Wildlife_habitat

1:17 (audience applauding) Today I'll share with you the great work that we are doing in the community, some of our accomplishments as well as some of the challenges and how you can get involved with county government. A big part of being able to enjoy our natural open areas is to make sure that we protect them. The county's Legacy Lands Program helps preserve, protect and restore open space in our community. And last year we celebrated our 40th anniversary of the program. In 1985, the county commissioners at that time adopted the State Conservation Futures Levy, which funds the Legacy Lands acquisitions. The program has protected and restored 5,500 acres of natural open space by acquiring properties

2:12 throughout the county on every major lake and stream system. Legacy Lands protects critical fish and wildlife habitat, preserves forests and shorelines, conserves agricultural lands and provides recreational opportunities. We are fortunate to have this true legacy that is provided for our community. Another significant anniversary that we celebrated last year was the 30th anniversary of the Neighborhood Outreach Program. The program was established in 1995 to partner with neighborhood associations to build community and to improve communications in the community. Neighborhood associations serve as a connection between the county and our residents. They help us keep the public informed on things like the comprehensive plan, road construction projects, new parks, development projects and so much more.

3:12 Feedback from the neighborhood associations helps inform the staff and the council. As Councilor Young earlier this year said, "Neighborhoods provide a deep value to our community. They are the backbone of our community."