Best of 2012

Pillsbury Commons Trips Before the Finish Line: No. 2 Story of the Year

One of the most read and talked about topics in Richfield's recent history.

Richfield Patch covered a lot of different stories, topics and events throughout 2012, but there were a few that stood out as the most interesting, important or possibly infamous to our readers. The following is the No. 2 story of the year. *** Pillsbury Commons. While it's a project that's long over, the mere mention of it can still evoke passionate discussions, sighs and grumbles among Richfield residents. The affordable housing complex, which was in the works for more than two years, was officially laid to rest in July after months of back and forth between the city and the developer, Ron Clark Construction & Design—and the city and residents. The most outspoken residents opposed the development, citing increases in traffic, …

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Ron Clark Releases Statement on Failed Pillsbury Commons Project

The developer said that while there is "no shortage of legal claims," he will not take action against the city.

The final blow to the proposed Pillsbury Commons development project came after the option agreement between the City of Richfield and developer Ron Clark expired June 30, 2012. Following the contract expiration, Clark did attempt to reinstate it, however, the city stood firm. Richfield Patch contacted the developer for comment on the failure of the project. Clark released the following statement to Patch through his attorney, Jim Susag, Thursday afternoon: Ron Clark Construction & Design (“Ron Clark”) began working with the City of Richfield and the HRA in 2009 on a potential development of the Pillsbury Avenue site (“Pillsbury Commons”).  After preliminary direction from the City Council, Ron Clark and the HRA entered into a Preliminary …

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