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MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO PARK COMMISSION <br /> MEETING HELD ON DECEMBER 2, 1997 <br /> (#4 - Open Space Report- Continued) <br /> White asked if the Commissioners were familiar with the 20/70 concept He explained <br /> the concept refers to when a city is 20% occupied and 70% open space. He said that <br /> residents have generally begun to be unhappy with their city after it is 70% developed. <br /> The concept notes the importance of maintaining open spaces. He said the goal is not to <br /> have the entire city developed. <br /> McDermott cited the goal under open space reflects the importance of maintaining open <br /> space. White also noted the importance of developing strategy and aligning with other <br /> groups and communities that support maintaining open space. Beal said tree preservation <br /> is also a integral part of maintaining open space and should be so referenced. McDermott <br /> referred to #8 under Open Space that addresses it. He said buffers should be developed <br /> with criteria, whether 10' or 50', revegetation ar already vegetated property, and review <br /> areas for additional buffering. <br /> Wilson felt adding tree preservation to the goals is important. Beal suggested it to <br /> included in the problem statement as the lack of inclusion would impede what the <br /> Commission is attempting to accomplish. He noted the survey showed the residents want <br /> to maintain the natural look of the area. <br /> Item #9 was added to the open space goals, "having a tree preservation policy to maintain <br /> or enhance the rural characteristics of the City." <br /> White suggested looking at both tree coverage and percentages for maintaining trees. <br /> Wilson suggested warking with the City to develop a policy to protect the rural feeling of <br /> Orono by protection of trees would state the positive outcome of tree preservation in <br /> accomplishing the goal of open space. Commission felt there was a better probability of <br /> preserving trees than acquisition of open spaces of land. Open space can be preserved <br /> through both acquiring parcels and tree preservation. <br /> The goal under Parks was approved. <br /> Wilson noted there was no mention of community park. McDermott said it was included <br /> as part of#1 in an attempt to keep it open and simple. <br /> The goal for Trails was approved. <br /> Beal asked if this would be the appropriate time to change the name of the Park <br /> Commission. McDermott indicated that the Council is considering the name change of <br /> the Parks, Open Space and Trails Commission. <br /> 8 <br />