Okay, I've lived in the Old NE for 12-13 years, and never lifted a finger for my neighborhood. I admit it. Mea culpa. BUT- I'm ready now (finally?!). Why now?

Duplexes.

Yes, we can call them townhouses, and they certainly are upscale, usually an improvement over the structure that was there. The problem is the scale of these buildings. On 8th AV NE, Bay ST between 8th and 9th. Because of woefully inadaquate zoning codes, builders can literally fill up a lot with a 2-unit monstrosity and clean up on the thing.

I'm all for capitalism, and I believe hard work and business savvy should be rewarded- the problem comes for the neighbors of these buildings, looking out at HUGE WALLS as their new view. Most of these lots were designed for bungalows. Values are actually going DOWN for houses stuck in the shadows of these lot-busters, and people are selling all around them- ask them why!!

We need to do something now, before the flavor of our neighborhood is changed forever. I now support the ''Local Historic District'' Designation, and I'm willing to go door-to-door to convince my neighbors.

Now is the time. Now is my time. I can be reached at 727.251.2471, and I'd love get others input.

Tim Keenan, 321 9th AV NE