SMPG position letter on Lafferty Park to the Petaluma City Council

Sonoma Mountain Preservation Group, Inc.
5850 Grove St.,  Sonoma CA
95476

October 14, 2001

City Council Members, Petaluma
11 English St.
Petaluma CA 94952

Honorable Council Members,

A year ago we wrote you concerning the importance of preserving Lafferty as follows:

"The experience of successful efforts to preserve mountain sites near cities, such as Mt. Diablo and Mt. Tamalpais, has shown that public access is an indispensable element in building popular enthusiasm for preservation.  People will work hard to preserve what they know and cherish.

"We believe the people of Petaluma and environs need access to the mountain for its natural beauty, spectacular views, healthful exertions, and moments of respite from their busy lives.  We also believe that in caring for Lafferty Ranch Park's natural resources, current and future generations will learn the importance of stewardship of the rest of the mountain, and beyond.

"We support Petaluma's efforts to open this park, and will continue to support them in every way we can."

There is no better way to create a constituency for the protection of Sonoma Mountain than to provide them with the access to the land.

Today, you approach the Environmental Impact Report:  we urge you to adopt it.  We urge you to adopt the Project.  Sonoma Mountain Preservation Group will support your application to the Agricultural Preservation and Open Space District to purchase the development rights on Lafferty. 

Sincerely, 

George Ellman

George Ellman, Chair
Sonoma Mountain Preservation Group