Published: 06/19/2008

Pristine greenspace. Preserved nature trails. Bird and wild animal viewing. Plant, tree, bush and wildflower education.

Healthful walking hikes. Quiet, contemplative reflection sites. Preserved historic farmland for historic ties to our past. Family time shared flying kites, being with our pets, picnicking, and simply slowing down the pace of living for a little while. Peaceful mindsets when we are submerged in natural beauty. What a legacy for our future generations.

You, as voting citizens, chose to support the bonds to move this great community forward by protecting tracts of greenspace for the preservation of our quality of life. We must do it one more time to take advantage of quality land opportunities that currently exist.

Important land components still exist in east and west Cobb. I know that south and north Cobb have historic features as well.

As Cobb Commission Chairman Sam Olens has stated previously, "The real issue was not how fast you can develop park land: the issue was let's buy as much as we can and preserve it for future generations."

We must acquire these lands to protect our water and air quality by making them passive recreation sites. Saving them from development and concrete protects natural resource areas and creates nature preserves and greenways.

Even with the current success of fulfilling the bond commitment Cobb has less than one half of the greenspace considered healthy, livable and sustainable for quality of life and our water quality.

Yes, our economy is challenging all of us right now. However, we have a fiscally conservative leadership team in our Cobb County Commissioners. I truly believe that they can design a funding mechanism that will not raise our tax rate significantly to bring forth bond funding to continue the purchase of beautiful parkland in Cobb County.

A proven axiom in investing is to buy low and sell high. With very little development taking place at this time, we absolutely can expect out Cobb County professionals to secure wise investments at a very fair price. With the gems that they have already acquired we can see what they have been proven to be capable of.

Our Cobb County "AAA" debt rating ensures an excellent low interest rate. Cobb elected officials have earned the public's trust. Let us give them permission to do the right thing for the continued betterment of our environment.

Our Cobb Parks Coalition must once again come to life to jumpstart the process. They, and each of us, must become pro-active to resurrect the chance to protect our children's future. This grassroots-citizen thundering herd must be respected and supported. They make a difference through education and action.

Stewardship of historic sites, water quality, air quality, forestation, wildlife and hydrology is our responsibility. We cannot allow future generations to pay a penalty for our failure to act. Sparks of possibility can create flames of achievement. Action is the fuel.

Can we vote in November to positively impact the quality of life for the future? I say we must. Just give us a chance!

Larry Ceminsky

Marietta