Parks and Recreational Land in Wake County Need Your Help!

Wake County Commissioners are considering repealing the Recreational Land Dedication Ordinance (RLDO), which requires new developments to set aside land, or pay a fee in-lieu of, for future parks, open space, and recreation.

This is a fair fee that ensures that new development helps pay its fair share of the infrastructure costs of growth.  Providing and maintaining adequate parks and open space is critical as development occurs, particularly given that Wake County is projected to be the fastest growing metro region in the country over the next 10 years.  If we do not set aside places for recreation, we undermine our access to healthy living and a quality environment.  Moreover, we undercut our attractiveness to new residents and businesses.

The Wake County Open Space and Parks Advisory Committee released a report in April 2011 recommending against repeal of the ordinance.  They found that all the surrounding counties and local municipalities, except Granville Co., have an ordinance requiring development to contribute to parks and open space.  We don't see any reason why Wake should get rid of its ordinance now.

For your convenience, you can copy and paste the text below into your message, or modify it to say it in your own words.

Dear Wake County Commissioners,

I am a Wake County resident who is concerned about plans to repeal the Recreational Land Dedication Ordinance (RLDO), which requires new developments to set aside land, or pay a fee in-lieu of, for parks and recreational space. 

I urge you not to repeal this important policy, which ensures opportunities for recreation and green space in our fast developing county.  Our recreational assets are important for healthy living, quality of life, increasing property values, and for attracting new business and residents.

Please oppose any efforts to repeal the RLDO.  This is a fair fee, which helps ensure growth pays for the infrastructure costs of new growth. 

However, the RLDO should be modified to allow funds to be used to a greater geographic area, allowing it to better enhance our County.

Sincerely,