Develop With Dignity Coalition
Develop with Dignity is a coalition of churches, organizations, businesses and neighbors interested in
developing the North St. Louis community while respecting the dignity of area residents.
After several decades of economic decline and social neglect, the North St. Louis community is in need of development. In recent months, there has been much discussion about the possibility of a large
scale development in our community. It is worth mentioning, that a great deal
of development is already taking place in our community. Many of these developers,
through their examples, have given rise to the principles of “Develop with Dignity.” Develop with Dignity has four principles which we believe are essential for recognizing the intrinsic human
dignity of those most affected by development. While these principles do not
encompass the whole of dignified development, they do provide a baseline, a set minimum which all developers must meet. Develop
with Dignity is at its heart about committing to the community one seeks to develop, or quit developing in the community. We, the undersigned,
join in support of the Develop with Dignity Coalition and are committed to the four principles for a dignified development.
The Four Principles:
1. Engage area residents and their elected officials in formulating a redevelopment
plan.
Every resident has the right to understand and influence the future of their community. Through open dialogue, residents, developers, and elected officials can voice their
concerns and support one another. Communicating is an essential component of
dignified development and can be accomplished through block units, church groups, and town hall meetings to name a few.
2. No use of eminent domain on owner occupied property.
Every resident has the right to remain in their home.
The forceful removal of a resident is an attack on their dignity. There
are many other options available beyond eminent domain which can be discussed with local developers, residents, elected and
city officials. Tremendous strides have been made in our community without the
use of this tactic, and there is no reason this trend cannot continue.
3. Maintain current properties so they do not become a nuisance or a danger to
the community.
Every resident has the right to safety and hope.
All developers who own abandoned properties/buildings must comply with existing codes to ensure the safety, security
and health of area residents. Further, developers must avoid unnecessary urban
blight. Decaying buildings and unkempt properties breed hopelessness. Allowing a property to decay is a denial of dignity.
4. Every consideration must be given
to developing diverse communities.
Every person has the right to belong to a stable community. Communities that have economic, racial, and spiritual diversity create stability, cohesiveness, and unity. Therefore, we urge development of diverse communities that mix low and moderate income
units with market rate housing.
All development must be rooted in love of God and neighbor which requires
dignity, a respect that comes from working with the residents, elected officials, and community organizations within the area
of proposed redevelopment. We are in favor of development in North St. Louis
unless that development further deprives this community of its dignity.
Therefore, we call upon developers to commit to Develop with Dignity or Quit
developing in our community!
