We, the undersigned, believe the proposed 2013 Draft Development Master Plan conflicts with and violates the approved 2001 Master Plan. The changes proposed are irreversible and the updated plan was created without public awareness or input. We, the signers of this PETITION request that the Board of Commissioners:

1. Immediately suspend the 2013 Draft Development Master Plan process for Lebanon Hills Regional Park.

2. Designate the 2001 Master Plan as the baseline for all future park planning and operations. Re-establish and commit to the balanced priorities for LHRP set out in the 2001 Master Plan.

3. Establish a permanent citizen-based oversight body to steward the future vision and operations for the development, use and maintenance of the park. Members will be chosen by the same type of selection process as for the 2001 Master Plan Taskforce to include a spectrum of representative citizen groups. The oversight body will report to the Board of Commissioners

4. Charge the newly formed oversight body with development of the updated Master Plan, with support from County staff.

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Background: Lebanon Hills Regional Park is a unique natural resource in the urban core of Dakota County. Its woodlands, lakes, and wetlands offer an extensive network of recreational trails stemming from inviting trailhead facilities. In 2001 a Master Plan was developed by a taskforce made up of representative citizens who applied and were vetted for the task. The group agreed on a vision for LHRP to equally balance environmental and development priorities. Currently Dakota County Park staff and consultants are proposing a new master plan for Lebanon Hills that focuses on increasing park usage through intense development.