Preserving green spaces is absolutely essential for water quality, air quality, and the quality of the country side. Simply put, the water system is integrated with the earth. When you replace green space with impervious surfaces, it will result in a decreased quality of ground water, which affects us all. The paved over land is almost never reclaimed.

Just as important, the resulting sprawl will cause increased traffic, a decrease in air quality, and the destruction of the rural landscape. Dane County is a beautiful place, and we have an obligation to preserve it for current and future generations.

We understand that it is important that the county board be frugal with the public's money. The county board has very limited purchases planned in 2009, and is likely to resume purchases in 2010 when the economy is likely to improve.

In addition, the county board rejected a proposal to purchase part of a farm at an inflated price for the Ice Age Trail. Progressive Dane members in the community and Progressive Dane supervisors took the lead in raising questions about this transaction. The proposed price to the county was twice the price of a recent private transaction and did not even include all the development rights on the farm.

The county board has shown itself to be a responsible steward of the public funds while at the same time doing an excellent job with land conservation.

In conclusion, Progressive Dane urges the Dane County Board to continue to be responsible stewards of both public funds and the environment. Both are critical to good government and the future of Dane County.

Progressive Dane is an independent political party located in Dane County. Progressive Dane unapologetically stands for land conservation, clean air, clean water, responsible transportation policies, progressive economic development, a strong public education system, and open and accountable government. In short, we are focused on making Dane County a better place for everyone -- no exceptions.