Submitted by Christa Campbell and Sandi Friel, co-chairs of the Renew Our Land Bank committee.
In a huge win for protecting San Juan County’s critical resources and the public’s access to natural areas, County residents voted overwhelmingly, by a two-to-one margin, to continue supporting our Conservation Land Bank program through 2038.
Funded by a 1% Conservation REET (Real Estate Excise Tax) paid by property buyers, our Land Bank was created by local citizens in 1990. This year marks the third time that residents have approved its continued funding.
The Yes! vote means the Land Bank will continue to secure and restore important habitat, support local agriculture and safeguard access to many of the County’s most beautiful places. It also enables the 0.5% housing REET to continue to support affordable housing projects across the county.
Just as the citizens have shown their appreciation for the Land Bank’s important work, the Renew Our Land Bank committee extends our heartfelt thanks to the Trust for Public Land for its expert guidance, to the County Council for its unwavering support and to all the residents who voted yes.
We’re forever grateful to our amazing communications team who put together top-notch graphics and messaging (pro-bono!), and to our donors who made executing a winning campaign possible. To the San Juan Preservation Trust, the housing groups and all the endorsers, thank you for helping to amplify our message.
To our steering committee members and advisors who met faithfully for 11 months, we salute you for your generosity and steady commitment. To our dedicated district leaders, district team members and volunteers who organized events and conducted outreach across the islands, your impact will be felt for generations to come.
And to the staff and commissioners of the Conservation Land Bank, it was our pleasure to support your good work, and to help ensure you will continue to protect the quality of life in our islands.
For more information, contact Sandi Friel, 360-298-5180, renewourlandbank24@gmail.com or at www.RenewOurLandBank.com.
