Friends of the Eagan Core Greenway

on behalf of the Eagan Open Space Coalition


City Council Candidate Open Space Survey
Primary Election: Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Main Election: Tuesday, November 7, 2006



The Questions

Round One

1. How would you describe your overall perspective on open space as a community resource?

2. How would you distinguish yourself and your record regarding local open space preservation?

3. Would you support a local referendum which gives the citizens of Eagan the opportunity to participate in the preservation of a key local open space parcel under threat?

4. To what extent are you familiar with recently published studies which quantify the value of open space? To what extent would these findings influence your decisions during your term, should your campaign be successful?

One illustrative article is included here: The Value of Open Space.

Round Two

5. What steps would you take to lead in the preservation of open space in Eagan?

6. What are top three criteria you would consider in deciding whether to preserve open space?

7. In your view, what are the three most compelling reasons for preserving open space?

8. To what lengths would you be willing to go to defend the City's Comprehensive Plan, its existing open space allocations, and its zoning?

Another illustrative and contemporary article (from this month's National Geographic) is included here: Saving our Great Places.

The Mayoral Candidates

(City Council Candidates are listed farther down)

The Answers


Cyndee Fields

Address: 4725 Weston Hills Drive, Eagan, MN 55123
Phone: (952)-270-3093
E-mail: CyndeeFields4Mayor@comcast.net
Web Site: http://CyndeeFields.com

(1) How would you describe your overall perspective on open space as a community resource?

Ensuring open space for the community enhances the quality of life for its citizens.

(2) How would you distinguish yourself and your record regarding local open space preservation.

I believe actions, speak louder than words. Over the past 6 years I have worked to accomplish:

  1. Preservation of Thresher Fields while under attack to sell.
  2. The securing of conservation easements whenever appropriate on incoming site plans.
  3. The Caponi endeavor was finally completed - Supported completely
  4. The Eagan Core Greenway initiative - Supported acqustions
  5. Anderson Parcel and parcels on the west side of Patrick Eagan Park
  6. Supported the adoption of the 2020 park system plan.

(3) Would you support a local referendum which gives the citizens of Eagan the opportunity to participate in the preservation of a key local open space parcel under threat?

Outside property under litigation: Yes, let the people vote on acquiring parcels with the support of their vote. The parcels would need to be defined. Options would need to be secured before a referendum could pass. I wouldn't support a blank check referendum.

(4)To what extent are you familiar with recently published studies which quantify the value of open space? To what extent would these findings influence your decisions during your term, should your campaign be successful.

My knowledge area is broad, published studies are useful tools, what I believe is you need to meet your local needs first. Our survey results indicate Open Space as being an important concern - paying for it is something we all need to think about. When elected Mayor, I believe we need to continue to "think outside the box" when it comes to these issues, in order to continue Eagan's quality of life.

(5) What steps would you take to lead in the preservation of open space in Eagan?

I would continue the partnership with our community groups dedicated to the preservation of open space. We have strong civic organizations that have done an excellent job working with the city to preserve open space.

(6) What are top three criteria you would consider in deciding whether to preserve open space?

The first factor is the parcel of property itself, how does this parcel fit into the city's master plan. Second, would this parcel be a passive parcel or active parcel and third, how will it be funded?

(7) In your view, what are the three most compelling reasons for preserving open space?

Three compelling reasons why the preservation of open space is important is that: open space enhances our quality of life, open space is a living legacy for our children and their children, and open space adds to the beauty of our city. These are not only three reasons to preserve open space but are three reasons that open space makes Eagan a great place to live and three reasons that open space adds to the value of every property in Eagan.

(8) To what lengths would you be willing to go to defend the City's Comprehensive Plan, its existing open space allocations, and its zoning?

We must be willing to fight for our right, as a city, to zone our city as we see fit. Our city's forefathers planned out our city in a way that benefits everyone, such as keeping industrial to the north and residential to the south, which minimizes the effect of airport noise on residents and reduces truck traffic in residential neighborhoods. In a civilized society you must have rules and if we allow a judge to arbitrarily throw out our rules then the city's rules become moot and we would have no protection for one of our largest investments, our homes. Remember that good rules make good neighbors.


Mike Maguire

Address: 3325 Wren Lane, Eagan, MN 55121
Phone: (651)-688-3519
E-mail: Mike@MaguireforMayor.org
Web Site: www.MaguireforMayor.org

(1) How would you describe your overall perspective on local open space as a community resource?

I believe open space is a critical ingredient in the recipe for successful communities. The City of Eagan demonstrates the point. Eagan has been a leader among communities making proactive investments to insure citizens have access to a mix of open spaces from an extensive network of neighborhood and community parks to the conservation and preservation of natural lands like Patrick Eagan Park and the Caponi Art Park. Big and small, these investments provide space for citizens to come together and form stronger community connections to one another. Whether individual citizens actively make use of these spaces or not, we all benefit from their presence in what it says about our community and our sense of shared priorities. Access to open spaces is a critical community resource that must be invested in and prudently balanced against other important community resources to round-out and strengthen our community.

(2) How would you distinguish yourself and your record regarding open space preservation?

The preservation and acquisition of open spaces, specifically development of an Eagan Core Greenway, has been one of my priority issues as a member of the Eagan City Council. As a candidate for the Council, I voiced my personal support for the Dakota County Land Preservation Referendum and my belief that the additional tax burden would ultimately provide good value to taxpayers. On the Council, I worked hard to resolve last-minute hurdles and finalize the acquisition of the so-called Anderson Parcel. One of two Council Members on the Caponi Art Park Acquisition Committee, I was strongly committed to ending decades of failed efforts and instrumental in the successful preservation of the 60-acre art park. Presently I serve as the city's representative on the Caponi Art Park Board. I've been a part of a Council that has consistently listed preservation of open spaces among its top goals; been accessible to and forged productive relationships with citizens concerned about open spaces and management of our natural resources; and been one of the most ardent voices on the Council in support of open space preservation efforts.

(3) Would you support a local referendum which gives the citizens of Eagan the opportunity to participate in the preservation of key local open space parcels under threat?

I could support a local referendum, or other funding mechanism, to generate resources for the city's priority-based acquisition and preservation of open spaces. If Eagan is going to continue to successfully address the open space needs of our community we need to be well-planned and intentional about what our open space goals are and what public and private interests we can partner with to achieve those goals in a balanced and cost-effective manner. That's why I've been so supportive of the effort to define a vision for the Eagan Core Greenway, identify critical parcels, and work with willing landowners on acquisition and assembly. I fear that the alternative approach, responding to perceived crisis situations and "buying parcels out of crisis," runs the very real risk of inordinately consuming limited resources and undermining long-term open space objectives.

(4) To what extent are you familiar with recently published studies which quantify the value of local open space? To what extend would these findings influence your decisions during your term, should your campaign be successful?

Recent studies showing the value of local open spaces, particularly those suggesting the relationship between access to open spaces and property values, are confirmed by our experience in Eagan. Research from Decision Resources Ltd. finds that buyers are willing to pay more for homes that are in walking distance of an open space such as a park, wooded area or wetlands. A core principle of Eagan's park system planning is that Eagan citizens and homes will be located within walking distance to a neighborhood park and for the most part that principle has been achieved community-wide. Additionally, large portions of preserved natural lands supported by the state, the county, and the city, supplement these parks and make Eagan citizen's access to a range of natural resources second to none in the Twin Cities area. It is no coincidence that Eagan is recognized across the state for its management of natural resources and that Eagan homeowner's property values are also among the highest in state. As a council member I have been committed to this tradition in our community and as Mayor I would continue that commitment through the implementation of the 2020 Parks Master Plan building on our past success to innovatively meet and balance the challenges of the future.

(5) What steps would you take to lead in the preservation of open space in Eagan?

As Mayor I will work with the Council and city staff to identify appropriate preservation opportunities and the funding mechanism(s) through which we, as a community, can participate in both public and private partnerships to preserve undeveloped land and open spaces.

Properties and parcels would need to be assessed in terms of their potential for preservation considering, among other factors, property owner interest in preservation, cost of long-term preservation, and a parcel's ecological & habitat values. In short, we need to develop price tag and priority based plan.

Finally I'd advocate that the voters get the opportunity to provide their feedback on the plan by voting on funding for the plan. My personal disposition is to an initiative similar to what I understand the City of Woodbury has done developing a fund for the acquisition of open spaces generally.

(6) What are top three criteria you would consider in deciding whether to preserve open space?

My hope would be to see a point system for prioritizing properties much like Dakota County's Farmland and Natural Area Preservation Program (FNAP).

Eagan and its taxpayers have a vested interest in that fund and in the interest of fiscal responsibility I would suggest any criteria should be developed with an eye to leveraging additional public and private resources wherever and whenever possible starting with FNAP funds.

The FNAP evaluates and prioritizes natural areas by awarding points on a dozen different criteria. The most heavily weighted items are ecological value, landowner participation and public access and value. These seem consistent with the balance between value for open space and fiscal prudence that I would hope we could achieve.

These three criteria make a good starting point but hardly the end all --- Water quality enhancements, ability to leverage additional resources (private as well as public), and traditional uses should also factor into consideration.

(7) In your view, what are the three most compelling reasons for preserving open space?

The first and foremost is the ecological value that protecting open spaces has on preserving plant and animal habitat that could become endangered if not rarely seen. Additionally, in a developed community like ours where water quality management is an increasing challenge, open spaces make a significant contribution to storm water and water quality management by encouraging natural infiltration. Secondly, open spaces make a contribution to the quality of life for our citizens by providing passive recreation opportunities that separate us from the day-to-day noise and activities that seemingly speed up our lives. Finally, the aesthetic value of open spaces has an economic benefit not only increasing the value of close by residential properties, but also creating a quality of life that attracts businesses and employees to our city.

(8) To what lengths would you be willing to go to defend the City's Comprehensive Plan, its existing open space allocations, and its zoning?

I support the comprehensive planning process, local community control and the City's current Comprehensive Plan & zoning regulations. I have strongly supported all legal means to preserving the integrity of them and would do the same as mayor. The combination of the Minnesota Supreme Court's rulings in Mendota Heights and in the future on the Carriage Hills case may have a significant impact on defining the lengths to which any city official can or cannot go in defending their city's plans. Seeking legislative changes to bolster local community control could become necessary. However, in the meantime I will continue to support changes to zoning laws and the comprehensive plan that better define and protect open spaces in Eagan.


City Council Candidates

The Answers


Buzz Anderson

Address: 633 Hackmore Drive, Eagan, MN 55123
Phone: (651)-456-5730 (Home) / (651)-227-6631 (Office) / (651)-307-4994 (Cell)
E-mail: andersonrus@comcast.net
Web Site: None Listed

(1) How would you describe your overall perspective on local open space as a community resource?

It is my opinion that open space is key to quality of life for every community. I also know that after having gone to over 1,300 doors, that it is also a high priority for Eagan citizens. It is also a fact that there are development pressures as well. That exists in every city and that is important too. The key is to keep the two in pespective. That is certainly my goal.

(2) How would you distinguish yourself and your record regarding open space preservation?

I have no record regarding local open space development. But, I do have a record as a former Member of the Minnesota House of Representatives. I was, during my tenure, the Chief author of the Minnesota Regional Rail Authority Act, a law intended to protect abandoned railroad rights of way, either for necessary recreational trails or for locally sponsored transporation rights of way, that would prevent the impostion of more condemnation of property. In retropsect, it has turned out to be a good law, opening up great deal of recreational trails around Minnesota along with needed transportation rights of way.

(3) Would you support a local referendum which gives the citizens of Eagan the opportunity to participate in the preservation of key local open space parcels under threat?

Absolutely, yes. In fact, Eagan residents need to have a direct voice in this issue. It is a costly venture and taxpayers need to have a say in the matter.

(4) To what extent are you familiar with recently published studies which quantify the value of local open space? To what extend would these findings influence your decisions during your term, should your campaign be successful?

I know from talking to many people that the issue of open space is a high priority. I have also followed this issue closely and have communicated with local staff at the city regarding options for the city. I understand the conflict that the city is encountering between the owners of Carriage Hills and Parkview who apparently wish to attempt to open up their property for development.

First, I understand the need to follow the comprehensive plan set up by the city. I also understand feelings of the owners of both Carriage Hills and Parkview to want to develop their land. Eagan must keep a balance between the rights of property owners and the need to remain committed to the Comprehensive Plan and the need to preserve open space.

If you need clarification on any of my responses, please feel free to call any of the phone numbers (listed above).

(5) What steps would you take to lead in the preservation of open space in Eagan?

Admittedly, I don't have a great deal of expertise on the issue. Having said that, I do know from door knocking on hundreds and hundreds of doors that open is high priority for many Eagan residents. If elected, I would work closely with the many open space preservation groups in the city as possile. Several key groups already exist including:

Friends of the Eagan Core Greenway, Friends of Lebanon Hills (Regional Park), Caponi Art Park & Learning Center, Carriage Hills Coalition, Friends of the Diamond T Property, The Christensen Addition Neighborhood Coalition, Weston Hills and Pine Edge Neighborhood for Open Space.

I know other non-profits exist to provide advice and possible financial assistance including the Trust for Public Land, McKnight Foundation, Blandin Foundation, Legislative Commission on Minnesota Resources and others. I will have an open door and an open mind on this issue. I do believe it is the obligation of city council members to seek out and review the advice and counsel of those who have the passion and expertise on the challenge to preserve open space.

Secondly, I would use my contacts within the County and School District to encourage those jurisdictions to keep designated open space permanent.

(6) What are top three criteria you would consider in deciding whether to preserve open space?

The first criteria is to make it clear that open space is a priority for the city. It should be goal of the city to attempt to preserve as much remaining open space as possible.

Secondly, with so little undeveloped space left in Eagan and with the demands on that space for housing and business development, the land will be at a premium. Every council member has a fiduciary responsibility to the taxpayer so cost remains a very significant factor.

Thirdly, keeping balance with the other needs of the city is important. Housing demands for all types of housing will have to be taken into consideration as more people move into the Metro area and as demands for an aging population increase. Eagan housing development standards need to be maintained so as to create, preserve and enhance as much open space, parks, and trails as possible. Business development demands will also be high as the city opens its doors to new business development. Business development is imporatnt and brings higher revenues to the city which gives us the luxury to even have a conversation about more open but it remains important to be creative so as to, in this as well, create, preserve and enhance as much open space, wet lands, parks and trails as possible.

(7) In your view, what are the three most compelling reasons for preserving open space?

First, it is the right thing to do.

Secondly, it adds to quality of life. I have friends who have moved to this city because of its beauty, open space, parks and trails.

Thirdly, its part of the legacy we need to leave for those who come after us.

(8) To what lengths would you be willing to go to defend the City's Comprehensive Plan, its existing open space allocations, and its zoning?

This is a tough question. The Comprehensive Plan is extremely important but it would be unrealistic to say it should be defended at all costs. Once again, there is a fiduciary responsibilty on each elected official and they must be cognizant of that. The Supreme Court will have some say in this matter as well. In the Mendota [Heights] case, the High Court indicated that any city has a legitimate right to have preservation of open space as a goal, but the Court also warns that preserving open space at the expense of someone's private private property could be considered a regulatory taking. If the High Court takes that step, the price of preserving open space goes up. The city has limited resources and I would be reluctant to commit extensive amounts of city revenue to preservation of open space with a referenda.


Paul Bakken

Address: 697 Oxford Road, Eagan, MN 55123
Phone: (651)-331-1857
E-mail: BringBackBakken@comcast.net
Web Site: www.BringBackBakken.org

(1) How would you describe your overall perspective on open space as a community resource?

The purpose of any municipal government is to provide for the health, safety and welfare of its citizens. Open space is integral to all three, as quality open space has a direct, measurable impact on the air quality, water quality, and livability of a community. In my view, open space should be considered an important part of Eagan's key infrastructure, right along with roads, water, sewer, and public safety services.

(2) How would you distinguish yourself and your record regarding local open space preservation?

During my previous term on the City Council, I helped preside over one of the largest expansions of parkland and other open space in the history of Eagan. By working with other governmental and non-governmental agencies, I was able to help leverage Eagan's resources and protect these areas from undesirable development. Examples include, but are not limited to: Central Park, Thresher Fields, and Moonshine Park. Moreover, by working with other entities, I learned how to keep the City from having to shoulder the entire cost for these actions, thereby avoiding burdensome tax hikes. In a nutshell, I have an established track record of taking meaningful action to preserve open space.

(3) Would you support a local referendum that gives the citizens of Eagan the opportunity to participate in the preservation of a key, yet threatened, local open space parcel?

I definitely believe in giving the taxpayers a say in this matter, since a project of such magnitude would represent a significant financial commitment by the community. A referendum is probably the best mechanism, all things considered. Moreover, I would hope to work with interested stakeholders to craft clear and concise language for the referendum, so that people can make an informed choice.

(4) To what extent are you familiar with recently published studies that quantify the value of open space? To what extent would these findings influence your decisions during your term, should your campaign be successful?

I am somewhat familiar with the literature. I have read The Value of Open Space: Evidence from Studies of Non-Market Benefits by Virginia McConnell and Margaret Wells; The Economic Value of Open Space: A Review and Synthesis by Charles Fausold and Robert Lilieholm; Economics of Open Space Conservation by Paul Kerlinger; The Economic Value of Open Space: Implications for Land Use Decisions by Paul Anton; and The Economic Benefits of Open Space by Stephen Miller. Most of these papers were published fairly recently.

In any case, I suspect that they wouldn't so much influence my decisions, as they would confirm them. It is always nice to have hard data to back up one's principles!

(5) What steps would you take to lead in the preservation of open space in Eagan?

(a) I would make certain to work with other stakeholders, such as FOECG and the rest of the Open Space Coalition, to establish common definitions, define common goals, and form shared standards to act as a blueprint for collaborative action.

(b) I would advocate for an open space referendum at the appropriate time (which would be when I felt we could obtain the most meaningful impact from a successful referendum, since realistically we will only get one shot at it during the next four years).

(c) I would support the creation of a land protection plan, as well as the endowment of a land protection fund.

(d) I would make certain that our ordinances encourage the creation and preservation of green space in both residential and commercial redevelopment districts.

(e) I would try to incorporate a hybrid of hedonic pricing methods and stated preference methods into Eagan's process for making land use decisions.

(f) I would support a continuing community visioning process for our park system.

(6) What are top three criteria you would consider in deciding whether to preserve open space?

(a) Is the parcel adjacent to existing open space?

(b) Can we protect the parcel by purchasing or transferring development rights, acquiring an easement, or other some other alternative to fee simple acquisition?

(c) What is the balance between the cost of preservation and the benefits as discussed in question 7, below?

(7) In your view, what are the three most compelling reasons for preserving open space?

(a) Ecological: Improved air and water quality.

(b) Recreational: Access to a variety of open space amenities for residents.

(c) Economic: Increased net value to neighboring properties, avoided net costs of alternative development, and cost savings from better storm water management.

(8) To what lengths would you be willing to go to defend the City's Comprehensive Plan, its existing open space allocations, and its zoning?

I will act to the best of my abilities to protect our community plans, within the bounds of what is legal and ethical.


Peggy Carlson

Address: 883 Betty Lane, Eagan, MN 55123
Phone: (651)-686-7400
E-mail: Carlson4CityCouncil@comcast.net
Web Site: www.Carlson4CityCouncil.com

(1) How would you describe your overall perspective on local open space as a community resource?

One of my main quests, as a council member, has been to preserve key parcels for open space. And I mean, "open space". Not open space with trails, shelter buildings, athletic fields, etc. (I have secured those along the way too.) But, I would love to see parcels left to nature, truly preserving them. As a resource, I feel open space is just as important as commercial and residential development. You must have a balance in land use to be able to say you have a "well-planned" community. Having breathing room is a huge community resource to boast about.

(2) How would you distinguish yourself and your record regarding local open space preservation?

My record speaks for itself. And actions do speak louder than words. I have been involved from the ground floor to make the vision become a reality. First, securing parcels on the west side of Patrick Eagan Park, then, the Anderson parcel. I was a committee member to secure Mr. Caponi's land. Furthermore, when the opportunity legally presents itself, I take the liberty to secure conservation easements on developing subdivisions to ensure a portion of the land will be left alone.

(3) Would you support a local referendum that gives the citizens of Eagan the opportunity to participate in the preservation of key local open space parcels under threat?

Generally speaking, I love well-defined referendums and do not support "blank check" referendums. I feel if an open space referendum were to be put before Eagan voters, the parcels should be defined and have willing sellers. Blank check referendums leave purchase decisions solely in the hands of a city council, which causes some citizens to feel duped when parcel(s) they wanted are left behind. Well-defined referendums give the people the right to have the final say on which parcels are part of the referendum through the power of their vote.

(4) To what extent are you familiar with recently published studies which quantify the value of local open space? To what extent would these findings influence your decisions during your term, should your campaign be successful?

I am familiar with the recent studies. But the bottom line is, as much as people say they want open space and studies indicate that it adds value to their community, the huge question remains---how much are you willing to be taxed for it? Owners are willing to sell, cities would love to buy, but the huge issue is funding it. Securing open space will continue to be very difficult unless the taxpayers agree to pay the high land prices for the few key undeveloped parcels left in Eagan.

(5) What steps would you take to lead in the preservation of open space in Eagan?

Because I believe a referendum would need to pass to secure the necessary funding to purchase more open space, I will continue to be proactive, instead of reactive, in the planning process. The council agreed with my request and directed the Park's Commission to begin laying out the groundwork for this opportunity. Also, I will continue to work cooperatively with our private partners and government agencies to keep our long-term greenway initiative an effective collaborative effort.

(6) What are top three criteria you would consider in deciding whether to preserve open space?

(a) Consider how the parcel benefits the city's overall land use and open space effort.

(b) With the limited funding dollars, evaluate the impact each available parcel would offer to the existing area and green space vision in its entirety.

(c) Consider the property's environmental attributes and conditions.

(7) In your view, what are the three most compelling reasons for preserving open space?

(a) Open space should be a designated official land use, I believe just as important as any other land use.

(b) The overall livability of a city depends on retaining breathing room so that natural settings throughout the community will continue to thrive harmoniously within a fully developed city.

(c) Once the land is developed---it's gone forever! Act now or forever hold your peace.

(8) To what lengths would you be willing to go to defend the City's Comprehensive Plan, its existing open space allocations, and its zoning?

I would continue to support that a super majority (4 out of 5 votes) is required to change an existing comprehensive guide designation. Remain strong when under pressure from developers threatening litigation should the council disagree with their request to change a comprehensive guide designation. Never consider selling publicly owned parks and open space for development. Define a "public open space" zoning classification. (I have already begun the process/research regarding this: workshop 10/10/2006). To avoid confusion on the long-term intent of specific parcels, I believe we need to decide whether a distinction between "public parks" and "public open space", with defined permitted uses for each, should become part of our zoning classifications and comp. guide plan.


Gary Hansen

Address: 1486 Thomas Lane, Eagan, MN 55122
Phone: (651)-454-1172
E-mail: GaryHansen@1stCounsel.com
Web Site: http://hansenforcouncil.org

(1) How would you describe your overall perspective on local open space as a community resource?

Preserving open space is an issue that will continue to be a priority for me as a city council member. Public surveys and opinions expressed by Eagan residents with whom I have visited reinforce our desire to preserve green and open space and provide for parks and trail systems for the enjoyment of all of our citizens. I support the City’s vision statement recognition of the importance of the natural environment to its citizens’ quality of life. Natural resources are valued assets to be preserved and enhanced for the enjoyment and well-being of the current and future generations. As a Planning Commission member, my decisions have been guided by the desire to protect natural resources, mitigate impacts on them, and attempt to enhance them whenever possible. My perspective in this area is outlined at my Web site listed above.

(2) How would you distinguish yourself and your record regarding local open space preservation?

My voting record on the Planning Commission demonstrates my commitment to preserving and protecting open space. I voted against the Lexington Ridge development adjoining the Eagan Core Greenway. I opposed the Diamond T property development as proposed primarily due to open space and environmental concerns. In the interest of preserving open space and consistent with the City’s Comprehensive Guide Plan designation of the Carriage Hills area as park space, I voted against its proposed development. I opposed a potential settlement with the owner and developer, and was pleased that the City successfully pursued its appeal of the district court decision. My positions on these issues clearly document my support of open space preservation.

(3) Would you support a local referendum which gives the citizens of Eagan the opportunity to participate in the preservation of key local open space parcels under threat?

I support active citizen involvement in helping to educate the public about the importance of environmental preservation and increasing awareness of environmental issues and concerns within the community. Citizen advocates also are needed to help assure that elected representatives give appropriate consideration to environmental issues that may arise in all matters upon which the elected body acts. A representative form of government that effectively operates in this manner should alleviate the need for special referendums. I would, however, support direct citizen involvement in a referendum on preservation of a key local open space parcel entailing the need for a major funding mechanism.

(4) To what extent are you familiar with recently published studies which quantify the value of local open space?

I am familiar with studies that assess the fiscal and economic implications of open space. These studies indicate that open space within walking distance of residential neighborhoods often increases property and tax values. This has significant implications for Eagan’s tax base and should help to guide future development and redevelopment decisions. I regularly monitor the Friends of the Eagan Core Greenway Web site for this type of information, and I am a subscriber to the E-group list to remain aware of open space and environmentally-related issues and activities. I will continue to utilize this information to assist in setting priorities that balance the need for open space with other objectives of importance to the residents of Eagan.

(5) What steps would you take to lead in the preservation of open space in Eagan?

Leadership begins with a vision. Eagan's vision statement recognizes the importance of the natural environment to its citizens' quality of life. I would reinforce this vision to encourage the community to be proactive and integrate open space into a broader plan, combining transportation and land use planning and zoning with land conservation, and guiding development in a manner that follows sensible growth patterns and protects areas that the community values most. Guided by Advisory Parks Commission and staff recommendations, I would evaluate remaining open space opportunities, determining citizens' support for preserving open space in these areas, assessing acquisition and related costs, and analyzing funding options. Throughout this process, I would give priority to ensuring that it involves all stakeholders and provides meaningful opportunities for citizens' involvement. The objectives of this effort will be to make scientifically sound conservation decisions, ensure the long-term preservation of valued open spaces and natural areas, and establish reasonable and affordable funding plans to meet immediate and ongoing financing needs.

(6) What are top three criteria you would consider in deciding whether to preserve open space?

The city needs to have clear priorities to guide open space preservation decisions so that each parcel under consideration can be evaluated based on how well it meets established criteria. The primary criteria that I would consider in deciding whether to preserve open space are:

(a) Location and treatment under the comprehensive guide plan. Proximity of the property in relation to lands that are already protected presents the opportunity to create larger blocks of protected lands and continuity with existing transportation corridors and trail connectivity. In addition, the property needs to be evaluated to determine if its preservation will further the goals of the comprehensive guide plan in coordination with the Eagan Core Greenway.

(b) Public support. Some areas or types of property may be more favored by the public than others (e.g., trees, water bodies, wildlife areas, park, recreation, and trail potential).

(c) Cost and funding. Landowners may be willing to provide very favorable terms in return for beneficial tax treatment, thus reducing the cost of acquisition to the taxpayers. Properties that qualify for grant funds also deserve priority, as do properties presenting low ongoing maintenance costs.

(7) In your view, what are the three most compelling reasons for preserving open space?

Protecting open space can create healthier, more livable, economically sound communities in the following ways:

(a) Open space protects public health and the environment. Open spaces provide opportunities for increased physical activities such as walking, hiking, jogging, biking, and other recreational activities that contribute to a healthier population. In addition, land use practices associated with development that result in impervious surfaces create runoff, which is a significant threat to water quality and other natural amenities.

(b) Open space can save communities money. Preservation of open space can reduce infrastructure and public service costs, especially those associated with residential development. Long-term economic advantages can be realized by communities that guide growth using land conservation and other smart-growth measures.

(c) Open space attracts home buyers. Studies indicate that home buyers often are willing to pay more for homes located close to open space, which benefits the community through higher property tax revenues.

(8) To what lengths would you be willing to go to defend the City's Comprehensive Plan, its existing open space allocations, and its zoning?

Flexibility is needed to adjust the comprehensive guide plan in certain transitional areas in response to changing circumstances. The core guidance, however, should be vigorously defended against wholesale changes that are not in the best interests of the community as we attempt to balance appropriate development with preservation of valued open space. For example, in the interest of preserving open space and consistent with the comprehensive guide plan designation of the Carriage Hills area as park space, I voted against its development as proposed to the Planning Commission. I did not favor a potential settlement with the owner and developer, and was pleased that the City successfully pursued its appeal of the district court decision. As a city council member, I will advocate defense of the comprehensive guide plan, existing open space, and zoning with the same conviction and fervor.



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