Dutchess considers bonding for more open space preservation

POUGHKEEPSIE – Since Dutchess County began its open space preservation program a number of years ago, it has preserved a dozen properties and the county administration has asked the county legislature to consider bonding for $1.6 million for additional properties.

The Environment Committee debated the issue with County Planning Commissioner Roger Akeley Thursday.

“We have completed 12 open space and farmland acquisitions and that amounts to about 1,600 acres of farmland and 382 acres of public open space,” he said. Now, the administration is asking for approval to make seven more purchases.

But, some members of the Democratic majority on the legislature said they resented Republican County Executive William Steinhaus’ inference that they are opposed to open space preservation.

Lawmakers are going to further discuss the issue on Monday.

Also to be discussed then is authorizing $10 million in bonding for parks and park facilities.