Title
To endorse Issue 1 and support the 2009 Metro Parks levy.
Body
WHEREAS, each year, more than six million people enjoy a visit to a Metro Park; and
WHEREAS, operating clean, well-maintained and safe parks provides a free public service for the children and families in Franklin County to gather and appreciate natural areas and wildlife; and
WHEREAS, Metro Parks' current $.65 million, ten year levy expires at the end of 2009; and
WHEREAS, during the previous ten year levy period, Metro Parks completed every project promised, including the addition of five new parks, the acquisition of more than 7,500 acres of land, provided educational programming to more than 50,000 school children, developed programs for senior citizens and enhanced protection of wildlife; and
WHEREAS, Franklin County voters will have the opportunity to approve a $.75 million property tax on the May 5, 2009 ballot, which would cost the owner of a $100,000 home only about $23 a year or about six cents a day; and
WHEREAS, with a vote FOR Issue 1 on May 5, Metro Parks will be able to operate and maintain the current 15 Metro Parks while providing a wide variety of programs and opportunities that encourage physical and social health, relaxation and enjoyment of the natural world, including the construction of a nature center in the Darby Watershed and increased programming with Central Ohio schools; and
WHEREAS, a vote FOR Issue 1 will also allow Metro Parks to acquire land and restore habitats to further protect the rare species of Big Darby Creek, secure land adjacent to existing parks, and purchase land and open three new parks along Rocky Fork Creek, Little Walnut Creek and the Scioto River; and
WHEREAS, the continued success of our areas parks and integral to moving our city forward; now, therefore
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS:
That the Columbus City Council does hereby endorse Issue 1 and strongly urges the residents of Fran...
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