Such programs mean those parcels have not been taxed at their fullest
potential value. In cases where the land has been taxed at full value,
conservation of such lands often has the net effect of increasing the
value of the surrounding properties. Conserved land makes for a great
next-door neighbor. Preserving open land and viewsheds makes all
adjoining land that much more desirable. Any decrease in tax revenue
from such lands is mitigated by an increase in the value of surrounding
lands.
Generalities aside, let's look at a parcel that was brought up at
Waitsfield's Town Meeting this week, a seven-acre former polo field
that abuts the south end of Old County Road and runs south. This field
was donated to the town by the Flemer family with a request that it
remain open for recreational uses.
To suggest that the town not accept this gift is ridiculous. To suggest
that it is overly encumbered by a request that its traditional
recreational uses be maintained is likewise ridiculous.
How and why would or should a town reject a park-like field within its
village boundaries? This is a boon, not a bane. One seldom hears of a
town or state or nation ruing - after the fact - the creation of state,
local or national parks.
That field is a generous gift - period. It is assuredly not a good
locale for the Waitsfield Farmers' Market or any other commercial
venture attracting hundreds and sometimes thousands of cars. Even the
combined parking of the town's two shopping centers, grocery store and
other commercial spaces often fails to meet the parking needs of the
Waitsfield Farmers' Market, currently held on the Mad River Green.
Fifty or 100 to 200 years from now, when kids are playing softball on
the field, teenagers are throwing Frisbees and people are reading in
the sun, no one will regret the gift of this field. The same can be
said for the conservation of the Kingsbury Farm in Warren. A hundred
years from now, when the farm is still an active contributor to the
local food supply and provides an easement for the Mad River Path as
well as river access, no one will rue the money spent.
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