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What is a home? Everyone has a dream, an idea, and no two are alike. So why do we want to build a complex to push people to live on top of one another? Can we look beyond what has always been and do better?
Believe we can build, and we will only be better.
Building for people requires interest and investment in doing what is right for the people of the community first. In putting community first, you think, become innovative, listen to new ideas, and find new ways to make this work.
Of all things to design for in building is the issue of wastewater.
One type of wastewater is called gray water (laundry, dishes, baths, etc.) Now is the time to rethink and repurpose. A National Geographic article in March 2023 issue features a “how to” that can successfully save you money and serve a practical purpose, namely watering lawns, flowers, and vegetables.
The other wastewater is the toilet. You know how much this uses in water, the land it occupies, and the system’s ongoing maintenance. There is little repurposing or environmentally friendly about a sewer.
But if your goal is to create housing and if you are able or willing to forget everything you thought you knew and you are willing to learn along with the people you are building for or with, then anything is possible.
It’s a simpler alternative called a composting toilet. They work very well, and the cost is a fraction of a traditional system. In addition, they use no land, and they are environmentally friendly.
These two new ways to build mean you can live almost anywhere; a city is no longer the only option, and each offers more possibilities.
Are you ready to help Planning and Zoning look for new ways? Will you listen to the contractors and installers who may speak against such ideas?
We’ve been in a rut for the last 30 years. It won’t be easy. There is a whole world of professionals who may not be able to let go, move forward, and revamp their thinking.
Ask: Who is in control? Where does the dollar start and stop?
Arvis Thompson, Grand Marais
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