MINNEAPOLIS-After several years of 10% rent hikes, next year will see average rents go up 2% to 3% percent, according real estate experts. Increased supply and a slowing economy will keep increases down.

MINNEAPOLIS-The architectural firm hires Janeil Shambour as manager of general accounting and Larry Zangla as architectural plotter. Meanwhile, CRESA Partners promotes Kelly Kafer to marketing associate.

BLOOMINGTON, MN-Midwest Retail LLC, a venture between United Properties and Lutheran Brotherhood life insurance company, will focus on neighborhood shopping centers anchored by grocery stores.

MAPLEWOOD, MN-Setback from White Bear Avenue is the issue between Semper Development and the city. The developer wants to build a Walgreen's drug store 110 feet from the street, the council has approved 69 feet.

BROOKLYN CENTER, MN-The new facility gives the Toro distributor a larger product display and improved customer access in the new France Avenue Business Park II complex. The firmn also has an office in Fargo, ND.

APPLE VALLEY, MN-The company says its ninth store is its largest -- and the

ST. PAUL, MN-Mayoral candidate Jay Benanav has opposed a subsidy for the Downtown Dayton's store as well as a stadium tax proposal. He favors cleaning up brownfields and creating jobs.

MINNEAPOLIS-The Minnesota Vikings want a new stadium not a fixed-up Metrodome. They claim much of a $3-million improvement program benefits Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission offices.