Motion by Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky

February 8, 2000

MOTION BY SUPERVISOR ZEV YAROSLAVSKY

California's state, regional and local parks serve as recreational, social and cultural centers for California's communities, offering important venues for youth enrichment and safety, community identity, as well as protection of natural and historic sites, parklands, and open space.

In recent years, however, the state's commitment to public parks has dwindled, and while California residents have increased their visits to state and local parks, funding for rehabilitation, acquisition and development has failed to keep pace.

As a state known for its magnificent natural resources of open space, mountains, rivers, forests and coastline - as well as an urban state projected to grow by some 18 million people over the next 20 years - it's imperative that we maintain our investment in public park and recreation facilities to ensure our continued economic prosperity and the highest quality of life.

The last statewide park bond measure was approved in 1988. This year, Proposition 12 - the Safe Neighborhood Parks, Clean Water, Clean Air and Coastal Protection Bond Act of 2000 - would provide $2.1 billion for state and local park projects to preserve our natural heritage and permit urban areas to expand much needed recreation facilities to serve children, youth, seniors and families.

I, THEREFORE MOVE THAT the Board of Supervisors officially express its support for Prop. 12 on the March 7, 2000 ballot, and communicate to the 88 cities of Los Angeles County the Board's support for this important measure.