Council Meeting-MGO 8.35(3)(f) Madison LakeWay

Hello!

I am confused about the source of information used to register opposition to the changes to MGO 8.35.  Please review Council President Vidaver's blog, which sums up my position on this item.

Unlike Alder Vidaver, in 2021, I was appointed to the Board of Parks and served for 4 years. I have participated in this process, attending meetings, engagement sessions, and other board discussions. This project is not a secret, and the changes to the ordinance do not circumvent public participation.

This project focuses on the protection and health of the lakeshore, as well as the safe use of all methods of transportation. This Council approved the framework for the LakeWay development in April 2024.

The ordinance requires a referendum if parkland within 50 feet of a lake is sold or permanently changed in use, but it also allows for the Council to approve exceptions.

One of the emails received reads:

"The proposed LakeWay improvements include:

• Wider, safer paths for bikes and walkers
• Ecological shoreline restoration to reduce erosion and improve lake health
• Better lake access for everyone, not just people driving cars
• More green space and park connections, from Olin Park to Willy Street
• This is not about privatizing the lakefront. It's about rebuilding public access and restoring the shoreline.", Allen Arntsen.

I couldn't agree more; this project protects the shoreline by ensuring it remains public parkland and creates a safe environment for the lake and its people. This ordinance change does not take away public participation. Thus far, over 40 public meetings, over 8,000 public comments, several public design sessions, and neighborhood feedback, as well as the review of six city committees, have taken place. Your input has been crucial in shaping this project, and there is more to come as this project continues to evolve.