>>>>> "EW" == Elizabeth Wielinski <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> writes:
EW> Joan Berthiaume and Ted Wirth wrote...
>>
>> The independence of the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board is the
>> reason they can protect these beautiful public spaces from the
>> priorities
>> of city business. It is our apathy for our legacy of open space and
>> our
>> lack
>> of understanding for the governance necessary to protect it, that
>> puts
>> our
>> park system at risk.
EW> Minneapolis is lucky to have an independent board. It keeps our
EW> parks from becoming just a small easily cut item in a mayors budget.
EW> It is why our parks are rated so highly. But an independent board is
EW> only as good as the people serving on it.
EW> I was recently at a meeting where the park district endorsement was
EW> almost pooh-poohed as being unimportant and that no one really cares
EW> who runs for those seats.
EW> I think this is the type of apathy that leads to park
EW> leadership that can play the role of developer instead of
EW> protecting our parks and green spaces. It could also lead to
EW> the board being dissolved and the parks becoming just a low
EW> priority in a city budget straining to meet police and fire
EW> needs. If we elect people who will shepherd our parks in the
EW> correct direction for the long term, involve the citizens in
EW> the process and do it in a financially prudent manner we will
EW> retain not only our high national standing but will keep the
EW> parks accessible to all.
I agree: We have met the enemy and he (or she) is us. If we watch
the Park Board and hold them accountable, then we will be far better
off than if we dissolve it and let the money be sapped away into the
usual desperate struggle to pay the bills. But if the city electorate
doesn't pay attention...
--
Robert P. Goldman
ECCO
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
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