Do \u201cactions speak louder than words\u201d? Now \u201cmisinformation\u201d and \u201cmalinformation\u201d are amplified louder. As an environmental scientist, I respectfully ask my fellow citizens to carefully review the Charter language of both ballot measures on Lake Oswego natural parks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One, well researched, legally reviewed and written with expert input, prevents developing the remaining 4% of Lake Oswego land, our natural parks (Citizens\u2019 Measure 3-568). Of course the measure allows for a Master Plan with fire mitigation, invasive species removal, ADAcompliant access, benches, displays, picnic and sanitary facilities, maintenance and preservation of ecological values so ALL residents can enjoy them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The other, (City\u2019s Measure 3-575) was rushed through a taxpayer funded survey this past July and could result in natural parks reduced into developable pieces using the language \u201cadopt by ordinance a map of the Natural Areas of these park properties\u201d within 60 days AFTER we vote.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sometimes important legalese is buried; the wrong words amplified. Could press on this be greenwashing? Why this sudden competing measure if not to prevent protection?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Historically, numerous official actions to develop natural parks were fought piecemeal because the City\u2019s code is not protective enough. (Could the City\u2019s Measure be worse?)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Citizens felt compelled to work years prior to and through a pandemic and a U.S. Supreme Court ruling against signature collection period extensions to qualify Measure 3-568; purely to protect this land for you and yours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Efforts to collaborate fell on deaf ears of officials\u2019 and the Mayor, not citizens\u2019. Disappointing and worse, citizens\u2019 collaborative efforts resulted in tactics opposite of deliberative democracy, not listed here. More disturbing, the City controls both measure titles and descriptions in the Voters\u2019 Pamphlet and can confuse you. Surprise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Please vote YES on Measure 3-568, NO on City\u2019s Measure 3-575.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Rosemary DiCandilo
Lake Oswego<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With Rosemary DiCandilo’s permission, we have reproduced her Reader Letter for your convenience and for those who don’t subscribe to the LO Review. Read her letter in the LO Review here: <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n