Open Letter: North Star Apartment Curfew
I have enjoyed living at North Star Apartments for over 3 years. It has
been a very nice place to live and where I plan to continue to live.
However, the new curfew at the building is unacceptable.
Brainerd HRA Management sent out a notice August 23, 2007 about a 10pm
to 7am curfew to be enacted immediately. The curfew notice states that
there can be no gatherings in any of common areas including the
entrance. It was verbally specified a gathering is 2 or more people.
No written reason was given for this notice.
Our lease states that for changes in house rules a 30 day notice and
comment period with a reason will be given. According to the meeting,
the term "gathering" is new. Also house rules must be posted on the
property. I could not find rules posted on the property.
The reason for the curfew stated at the meeting was gossip, disruptive
behavior, staring, dirty looks, teasing, and noise. I personally have
only noticed some teasing and noise. I don't know how gossip can be
defined or regulated. It was stated that other rules such as no eating
in the common areas will now be enforced.
Most residents I have heard from are upset about this, or at least think
that management is not doing this the right way. I have heard of at
least one longtime resident moving out because of this already. This
policy may break the lease or our 1st amendment rights limiting speech
and assembly.
It has also come to my attention that a Brainerd HRA staff member yelled
or screamed threatening several residents in front of others. This is
not appropriate and could be considered criminal.
I hope the Brainerd HRA change this policy and treat its tenants fairly.
Nathan Steffenson
http://www.natezone.com
410 E RIVER RD APT 1006
BRAINERD MN 56401-3548