7/7/1992 - Laserfiche WebLink

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J U L 07 1992 P Commissioner Bowman noted that if this does not pass, we will be spending the money faster and in larger amounts. With this bond issue, the people who are not here yet are also going to pay for this. The Chairman opened the public hearing and asked if anyone wished to be heard in this matter. Herndon Williams, member of the Land Acquisition Advisory Committee, wanted to clarify that we will not spend $26 million either through a referendum or through millage. There is no other requirement except one that the Commission lays on itself to buy five thousand acres. The requirement of the Comp Plan is 750 acres and that does not cost $26 million, and in fairness to the voters, they ought to know this. Commissioner Wheeler did not think the brochure or the referendum question indicates that we will spend $26 million. We will spend whatever is necessary and we do not imply otherwise. Bill Koolage, 11 Vista Gardens Trail, stated that he could not support this plan. He was concerned with this bond issue coming at a time when the economy is so bad. He criticized the comment that this expense will be paid for in the future, because we are paying now for expenditures that have been made in the past. He gave examples of land acquired by the County that cannot be used, and urged the Commission to appropriate the money for the minimum amount and not go out for $26 million. He realized that one argument is that interest rates are low, but he felt that even though we may have to pay a higher price at some future time, we may be better able to afford it then. Mr. Koolage was opposed to the bond issue and promised to do all he can -to see that it is defeated if it goes to a referendum. Commissioner Wheeler respected Mr. Koolage's opinion, but explained that this issue will go to the voters. Mr. Koolage objected to the publicity notices which will be sent out. John Orcutt, 425 12th Place S.E., urged the Board to proceed with the referendum. He felt it is very important to show voters the advantages and disadvantages of acquiring these properties. One obvious disadvantage is the cost, but he felt it is an investment in our quality of life and green space. He saw quality of life as a selling point to attract businesses to our county. He pointed out that there are not a lot of buyers in the real estate market now, interest rates are down, and we should be taking advantage of that situation. He reported that in 15 other counties people voted for this type referendum because they want to protect their homes and their communities and their quality of life. He 44 M M