Dear Mayor Coleman,
I support a strong Parkland Dedication ordinance. Please encourage the City Council to amend the proposed draft to make it stronger.
The percentages proposed are substantially below those of our neighbors and need to be raised. If we want to be competitive in today’s global marketplace, we need to provide the kind of park amenities that taxpayers are looking for and that our neighboring communities are funding. I support 12% parkland dedication at platting and permitting.
The current ordinance, as drafted, is not adequate. There are several fundamental issues that need to be addressed before it would be a good policy.
I support a strong ordinance to increase Saint Paul’s investment in its parks to a reasonable level of funding. Parks are not only an environmental asset but are a good financial investment by elevating real estate prices and thereby raising tax revenue. They foster community connectedness, address equity issues when accessible to all and bolster mental and physical health. Healthier citizens also decrease healthcare spending, saving governments and employers money, another economic benefit.
Please support a strong Parkland Dedication ordinance.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
