[Durham INC] My email/letter to county commissioners regarding matching grants programs

[Melissa Rooney]

Just thought I'd forward this to the INC listserv in the hopes that it might inspire others to write the BOCC in support of matching grants and open space and farmland protection programs.
Sincerely,
Melissa (Rooney)
See below.



On Monday, 9 June 2014 10:13 AM, Melissa Rooney <mmr121570 at yahoo.com> wrote:
 


Hello County Commissioners. I hope this email finds you well.




I am writing to implore you again this year NOT to cut funds to any matching grants programs - DOST and Keep-Durham-Beautiful matching grants, in particular.


These programs have provided 50% of the funding for multiple projects in which I have been a part, including rain gardens and other bmps that reduce runoff/erosion and prevent more pollution of our waterways. In addition, the soccer goals, which are used extensively at Creekside Elementary, were provided by a DOST matching grant -- these kids would not have goals at all if not for this program.

The matching grants programs enable Durham County to ONLY have to pay half the price for beneficial open space and BMP projects. I don't know any person who would turn down a program that enables them to pay only 1/2 the price of items/projects that directly benefit their property.

I invite you to take a walk around the grounds of Creekside Elementary School and to visit the front parking area and central courtyard at Lowe's Grove Middle School...all of the plantings, which have greatly beautified these areas as well as reduced runoff problems, have been possible because of the above two matching grants programs. In addition to providing hands-on education for DPS students, these projects/plantings give an immediate good first impression to visiting parents and prospective DPS students. Appearances matter, and a school with visible vegetable, rain and butterfly gardens leaves a far better impression than one with dry, weedy grounds.

In addition, people are attracted to Durham because it is a unique city that has held on to the natural and sustainable practices that have been important to our society throughout history. Open Space and Farmland Protection should not be cut. Indeed, preserving these areas is important to the desirability and quality of life. I have heard many neighbors state that when the cows on Herndon Road go, they are going. They are not alone. People like open space, trees, and local farms. Take them away, and people will want to live elsewhere as wel

Thank you for your sincere consideration of my concerns.
Melissa Rooney
301 Spring Garden Drive
Durham, NC 27713
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