Tell Lawrence City Commissioners to Protect the Wakarusa Wetlands

Protect our Wetlands! Vote "NO" on AMDT-25-0006

As a local constituent, I urge you to vote "NO" on AMDT-25-0006. The construction of hotels, restaurants, a convenience store and a mega sports complex that would irreparably harm the Baker Wetlands. This amendment sets a dangerous precedent for future floodplain development, conversion of open space to commercial space, and destruction of sensitive biodiverse wetlands habitat. Undeveloped floodplains provide a host of natural services that protect and enhance our community, including wetland habitat, wildlife corridors, water filtration, groundwater recharge, flood mitigation, and spaces for passive recreation. This development would also compromise the wetlands habitat by introducing increased traffic, noise, trash, and light pollution that would adversely affect not only the view of the night sky but also the compass of migratory birds. Beyond this, the cultural, historical, and spiritual connections to the Wakarusa wetlands of Indigenous peoples and the Haskell community cannot be minimized. We must respect them by not damaging their sacred space. Lastly, we have civic concerns about this project. The sector plan the developer wishes to update has not had comprehensive community review since its adoption in 2007. It is both premature and unwise to promote this commercial development now without appropriate community review. We must recognize our responsibility to our natural world, to our neighbors, to our Indigenous community members, and to our future generations. Please vote NO on this comprehensive plan amendment. Thank you for your service.