By Shelly Maharry, president and CEO of the Community Foundation of Johnson County
The Community Foundation of Johnson County Board of Directors endorses the upcoming Conservation Bond Referendum on the Nov. 5 ballot, which focuses on clean water, expanding parks and building more walking, hiking and biking trails. This bond is not just an investment in our environment — it’s an investment in our entire county’s health, well-being and future.
We believe access to clean water is a fundamental right and a cornerstone of public health. This bond will enable critical efforts to protect our rivers, lakes and groundwater from pollution and depletion. With growing pressures from development and climate change, we must act now to secure the health of our water sources for generations to come.
Our public parks are the heart of our community spaces. They provide places for children to play, families to gather, and all of us to connect with nature. This bond will expand and enhance park spaces in Johnson County, ensuring that every resident, regardless of neighborhood or income, has access to high-quality outdoor areas. Parks aren’t just green spaces — they are community-building spaces. Research shows that well-maintained parks are safe places for recreation, improve community mental health and increase property values. In essence, they make our communities stronger, safer and more vibrant.
Expanding our network of walking, hiking and biking trails is a powerful investment in our physical and mental health. Trails offer free, accessible opportunities for exercise, recreation and transportation. They connect people to nature, to each other, and to local businesses. In fact, trails can boost local economies by attracting tourists and encouraging local spending. But just as importantly, they offer a chance for everyone, regardless of age or ability, to enjoy the outdoors. By supporting this bond, we’re ensuring that future generations will have these opportunities, too.
This bond builds upon the success of the 2008 Conservation Bond, which successfully financed 16 different projects, acquired 1,177 acres of land for conservation, flood mitigation and recreational purposes, built 9.2 miles of hard surface trails, and leveraged an additional $17 million in grants, donations and revenues for Johnson County.
The Johnson County Conservation Bond reflects our commitment to being champions of the natural environment and shared prosperity for all. We encourage Johnson County voters to flip the ballot, and vote “YES” on Election Day.
