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example, and not spending money for recreation as the Taxpayers' Association recommends. He felt the priorities for purchasing the Oslo property were to protect the Indian River Lagoon, protect the water table, to generate marine life, and to keep mosquitos down. Mr. Putnam believed a good case could be made that these four very different purposes are better served by keeping the public out. Mr. Putnam emphasized that the public has spoken and none of us has the right to alter the effect after the vote. From the very beginning, it was suggested that other bodies, both private and public, might contribute to certain purchases and it would be highly improper to change the vote of this Commission on any acquisition question. If a member of the Commission had to file a conflict of interest, it is possible that there could be a 2-2 vote, which would make it impossible for the County to move ahead in a constructive way. In conclusion, Mr. Putnam stressed that future generations would be much better served if we proceed in the way that was authorized by the bond issue. Rob Walsh, Sunset Drive, remarked on the high amount budgeted for Parks & Recreation and asked how many acres the County has in parks. Chairman Bird estimated that 900-1000 acres were being used for recreation, including the golf courses. Mr. Walsh felt that golf courses were another matter. He understood that the County has 450 acres in 19 parks, that Vero Beach has 110 acres in 16 parks and that Sebastian and Fellsmere have 11 and 4 parks, respectively, for a total of 50 parks and 1000 acres without golf courses. He maintained that the ratio of people using the parks to the amount of acres available is too high. He opposed the use of many of these environmentally sensitive lands for recreation when the intent of the people was to have them saved in pristine condition. He challenged the Board to put a moratorium on any recreational improvements to these lands until a survey is made of the taxpayers to see who is using what facilities. Mr. Walsh urged the Board to strongly keep in mind that the only endangered species here is the taxpayer. Chairman Bird really believed that the majority of the taxpayers in the referendum understood that we were going to spend the $26 million along with some matching grants. He also believed that people realized that whenever possible these lands were to be made available to the public for passive recreation. He felt we are proceeding with that intent and that we should continue in that direction. Commissioner Eggert felt the statements made today are well taken and need to be considered at all times. P/ L_SEP 14 IM BOOK 90 FAE5 28