Agenda - Environmental Policy Board - 02/05/2007

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Chairperson McDilda stated that the Wetland Guidebook is about 90% complete. Chairperson McDilda asked the EPB members to come prepared with the final input for the Wetland Guidebook for the February EPB meeting. Environmental Coordinator Anderson requested that the revisions to the Do's and Don'ts for the front and back covers be emailed to him once completed so he can include it for the next meeting. Case 4: The Economic Value of Open Space Board Member Freeburg stated that he attended the Growing Green Expo. He noted that the study on the Economic Value of Open Space references local studies that relate to property valuation increases due to open space. He suggested there might be some interest in listening to a speaker on this subject. Board Member Max concurred that this subject matter fits in with the open space referendum idea. Board Member Bentz replied that his neighbors might not be interested in hearing a speaker talk about rising property values. He stated his neighborhood property taxes have doubled over the last three years due to rising values, and neighbors are unhappy about taxation. Chairperson McDilda stated that most people look at property ownership as an investment that increases in value over the years. He stated that as an investment, by the nature of the fact that there was an initial investment, it should grow in value. Board Member Bentz replied that most people like the wetland, but they don't like taxation. Board Member aids asked if the neighbors decided to move, what type of property would they likely purchase. He asked if they would want more open space, privacy, or less development around them. He stated that the neighbors would move away to something that they can't get away from, but in the long run it will cost more money to commute to work. Board Member Sibil ski stated that this topic leads into whether or not there would be support for a referendum for open space. Chairperson McDilda concurred that when researching a referendum there needs to be clarity about the elements that actually bring about taxation increases. He explained that people should understand that when something protects the environment and enhances property values at the same time, there is usually a reason for property tax increases. He explained that care should be taken when describing the value of wetlands to people. He explained that taxation increases cannot be attributed specifically to wetlands. Environmental Policy Board! January 8, 2006 Page 13 of 15