the article is actually the best topic on this registry related issue. I fit in with your conclusions and will eagerly look forward to your next updates. 3D elevation of house

    ReplyDelete
  5. Replenish 360 offers one of the most affordable wellness and preventative services that are personalized and one of the most activating one-of-a-kind IV drip and infusions, vitamin and antioxidant supplementation, micronutrient therapy, and other additional supplementary wellness services to “renew your body, refresh your mind, and restore performance.” IV Hydration Therapy

    ReplyDelete
  6. Nice to be visiting your blog again, it has been months for me. Well this article that i've been waited for so long. I need this article to complete my assignment in the college, and it has same topic with your article. Thanks, great share. BYDLENÍ

    ReplyDelete
  7. I definitely enjoying every little bit of it. It is a great website and nice share. I want to thank you. Good job! You guys do a great blog, and have some great contents. Keep up the good work. Raineth Housing

    ReplyDelete
  8. When you use a genuine service, you will be able to provide instructions, share materials and choose the formatting style. Edward Renwick

    ReplyDelete
  9. It was wondering if I could use this write-up on my other website, I will link it back to your website though.Great Thanks. Consulta de psicologia en madrid

    ReplyDelete
  10. With so many books and articles coming up to give gateway to make-money-online field and confusing reader even more on the actual way of earning money, 조루수술

    ReplyDelete
  11. I'm happy to see the considerable subtle element here!. is can i run it safe

    ReplyDelete
  12. We have a great deal of helpful information on how to have the appropriate health insurance. This means, personal health care expense burden could be eased. Wellness insurance companies numerous insurance policy options in addition scrap typically the industry. medical care by country

    ReplyDelete
  13. I’ve read some good stuff here. Definitely worth bookmarking for revisiting. I surprise how much effort you put to create such a great informative website.
    Entreprise Générale

    ReplyDelete
  14. Amazingly composed blog that has transfixed its crowd.
    Pallet Services

    ReplyDelete
  15. You can do very creative work in a particular field. Exceptional concept That was incredible share. Jonas Kahnwald Jacket

    ReplyDelete
  16. We have sell some products of different custom boxes.it is very useful and very low price please visits this site thanks and please share this post with your friends. New home builder Mandurah

    ReplyDelete
  17. I see some amazingly important and kept up to length of your strength searching for in your on the site Kernbohrungen Zürich

    ReplyDelete
  18. Our the purpose is to share the reviews about the latest Jackets,Coats and Vests also shre the related Movies,Gaming, Casual,Faux Leather and Leather materials available Outlaw Vest

    ReplyDelete
  19. Thanks for sharing the good information. I love the painting and spending time on painting related information. Keep sharing the good content. You can also visit some advanced Kernbohrung to spend some good time as an artist.

    ReplyDelete
  20. Nice post! This is a very nice blog that I will definitively come back to more times this year! Thanks for informative post. Pediatrician Houston

    ReplyDelete
  21. Pretty good post. I have really enjoyed reading your blog posts.Any way Here I am Specialist in Manufacturing of Movies, Gaming, Casual, Faux Leather Jackets, Coats And Vests See Resident Evil 4 Jacket

    ReplyDelete
  22. If you are looking for more information about flat rate locksmith Las Vegas check that right away. RV dealer in Carthage mo

    ReplyDelete
  23. Construction accident attorneys are legal professionals whose role is to cater for construction related accidents and incidents. Their responsibility lies in ensuring that the people injured in a construction site are well compensated by the ones responsible for those accidents. They cater all legal matters geared at sustaining legal proceedings against the employer/construction company and their respective insurance companies so that the accident victims are adequately compensated. آرین سازه

    ReplyDelete
  24. I'm glad I found this web site, I couldn't find any knowledge on this matter prior to.Also operate a site and if you are ever interested in doing some visitor writing for me if possible feel free to let me know, im always look for people to check out my web site. سهام 50 متری

    ReplyDelete
  25. It is important to note that the clinical research associate profession involves a lot of responsibility and dedication, rendering a long-term career in the branch quite demanding. clinical research of west florida

    ReplyDelete
  26. This blog is really great. The information here will surely be of some help to me. Thanks!. catchy business names

    ReplyDelete
  27. Hello, I have browsed most of your posts. This post is probably where I got the most useful information for my research. Thanks for posting, maybe we can see more on this. Are you aware of any other websites on this subject.미프진

    ReplyDelete
  28. This particular is usually apparently essential and moreover outstanding truth along with for sure fair-minded and moreover admittedly useful My business is looking to find in advance designed for this specific useful stuffs… Asheville Property Management

    ReplyDelete
  29. Although serious supply-demand imbalances have continued to plague real estate markets into the 2000s in many areas, the mobility of capital in current sophisticated financial markets is encouraging to real estate developers. The loss of tax-shelter markets drained a significant amount of capital from real estate and, in the short run, had a devastating effect on segments of the industry. However, most experts agree that many of those driven from real estate development and the real estate finance business were unprepared and ill-suited as investors. In the long run, a return to real estate development that is grounded in the basics of economics, real demand, and real profits will benefit the industry. fha loan limits nevada

    ReplyDelete
  30. This was an extremely wonderful post. Thanks for providing this info. Supreme Team Varsity Jacket

    ReplyDelete
  31. chiangmai termite exterminator which is low price rid termites control company. local exterminators to assist in proper identification and treatment of the household termites problems. The professionals listed in our exterminator directory have the knowledge, tools, and training to safely and properly eliminate pest infestations. ฉีดปลวกเชียงใหม่ทาวน์เฮ้าส์ราคา

    ReplyDelete
  32. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  33. Thanks for bringing a light about the construction of the parenthood clinic. This is absolutely a good news for the people in that area and also for the world health advancement. I like the way you focused the building and the planners details. For any type of home or commercial construction concrete contractors in Los Angeles can be a reliable and affordable company to go.

    ReplyDelete
  34. it was a wonderful chance to visit this kind of site and I am happy to know. thank you so much for giving us a chance to have this opportunity.. Glasreinigung Göttingen

    ReplyDelete
  35. This is a great inspiring article.I am pretty much pleased with your good work.You put really very helpful information. Keep it up. Keep blogging. Looking to reading your next post.Excellent article. Very interesting to read. I really love to read such a nice article. Thanks! keep rocking. 토토안전센터

    ReplyDelete
  36. I’m very pleased to find this site. I need to to thank you for ones time due to this wonderful read!! I definitely really liked every little bit of it and i also have you saved as a favorite to check out new stuff on your site. I’m very pleased to find this site. I need to to thank you for ones time due to this wonderful read!! I definitely really liked every little bit of it and i also have you saved as a favorite to check out new stuff on your site. 먹튀신고

    ReplyDelete
  37. Thank you so much for the post you do. I like your post and all you share with us is up to date and quite informative, i would like to bookmark the page so i can come here again to read you, as you have done a wonderful job. This is a great inspiring article.I am pretty much pleased with your good work.You put really very helpful information. Keep it up. Keep blogging. Looking to reading your next post. I admire what you have done here. I like the part where you say you are doing this to give back but I would assume by all the comments that this is working for you as well. 토토SOS

    ReplyDelete
  38. I think this is an informative post and it is very beneficial and knowledgeable. Therefore, I would like to thank you for the endeavors that you have made in writing this article. All the content is absolutely well-researched. Thanks.. Thanks for such a great post and the review, I am totally impressed! Keep stuff like this coming I have prepared this updated practice exam with answers! 50 questions with answers. It will help you succeed in this certification exam 안전놀이터

    ReplyDelete
  39. Cool you write, the information is very good and interesting, I'll give you a link to my site. I am very enjoyed for this blog. Its an informative topic. It help me very much to solve some problems. Its opportunity are so fantastic and working style so speedy. I truly like you're composing style, incredible data, thankyou for posting. I see the greatest contents on your blog and I extremely love reading them. 토토거래소

    ReplyDelete
  40. Very informative post! There is a lot of information here that can help any business get started with a successful social networking campaign.I found your this post while searching for some related information on blog search...Its a good post..keep posting and update the information. 온카맨

    ReplyDelete
  41. I really enjoyed reading your articles. It looks like you’ve spent a lot of time and effort on your blog. Han Solo Jacket

    ReplyDelete
  42. Construction accident attorneys are legal professionals whose role is to cater for construction related accidents and incidents. Their responsibility lies in ensuring that the people injured in a construction site are well compensated by the ones responsible for those accidents. They cater all legal matters geared at sustaining legal proceedings against the employer/construction company and their respective insurance companies so that the accident victims are adequately compensated. مرشد سياحي جدة

    ReplyDelete
  43. Construction in Indiana has increased over the years. After the recent recession, it has been more than free to accept new workers in this field. Towing Company Lake Charles LA

    ReplyDelete
  44. Thanks for taking the time to discuss this, I feel strongly about it and love learning more on this topic. If possible, as you gain expertise, would you mind updating your blog with extra information? It is extremely helpful for me Apple iPhone SE (2020) Price

    ReplyDelete
  45. A plumbing system usually refers to a network of pipes and fixtures which regulate the potable water and the waste in a building. The construction of plumbing structures varies from town to town depending on the weather and overall public infrastructure. Areas with extremely low temperature need a plumbing system which can handle the harsh weather and ensure uninterrupted supply of clean water and quick waste removal. plumbers in park city utah

    ReplyDelete
  46. There are several factors to review before choosing your plumbing service company. Find out how to screen companies and attain exceptional service. kitchen & bath remodeling

    ReplyDelete
  47. Green construction jobs are becoming the norm in the contracting and construction industries, so to remain competitive construction professionals must expand their skill set in the green and eco-friendly building fields. More companies are opting to construct green buildings, with seventy percent of executives and developers making their firms part of sustainability programs for tax breaks and the benefit of reduced operating costs. Financial benefits like these are among the many reasons why green buildings are being built so frequently and why there is a demand for workers and contractors with sustainable construction skills and a familiarity with eco-friendly construction. But what do contractors, journeymen, and construction specialist need to know about working on green buildings? kitchen remodeling

    ReplyDelete
  48. Construction equipments are generally used for companies involved in construction and roadways. These equipments are quite essential for completing various construction projects and road repair works. kitchen remodeling

    ReplyDelete
  49. Local Landscaping Cranbourne is your premium local landscaping service in Cranbourne and the surrounding area. Our services include Landscape and Garden Design, Landscape Construction, Landscape Water Features, Landscape Lighting Installation, Landscape Maintenance Service, Gardening Service, Lawn Care Installation and Maintenance Services, including the area around your driveway. No job is too big or too small for your Cranbourne landscaping requirements. Call Local Landscaping Cranbourne today to discuss your requirements on (03) 5910 3000 Cranbourne Landscaping

    ReplyDelete
  50. This is such a great resource that you are providing and you give it away for free. I love seeing blog that understand the value of providing a quality resource for free. Excellent blog you have got here... It’s difficult to find high-quality writing like yours these days. I also refer to our blog . It is exciting to read it and, use it. Thanks for the article. Your article looks really adorable, here's a site link i dropped for you which you may like. Remarkable article, it is particularly useful! I quietly began in this, and I'm becoming more acquainted with it better! Delights, keep doing more and extra impressive 메이저사이트

    ReplyDelete
  51. I am now not certain where you are getting your information, however good topic. I needs to spend some time learning more or working out more. Thanks for great information I used to be searching for this information for my mission. A very awesome blog post. We are really grateful for your blog post. You will find a lot of approaches after visiting your post. I was exactly searching for. Thanks for such post and please keep it up . i am for the first time here. I found this board and I in finding It truly helpful & it helped me out a lot. I hope to present something back and help others such as you helped me. Awesome article, it was exceptionally helpful! I simply began in this and I'm becoming more acquainted with it better! Cheers, keep doing awesome! 먹튀검증

    ReplyDelete
  52. A construction loan helps in building your dream home. But don't apply for the loan package without complete knowledge. Learn the meaning of a construction loan. Also, understand how it works. Diesel Truck Repair Diesel Mechanic Diesel Mechanic Truck Repair

    ReplyDelete
  53. Are you still stuck on the fence about whether or not to hire a home stager? How about 101 great reasons why you should consider this very smart real estate investment? You may be surprised to learn some of these reasons really do make practical sense. fertilizers for indoor plants

    ReplyDelete
  54. This is primarily written about the Australian residential construction market. What is Construction Management? To understand how to manage something we must first identify what it is. Towing Company

    ReplyDelete
  55. What a fabulous job you did for your readers and fan-followers! So brilliant, so praising. Yeah, every construction work has it's own pre-history. Glad to learn about the Parenthood Clinic and the effective details of its building plan. In fact, I wanted to diver into some online contribution regarding the concrete contractor sacramento service. But it was truly a good read and experience.

    ReplyDelete