Latest news with #Blaine
Daily Mail
2 days ago
- Business
- Daily Mail
Neighbors at war in suburban Minnesota over resident's perfectly LEGAL plan
A Minnesota suburbs' solution to the housing crisis backfired and sparked an almighty debate among residents who are up in arms over one neighbor's plan to build a tiny home on his land. The Blaine City Council decided to allow residents to build 'accessory dwelling units' (ADUs) on their properties in an attempt to allow for more affordable housing. Now, four years later, homeowner Alex Pepin became the first to apply for planning permission to build one. But in doing so, Pepin sparked uproar within the community and the council began to completely reconsider their solution. 'Everybody is upset,' said resident David Hime, Star Tribune reported. 'The neighborhood is up in arms over this.' Pepin runs a nonprofit for the homeless and his plans for his ADU would be with hopes to rent it out to a family in need. 'There's no encampments in the north metro or anything like that, but there is, you know, homelessness is an issue,' Pepin told CBS News. 'It would be families coming out of homelessness, so they would have gone through a program first.' His goals were to help families eventually find permanent housing solutions, working alongside nonprofits. His application was approved, before the council then revoked the permissions following backlash within the community. 'Their ruling was based on the concerns from other people that were not necessarily grounded in fact or anything,' Pepin told the outlet. 'It was disappointing for us. We're just trying to do an allowable activity in the city. This is an allowable means to get affordable housing for people who need help in our community,' Pepin told the Tribune. Hime furthered in April that their area was for 'private homes' and hadn't been designed for 'low income housing,' CBS News reported. 'This will destroy the enjoyment of our backyard,' he added, and cited worries of traffic, and the safety of their neighborhood as well as home values in the area. Blaine Mayor Tim Sanders, however, also argued that the ADU movement was not intended for low incoming housing but instead for family or starter homes. 'The intent was for families to have an option for housing, whether it be for parents or in-laws, or kids trying to get their start,' Sanders told the Tribune. 'It was not intended to be a revenue generator for the homeowner to rent out the space to a second family more or less living in someone else's backyard.' Resident Gregory Nelson wrote to the council in April stating: 'This is zoned single family housing... It would be a horrible eye-sore. Plus they want to put a driveway next to the exiting house to drive into the back yard... No one wants cars driving alongside their house into the backyard...' 'This proposal would just decrease the property value of everyone else who lives on the Park... I know to some it may not be a big deal since we are not as big as the new developments in town, but it is important to us.' Jeff and Rhonda Brekkestran wrote in to voice their concerns, and cited property values dropping, the view from their backyard, estrangement between neighbors, as well as security and privacy concerns. Reggie Meyer wrote: 'While I think they are trying to do the right thing, this is not the right place for something like this. These properties are right off a park where children are constantly running around and I don't think having homeless people and recovering addicts in the park is a good thing for families in the neighborhood.' Meyer also pleaded to the council to 'please consider all the families and children at this park while making a decision'. But Pepin said, while he understood the concerns of those within the community who opposed his plans, he believed they had misinterpreted who he would be renting the unit out to. His plan was to build the unit, within the city's restrictions, and most likely rent it out to a single-mother with children following a criminal screening and recent drug testing. Pepin has already submitted a proposal for a unit he intends to use for his family, but has yet to decide if he will contend the decision to deny his unit for a homeless family considering it was within city requirements Pepin's proposal - meeting city requirements- included a two-bedroom, 616 square foot home, with a maximum of four occupants. Pepin hoped that living on the same property as his family would also help provide a support system for the renter, which homeless people often lack. 'We try to live out our Christian lives by caring for people who need support,' he told the Tribune. 'And we know that people coming out of homelessness need time and stability.' Pepin added that he felt 'bad' that the code was being revised following his proposal, but asked how big of a problem it was truly going to be considering he was the first and only application since the policy's approval. He has already submitted a proposal for a unit he intends to use for his family, but has yet to decide if he will contend the decision to deny his unit for a homeless family considering it was within city requirements. Council member Chris Ford said: 'I know it's a highly emotional, charged thing. I do feel for you, the neighbors that don't want this. But right now, it's policy.'
CTV News
5 days ago
- Business
- CTV News
B.C.'s fast-tracking bill heads for final vote, facing criticism to the end
A motorist drives towards U.S. Customs and Border Protection inspection booths at the Peace Arch border crossing in Blaine, Wash., across the Canada-U.S. border from Surrey, B.C., on November 8, 2021. (Darryl Dyck / The Canadian Press) VICTORIA — Controversial legislation to fast-track infrastructure projects in British Columbia goes to a final vote in the legislature on Wednesday night, after attracting condemnation from First Nations leaders and environment and business groups. Speaker Raj Chouhan is expected to cast the deciding vote in favour of the government's Bill 15. The bill responding to American tariff threats promises to speed up public and private infrastructure projects, including mines, but has faced opposition from critics who say it lacked proper consultation with First Nations and others and represents government overreach. The British Columbia Chamber of Commerce is among the latest critics, calling on Premier David Eby to delay the bill until after the spring sitting of the legislature that ends Thursday. It says in a letter Tuesday that while it supports the streamlining of project approval and permitting, it wants the government to spend the summer meeting critics including the private sector to discuss their concerns. The government says it will consult broadly when drafting regulations that invoke the legislation, which has received support from the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade. Legislators are also scheduled to vote Wednesday on bills to speed up the permitting of renewable energy projects and transmission lines, remove internal trade barriers and authorize the budget. The NDP government has a one-seat majority in the legislature, where Opposition B.C. Conservatives, two Greens and three Independents are expected to vote against Bill 15. This report by Wolfgang Depner of The Canadian Press was first published May 28, 2025.
Miami Herald
6 days ago
- Sport
- Miami Herald
Taylor Jean Is Ready to Make Waves at the 2025 Walker's Cay Blue Marlin Open
NORTH PALM BEACH, FL / ACCESS Newswire / May 27, 2025 / The world of offshore sport fishing is a very close-knit community, and there are very few names that stir the sea quite like Taylor Jean. This Viking Convertible, which is 62 feet in length, is a unique and exceptional tournament yacht. It is sleek and powerful, and it is helmed by a crew that lives and breathes the wide sea. It is a story that is unfolding. From the 28th through the 31st of May 2025, it will once again be the center of attention at the 2nd Annual Walker's Cay Blue Marlin Open, which is widely considered to be one of the most anticipated fishing competitions in the Bahamas. A Yacht Built for Glory Whenever Taylor Jean arrives at a marina, it is difficult to avoid staring at her. It is a beast that was built for speed and precision, as evidenced by its sleek lines, towering outriggers, and twin MTU motors that produce 2002 horsepower each. On the other hand, once you climb onboard, you will experience something else: a sense of purpose. Rather than being only a machine for sport fishing, this vessel serves as a floating home for a group of people who have become like family. The current Taylor Jean, which first embarked in 2022, was designed with a single objective in mind, to strive for greatness. It is capable of performing with elegance and efficiency, whether it is traveling through the waters of the Bahamas at a speed of 36 knots or managing a hot bite on the tournament circuit. The Crew Behind the Legend What truly sets Taylor Jean apart isn't just its speed, its engineering, or its tournament record, it's the heartbeat of the boat, the people on board. Behind the polished teak, cutting-edge electronics, and twin MTU engines is a crew bound not just by a love for the ocean but by a shared spirit of competition, trust, and grit. Every line cast, every fish fought, every mile cruised, and it's the crew that brings it to life. Blaine Birch, a former collegiate lacrosse player with an unmistakable competitive edge, is currently serving as the captain of the crew. In every excursion, Blaine brings his keen instincts and his ability to lead with composure, guiding his group with self-assurance and a sense of togetherness. Ken Hager, the owner, is also present, and he is not only the one who finances the dream. He is a living example. This crew is more than just a squad because it includes long-time teammates such as Dave McKendrick and Jarrett Birch (yep, Blaine's brother). There's a rhythm to this crew, one built on years of early mornings, high-stakes moments, and the kind of trust you can only earn at sea. They've celebrated wins, pushed through quiet days, and built a friendship that runs deeper than most tides. And tucked into their routine is a little superstition that's become a legend among those who know them, before every tournament, someone scatters a handful of Lucky Charms into the water. No speeches. No ceremony. Just a quiet nod to tradition, a ritual that feels half superstition, half inside joke, and all heart. Maybe it's luck. Perhaps it's just who they are. Either way, it's worked pretty well so far. A Track Record That Speaks for Itself Taylor Jean has been in the winner's circle for quite some time. They finished in third place at the White Marlin Open in 2023, earning a total of 665 points. This is an impressive accomplishment in an event where the competition is just as fierce as the fish themselves. They then followed that up with an equally impressive performance in 2024, which resulted in them matching for third place in the Billfish release division with 770 points. The yacht has also built a curious streak-claiming top finishes at The MidAtlantic every odd-numbered year since 2017. That kind of consistency speaks to more than just skill. It speaks to tenacity, preparation, and a team that knows how to rise when the stakes are highest. What's Coming: The 2025 Walker's Cay Blue Marlin Open Now, all eyes are on Walker's Cay, which has been meticulously renovated and redesigned to become a crown jewel in the Bahamas. In addition to being famous for its deep-water drop-offs and legendary fishing, Walker's is the ideal location for a Sportfishing Tournament that combines the excitement of competition with the sophistication of the past. This is not your typical dockside competition, the Walker's Cay SFC Blue Marlin Open is unlike any other. This event celebrates sport as much as it honors tradition, featuring a full sit-down Captain's Dinner, an air-conditioned Awards Banquet, and spectacular ocean views. Taylor Jean's staff is already getting ready for the event, which includes adjusting the equipment, reviewing the charts, watching films from previous events, and, of course, making sure that the cereal boxes are stocked. From High Stakes to High Seas: Charter Services with Taylor Jean However, Taylor Jean is not only a dominant force in tournaments. In addition to that, it provides memorable charter fishing experiences for anyone interested in experiencing life at sea. It doesn't matter if you're looking for a day trip to go tuna fishing, a weekend vacation to go sailfish fishing, or just a chance to unplug with your loved ones and friends in opulent surroundings, the Taylor Jean experience will not disappoint. By putting themselves in the same shoes that champion anglers have worn, guests are accompanied by seasoned anglers, supplied with the best equipment available, and cruise onboard one of the most luxurious yachts in its category. Every charter is customized to the guest's level of experience if you are a dedicated offshore junkie or a first-timer to the underwater world. The Legacy Continues So, what is it about Taylor Jean that sets her apart? It may be the connection that exists between the members of the crew. It is the unwavering concentration. There is a possibility that it is the ideal combination of meticulous engineering and unbridled determination. It could be all of that and much more than that. There is one thing that can be said with absolute certainty: on May 28th, Taylor Jean will once again be in its element, slashing through the blue of the Bahamas and running after another opportunity to make history. Are they going to be successful in securing the big one at Walker's Cay this year? If previous competitions are any indication, keep a close eye on this boat and consider bringing a box of Lucky Charms with you. To reserve your own adventure, visit To follow along on the road to Walker's Cay, check out their Instagram: @taylorjean_sportfishing and @seabirdsac. You can also catch full coverage and updates on the tournament at as well as through media like the Miami Herald, which regularly spotlights standout moments from the world of competitive sportfishing. City, State: North Palm Beach, FloridaName: Kenneth HagerCompany Name: Taylor Jean FL, LLCEmail Address: ken@ Number: (908) 433-6487Website: SOURCE: Taylor Jean FL, LLC
CBS News
6 days ago
- General
- CBS News
Proposed tiny home to help homeless stirs controversy in Blaine
Tiny homes, also known as accessory dwelling units, are all the rage in some communities but that's not the case in Blaine, Minnesota. "There's no encampments in the north metro or anything like that, but there is, you know, homelessness is an issue," said Alex Pepin. Driven by faith and a need to help, Pepin hoped a four-year-old Blaine city code, allowing tiny homes on properties could fill a need. His idea is to temporarily house a family inside a yet to be built 600-square-foot tiny home in his backyard. "It would be families coming out of homelessness, so they would have gone through a program first," said Pepin. Pepin said he would work alongside area non-profits, helping families eventually find permanent housing. After word got out about Pepin's project, a backlash soon followed. Several concerned neighbors spoke out at an April city planning commission meeting. In May, Pepin's permit to build was denied, and the city of Blaine decided to start the process of putting a pause on all tiny homes for up to a year. That pause could be finalized in June. Several council members felt Pepin did not meet the intent of the ordinance. "Their ruling was based on the concerns from other people that were not necessarily grounded in fact or anything," said Pepin. Next door neighbor, Dave Hime, said the neighborhood yards are much too small for what Pepin wants to build. "This is a development of private homes. It was never intended to be anything else, not low income housing," Hime told the planning comission in April. In the meantime, Pepin is still figuring out next steps, including an appeal. "We're really trying to do this to just live out our lives as Christians, to help people that are in need, whether that's our family or people in need in the community," said Pepin.
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Taylor Jean Is Ready to Make Waves at the 2025 Walker's Cay Blue Marlin Open
NORTH PALM BEACH, FL / / May 27, 2025 / The world of offshore sport fishing is a very close-knit community, and there are very few names that stir the sea quite like Taylor Jean. This Viking Convertible, which is 62 feet in length, is a unique and exceptional tournament yacht. It is sleek and powerful, and it is helmed by a crew that lives and breathes the wide sea. It is a story that is unfolding. From the 28th through the 31st of May 2025, it will once again be the center of attention at the 2nd Annual Walker's Cay Blue Marlin Open, which is widely considered to be one of the most anticipated fishing competitions in the Bahamas. A Yacht Built for Glory Whenever Taylor Jean arrives at a marina, it is difficult to avoid staring at her. It is a beast that was built for speed and precision, as evidenced by its sleek lines, towering outriggers, and twin MTU motors that produce 2002 horsepower each. On the other hand, once you climb onboard, you will experience something else: a sense of purpose. Rather than being only a machine for sport fishing, this vessel serves as a floating home for a group of people who have become like family. The current Taylor Jean, which first embarked in 2022, was designed with a single objective in mind, to strive for greatness. It is capable of performing with elegance and efficiency, whether it is traveling through the waters of the Bahamas at a speed of 36 knots or managing a hot bite on the tournament circuit. The Crew Behind the Legend What truly sets Taylor Jean apart isn't just its speed, its engineering, or its tournament record, it's the heartbeat of the boat, the people on board. Behind the polished teak, cutting-edge electronics, and twin MTU engines is a crew bound not just by a love for the ocean but by a shared spirit of competition, trust, and grit. Every line cast, every fish fought, every mile cruised, and it's the crew that brings it to life. Blaine Birch, a former collegiate lacrosse player with an unmistakable competitive edge, is currently serving as the captain of the crew. In every excursion, Blaine brings his keen instincts and his ability to lead with composure, guiding his group with self-assurance and a sense of togetherness. Ken Hager, the owner, is also present, and he is not only the one who finances the dream. He is a living example. This crew is more than just a squad because it includes long-time teammates such as Dave McKendrick and Jarrett Birch (yep, Blaine's brother). There's a rhythm to this crew, one built on years of early mornings, high-stakes moments, and the kind of trust you can only earn at sea. They've celebrated wins, pushed through quiet days, and built a friendship that runs deeper than most tides. And tucked into their routine is a little superstition that's become a legend among those who know them, before every tournament, someone scatters a handful of Lucky Charms into the water. No speeches. No ceremony. Just a quiet nod to tradition, a ritual that feels half superstition, half inside joke, and all heart. Maybe it's luck. Perhaps it's just who they are. Either way, it's worked pretty well so far. A Track Record That Speaks for Itself Taylor Jean has been in the winner's circle for quite some time. They finished in third place at the White Marlin Open in 2023, earning a total of 665 points. This is an impressive accomplishment in an event where the competition is just as fierce as the fish themselves. They then followed that up with an equally impressive performance in 2024, which resulted in them matching for third place in the Billfish release division with 770 points. The yacht has also built a curious streak-claiming top finishes at The MidAtlantic every odd-numbered year since 2017. That kind of consistency speaks to more than just skill. It speaks to tenacity, preparation, and a team that knows how to rise when the stakes are highest. What's Coming: The 2025 Walker's Cay Blue Marlin Open Now, all eyes are on Walker's Cay, which has been meticulously renovated and redesigned to become a crown jewel in the Bahamas. In addition to being famous for its deep-water drop-offs and legendary fishing, Walker's is the ideal location for a Sportfishing Tournament that combines the excitement of competition with the sophistication of the past. This is not your typical dockside competition, the Walker's Cay SFC Blue Marlin Open is unlike any other. This event celebrates sport as much as it honors tradition, featuring a full sit-down Captain's Dinner, an air-conditioned Awards Banquet, and spectacular ocean views. Taylor Jean's staff is already getting ready for the event, which includes adjusting the equipment, reviewing the charts, watching films from previous events, and, of course, making sure that the cereal boxes are stocked. From High Stakes to High Seas: Charter Services with Taylor Jean However, Taylor Jean is not only a dominant force in tournaments. In addition to that, it provides memorable charter fishing experiences for anyone interested in experiencing life at sea. It doesn't matter if you're looking for a day trip to go tuna fishing, a weekend vacation to go sailfish fishing, or just a chance to unplug with your loved ones and friends in opulent surroundings, the Taylor Jean experience will not disappoint. By putting themselves in the same shoes that champion anglers have worn, guests are accompanied by seasoned anglers, supplied with the best equipment available, and cruise onboard one of the most luxurious yachts in its category. Every charter is customized to the guest's level of experience if you are a dedicated offshore junkie or a first-timer to the underwater world. The Legacy Continues So, what is it about Taylor Jean that sets her apart? It may be the connection that exists between the members of the crew. It is the unwavering concentration. There is a possibility that it is the ideal combination of meticulous engineering and unbridled determination. It could be all of that and much more than that. There is one thing that can be said with absolute certainty: on May 28th, Taylor Jean will once again be in its element, slashing through the blue of the Bahamas and running after another opportunity to make history. Are they going to be successful in securing the big one at Walker's Cay this year? If previous competitions are any indication, keep a close eye on this boat and consider bringing a box of Lucky Charms with you. To reserve your own adventure, visit To follow along on the road to Walker's Cay, check out their Instagram: @taylorjean_sportfishing and @seabirdsac. You can also catch full coverage and updates on the tournament at as well as through media like the Miami Herald, which regularly spotlights standout moments from the world of competitive sportfishing. City, State: North Palm Beach, FloridaName: Kenneth HagerCompany Name: Taylor Jean FL, LLCEmail Address: ken@ Number: (908) 433-6487Website: SOURCE: Taylor Jean FL, LLC View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
