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. What steps would you take to lead in the preservation of open space in Dakota County?
4. What are top three criteria you would consider in deciding whether to preserve open space?
5. In your view, what are the three most compelling reasons for preserving open space?
6. What value do you see in the Dakota County Farmland and Natural Areas Program?
7. Do you think the program is worth continuing with additional funding?
(1) How would you describe your overall perspective on open space as a community resource?
Open space is needed for storm water runoff, flood plain preservation, healthy environment preservation around the landfill and refinery, historic preservation, and scenic beauty!
(2) How would you distinguish yourself and your record regarding local open space preservation.
We have preserved most of Southern Inver Grove Heights into 2.5 acre lots or greater. This area is very hilly and we have as a council since I began 20 years ago decided to keep water and sewer from going into this area thus preserving this area its pristine natural state!
(3) What steps would you take to lead in the preservation of open space in Dakota County?
See #1.
(4)What are top three criteria you would consider in deciding whether to preserve open space?
See #1. My basic three reasons for green space preservation [are that] I favor preservation of rolling hills/scenic valley areas/and quality forested areas. I am also one who would consider preserving unique habitat grasses and trees.
(5) In your view, what are the three most compelling reasons for preserving open space?
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?
Farm land is very important for habitat for birds, deer, and other animals. We cannot continue to build out in the south of Dakota County some of the finest farm land in the state.
(7) Do you think the program is worth continuing with additional funding?
Preservation funding is important. I don't think that Government should always be the lead agency all the time. There are lot of private groups that will front this agenda and work with land owners. Hunters, historic preservation groups etc. I support their efforts!