During the plan review process, the Friends have done what the City asks of its citizens. We've provided rational proposals to improve the development plan while respecting the developer's rights. We've presented the facts as best as we could in the limited time available.

In the past months, we've learned much in talking with ecologists, biologists, geologists, and engineers. These experts have expressed concerns about the effect of nearby development on the ecology of the marsh, the health of Madison's lakes, and the ground water that city residents depend on. We're also concerned with the infrastructure costs the City may have to assume to support the development in the current plan.

The Friends are excited about the planned purchase of land and conservation easements on 280 acres of wetland and upland. We thank developer Dennis Tiziani, the mayor, City staff, and the Plan Commission for their foresight and willingness to work to negotiate the purchase.

We regret we didn't have the time or opportunity to inform all Council members individually about our concerns with the plan. We encourage you to read the documents we've provided to you tonight.

A motion tonight to delay approval for 45 days would allow us more time to explain our proposals and exchange information with the City, the developer, and the neighborhoods. The result could be a development plan that is better for everyone.

In the months to come, the Friends will continue to explore options for obtaining more land for wetland buffers. We'll work to encourage technologies and land-use policies that reduce water use and limit urban runoff in the developed areas.

The Friends acknowledge the rights of the land owner and the interests of the City and neighborhoods and will work to find solutions that are agreeable to all.

January 16, 2007