Open Space Preservation Funding

Appreciated the grant awards on the agenda but urged increased county investment in open space to prevent losing ground to development.

Thanked the board for preservation grants and encouraged full funding for the preservation partnership program in the next budget.

Highlighted the importance of preservation partnership grants in protecting waterways, trails, and working farms.

Pointed out that 2026 marked the first time in over 35 years without new open space funding and urged full funding restoration in 2027.

Urged the commissioners to recommit to consistent annual support for open space to address development pressure and flooding.

Advocated for open space restoration and highlighted the flood mitigation benefits of undeveloped land during major storms.

Praised local poll workers for their integrity and advocated for continued county support of open space habitat restoration.