By Quentin Misiag, Chicago, Illinois
On any given day, cyclists can zip from Coralville to just west of Tiffin on the winding, completely paved Clear Creek Trail. Fishing enthusiasts can catch large mouth bass, bluegill and other fish in the restored F.W. Kent Park lake. And, steps from the Iowa River, hikers can traverse a three-mile grass path at the Pechman Creek Delta just outside Lone Tree.
Unique in their ecological makeup, these three projects share one commonality: Each was made possible thanks to the passage of the 2008 Johnson County Conservation Bond. A dozen other projects — many connecting rural and urban communities together — were also made possible from the $20 million bond that year, the first-of-its kind in the entire state.
A proud native of Johnson County, my life has positively benefited from investments in these natural areas.
I’ve learned first-hand that access to high-quality recreational opportunities aren’t just good for one’s physical and mental health. They drive tourism activities and revenue and help attract new residents and retain existing ones. Over the last five years, accompanied by friends I’ve met living in other states, I’ve proudly shown off the region’s recreational assets, including many other bond-funded projects like the historic Sutliff Bridge Access. Watching their amazement and level of surprise never gets old.
For these reasons and countless others, the passage of this year’s $30 million Johnson County Conservation Bond is essential.
At an average cost of just $7.09 per $100,000 of valuation for homeowners, this bond is a smart, cost-effective way to ensuring a stronger, healthier future for Johnson County residents and visitors. The new bond will help this region address the challenges of today head on, with strategic flood resilience initiatives, expanded parks, greater trail connectivity, healthier waterways, cleaner air, and protections for regional wildlife habitats.
For the bond to pass, it must win at least 60 percent of the vote, which means talking to friends, family, coworkers and perfect strangers about its benefits will be key.
Whether you choose to vote absentee, early or on Election Day, I urge you to flip your ballot over and vote “Yes” to approve the Johnson County Conservation Bond. It’s a vote for a bolder, more resilient future.
