Dozens of people shared their thoughts about two proposals for affordable housing, both backed by Project Neighbors, at a Valparaiso Board of Appeals meeting. While the board went on to vote in favor of the variances for one of the projects and tie on the second, the story of one Valparaiso resident’s struggle resonated through both portions of the meeting Tuesday, which stretched more than three hours.

Paul Schreiner pulled out the fabled toolbox of Walt Reiner to hammer home several truths about his dear friend who died only days earlier.

Reiner was a rebel, a risk-taker, and a human rights crusader. He critiqued church sermons, challenged authority figures and kept a makeshift library in his bathroom. He had hope. He had heart. He had plans. And he pulled off project after project by cajoling, conniving and convincing others. Whatever it took to get things done.

aul Schreiner stood outside the new duplex at 551 and 553 S. Morgan Blvd. Sunday.

“This was the ugliest site in Valparaiso. It was an old shack and it had salvaged scrap metal in it,” he said, adding it burned down and he bought the lot last year.