I would like to thank Sheila Plotkin and all that were involved in coordinating the presentation at the library concerning the purchase of the Schuetz property. This was an excellent presentation that provided valuable information.

I think the purchase of the Schuetz property is a wonderful opportunity for McFarland, it's residents, visitors and businesses. I have not made this decision without doing some research. I have evaluated the pros and cons of this purchase. I feel very strongly that this is an opportunity that we should take seriously and should not pass up.

Land is a limited commodity. Green space is being eliminated at a remarkable rate. I am glad to hear that the Village of McFarland has policies regarding parks in future developments. The idea of Fees in Lieu of Parks concerns me. I feel the parks are needed and should remain a requirement. However, if we are allowing a payoff from developers to eliminate parks in their developments, this is a wonderful way in which to

use those funds. Parks are obviously important to McFarland or we wouldn't have the park requirement for developers in the first place.

The concern of upkeep costs was brought forward at the meeting at the Library. Because this proposed park would not include baseball diamonds, soccer fields, etc., I would imagine the park can be maintained at a lower cost. I have been made aware that the reason for the third party plan for the park was needed as part of the grant process. The $1.5 figure that has been spoken of indicates the cost to make improvements to the park if done according to this plan. It has been explained that the plan does not need to be followed exactly. As a matter of fact, I don't feel we should have a third party deciding what type of improvements should be made to this land, that should be decided by McFarland residents and perhaps there are requirements to meet due to the grants. However, the plan gives a perspective of things that can be done with the land. I am glad that this was explained.

I hope, if the Schuetz property is purchased by the Village, that we are very careful in the planning the park as to not upset the plants and wildlife and that we are conservative with spending. $1.5 million seems to be in great excess of what I feel would be needed. I also feel the citizens of McFarland should be able to voice their opinions as to what is done with the park for improvements.

I also feel that if the land is developed, that it does not mean the cost of upkeep would be eliminated. If developed, increases would be seen in costs of upkeep with roads, electrical, water, sewer, police, fire, etc. There is a cost to the community either way. There are benefits to the community either way. I also realize that big estates could bring in tax revenue for the community.

I have really tried to gain information on the pros and cons of this proposed purchase. After weighing the pros and cons, I feel the greater benefits would be gained in the usage of this land as a park.

We have plenty of history made in this world with negative events. Let's make history, positive history, by purchasing this land. Our generation is being given the opportunity to give something to McFarland that can last an eternity. That opportunity doesn't come around every day.

Please, strongly consider approving the purchase of this land.

Thank you,

Barbara Habich

McFarland Citizen