John Ramsburgh serves on the greenbelt advisory commission’s communications committee. (Photos by the writer.)

The main discussion in open session focused on an update from GAC’s communications committee. The committee has recommended creating an internship for the city’s greenbelt program, drawing from students at the University of Michigan. John Ramsburgh, a GAC member who works for UM’s College of Literature, Science & the Arts, said that his unit could provide office space and resources for the intern.

The work would entail a range of projects, including collaboration with city GIS staff to develop driving or biking maps of greenbelt-protected properties, and drafting Twitter posts and Facebook updates that would promote the greenbelt program. After other commissioners reached consensus to support this approach, Ramsburgh said he’d post the opening with the hope of selecting an intern for the fall semester.

Also at the July 3 meeting, Ginny Trocchio – who provides staff support for the greenbelt program – told commissioners that the city had recently closed a deal to purchase development rights for about 20 acres along Zeeb Road in Webster Township. The transaction brings the total of greenbelt-protected property to a bit over 4,300 acres.

Communications Plan

John Ramsburgh gave an update on work of GAC’s communications committee. Other members are Stephanie Buttrey and Jean Cares. He reported that committee members and Ginny Trocchio, who provides staff support for GAC, met with the city’s communication liaisons to talk about creating a comprehensive communications plan and facilitating outreach for the greenbelt program.

The communications staff described various methods that can be used, including the city’s email distribution system, press advisories, and social media accounts. There’s a great opportunity for the greenbelt program to increase its media presence both through the city’s parks and recreation unit, but also through GAC’s own individual efforts, he said.

One idea is to post a position for an intern at the University of Michigan, with preference for someone in the program in the environment and communications studies, or someone who has background in social media.

The intern would do work outlined by GAC’s communications committee, including:

• Research other local groups who might have interest in the greenbelt;
• Collaborate with city GIS staff to develop driving or biking maps of greenbelt-protected properties;
• Research other farmland preservation programs across the country to see what’s working or not;
• Draft Twitter feeds and Facebook updates that could be passed along to staff;
• Develop a calendar of events of greenbelt activities;
• Help volunteer at events that can highlight GAC’s work.

Ramsburgh said the hope is to post the position through the internship website of UM’s College of Literature, Science, and the Arts and perhaps fill the position in the fall. Ramsburgh had volunteered to post it, and serve as the liaison since there’s space in his unit at UM to accommodate an intern. [Ramsburgh is a development officer for LS&A.] His office could provide a place for the intern to work, and other resources.

From left: Greenbelt advisory commissioners Shannon Brines and Stephanie Buttrey. Buttrey serves on GAC’s communications committee.

Trocchio reported that Tweets and Facebook posts can be drafted in advance, then scheduled to be posted once a day or once a week. That way, people are regularly getting updates about the greenbelt, she said. “It’s just a way to really increase our presence.”

Catherine Riseng asked if this intern was envisioned as an ongoing position, or just a one-semester job. Ramsburgh replied that there’s enough work for a one-semester internship. But considering the grassroots groundswell of support within the university and student community for the kinds of things that the greenbelt program is doing, “this might be something that would become an ongoing internship,” he said. GAC could develop an ongoing relationship with UM’s School of Natural Resources & Environment, or LS&A’s program in the environment – programs where there are students who want to get involved in this kind of work.

Ramsburgh said it wouldn’t be good to set it up to have regular social media and other activity for a period, “then, all of a sudden, stop.” One of the things that the committee would like the intern to do is to compile a media list that’s unique to GAC. It would complement the city’s media list, but would include national interest groups that would like to follow what Ann Arbor’s greenbelt program is doing, he said.

So the internship would be set up to handle the research and background projects first, he said, then move slowly into other work so that they don’t set up expectations that can’t be met in an ongoing way.

Ramsburgh also cautioned that there’s no guarantee that students would apply for the internship. If that happens, GAC might want to approach other institutions in southeast Michigan, he said.

Commissioners didn’t take a formal vote, but reached consensus for Ramsburgh to proceed and post the internship for this fall.

Staff Update

Ginny Trocchio gave a brief update, noting that the city had recently closed on the acquisition of about 20 acres on Zeeb Road, north of Joy Road. It’s now part of a block of land that’s been previously protected with greenbelt funds, and brings the total of greenbelt-protected property to just over 4,300 acres.

GAC member Archer Christian.

By way of background, the Ann Arbor city council – at its Sept. 3, 2013 meeting – had approved the purchase of development rights for the Jane Sheldon and Robert Wolf property in Webster Township. The approval had been for an amount not to exceed $82,067 using funds from the city’s open space and parkland preservation millage. That amount included $43,200 toward the purchase price of $47,500.

The city also paid for due diligence and closing costs, and $23,867 toward an endowment for potential future legal and enforcement expenses. Webster Township contributed $2,000 toward the purchase. Other funds included $2,300 from a contribution that Cherry Republic made to the city.

GAC had recommended the deal at its May 2, 2013 meeting.

Land Acquisition

Most meetings of the greenbelt advisory commission include a closed session to discuss possible land acquisitions. The topic of land acquisition is one allowed as an exemption by the Michigan Open Meetings Act for a closed session.

On July 3, commissioners met in a closed session that lasted about 30 minutes.

When they emerged, they did not take any votes related to land acquisition.

Next scheduled meeting: Thursday, Aug. 14, 2014 at 4:30 p.m. in the second-floor council chambers at city hall, 301 E. Huron. [Check Chronicle event listings to confirm date] The meetings are open to the public and include two opportunities for public commentary.

Present: Peter Allen, Shannon Brines, Stephanie Buttrey, Archer Christian, Jennifer Fike, John Ramsburgh, Catherine Riseng (chair), Christopher Taylor. Staff: Ginny Trocchio.

Absent: Jean Cares.

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Stephanie Buttrey, a member of the Ann Arbor greenbelt advisory commission’s communications and outreach committee. (Photos by the writer.)

The hope is to increase support of the program among Ann Arbor taxpayers, landowners who might be eligible to preserve their property as part of the greenbelt, and elected officials and policymakers at the local, regional and federal levels.

The committee is also thinking longer-term, looking at what might happen when the 30-year millage expires. The millage that supports the greenbelt program was passed by voters in 2003. The 0.5 mill tax for land acquisition is called the open space and parkland preservation millage. On the summer tax bill, the line item appears as CITY PARK ACQ.

The committee will continue its work and eventually bring forward a completed plan for the full commission to approve.

Also on May 1, commissioners received a brief update from Ginny Trocchio, who provides staff support for the greenbelt program. She reported on proposed federal legislation related to tax incentives for donating conservation easements. Landowners who want to donate easements or who agree to sell their easements for less than market value have in the past received a tax deduction. But legislation allowing for that deduction expired at the end of 2013. Congress is considering an extension for 2014 and 2015, Trocchio said.

The meeting also included a closed session to discuss possible land acquisitions, which lasted about 30 minutes. The topic of land acquisition is one allowed as an exemption by the Michigan Open Meetings Act for a closed session. When commissioners emerged, they voted on one resolution that will be forwarded to the city council – a recommendation to pursue the purchase of development rights on a property in Pittsfield Township, using matching funds that Cherry Republic had previously donated to the city.

Communications & Outreach

Three commissioners serve on a committee for communications and outreach: Stephanie Buttrey, John Ramsburgh, and Jean Cares. They volunteered to work on the committee at GAC’s Jan. 2, 2014 meeting.

Since then, they’ve developed a draft communications plan with two primary goals: (1) increasing public awareness of and support for the greenbelt, and (2) increasing landowner support for and participation in land preservation within the greenbelt.

John Ramsburgh, a member of GAC’s communications and outreach committee.

At the May 1 meeting, Buttrey gave an update on the plan. The committee had brainstormed about how to get the greenbelt program’s message out to the community, she said. Many people don’t know about the program, or know about it in only a very general way. Sometimes, people’s reaction is to ask why the city is spending taxpayer money outside of Ann Arbor, she noted.

Because of misinformation or a lack of information, she said, the committee was formed to communicate the greenbelt’s mission and to come up with answers to frequently asked questions – and in general, to figure out how to get the message out about what the greenbelt program does.

The draft plan calls for using a combination of earned, paid and social media to strengthen public and landowner support for the greenbelt. Target audiences include Ann Arbor taxpayers, existing and potential landowner participants in the program, and elected officials and policymakers at the local, regional and federal levels. [.pdf of draft plan]

Existing outreach efforts include an annual public forum at the Ann Arbor District Library that features a panel discussion of landowners who’ve participated in the program. A bus tour of greenbelt properties is held each year, and the greenbelt is typically promoted at events throughout the year, like the HomeGrown Fest and Mayor’s Green Fair.

Potential efforts listed in the draft plan include:

• Develop a FAQ for commission members and the public.
• Create a greenbelt Facebook page and Twitter account, as well as a presence on the city’s Facebook and Twitter pages.
• Form a greenbelt-exclusive listserv with the target goal of 500 emails in 2014, to receive monthly updates. 
• Design a tri-fold brochure for distribution.
• Implement a registry program for potential landowners.
• Partner with local businesses that support local agriculture, as a possible alternate source of matching funds.
• Expand public outreach through event tabling, a speaker’s bureau, and other efforts.
• Create a PowerPoint presentation that can be used for making presentations. 
• Develop driving and biking maps of greenbelt properties that can be posted online. 
• Explore possible birding opportunities.

Ginny Trocchio, who provides staff support for the greenbelt program, reported that she and Sumedh Bahl – the city’s community services area administrator – have met with the city’s communications staff, who’ll be attending the next committee meeting to help brainstorm about resources that could be used. The intent is to flesh out more details of the plan, create a timeline for implementation, and bring it back to GAC for approval, she said.

The next communications and outreach committee meeting is on May 27 at 4 p.m. in the first floor conference room at city hall. “Any other commissioners are welcome to join us,” Buttrey said.

Buttrey also suggested developing an “elevator speech” – with the intent to have a standard, concise way of explaining the greenbelt program and the role of commissioners.

Ramsburgh noted that the committee is also thinking longer-term about the program, and what will happen when the millage expires.

The 30-year millage that supports the greenbelt program was passed by voters in 2003. The 0.5 mill tax for land acquisition is called the open space and parkland preservation millage. On the summer tax bill, the line item appears as CITY PARK ACQ.

Outcome: This was not a voting item.

Staff Update

Ginny Trocchio gave an update about grants from the former USDA Farm and Ranchland Protection Program (FRPP). By way of background, this program was repealed under the new federal Farm Bill of 2014. It was replaced by the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program.

Ginny Trocchio, right, talks with GAC chair Catherine Riseng before the start of the May 1 meeting. Trocchio is an employee of The Conservation Fund, which is under contract with the city to provide staff support for the greenbelt program.

Applications for this new program are now being accepted until June 6, Trocchio reported. In the past, Ann Arbor’s greenbelt program has been successful in securing FRPP grants as matching funds for land preservation. Trocchio said she’s now working on possible properties that might be eligible for grants under the new program.

Trocchio also updated commissioners on legislation that’s pending in Congress related to tax incentives for donating conservation easements. Landowners who want to donate easements or who agree to sell their easements for less than market value have previously been able to receive a tax deduction.

Prior to 2006, the income deduction that a landowner could take for donating an easement was 30% of their adjusted gross income. They couldn’t take that deduction all in one year, but could carry it forward for an additional five years.

So a landowner earning $50,000 a year who made a donation valued at $1 million could take a $15,000 deduction annually for six years – for a total deduction of $90,000.

In 2006, Congress passed legislation that increased that deduction from 30% of adjusted gross income to 50%, and allowed landowners to carry the deduction forward for an additional 15 years. The change allowed landowners to take a greater overall deduction. So the same landowner earning $50,000 and making a $1 million donation could receive total deductions of $400,000 over 16 years. The 2006 legislation also allowed for certain qualified farmers to deduct 100% of their adjusted gross income. A qualified farmer is someone who makes at least 50% of their household income from a farm operation.

These enhanced incentives expired at the end of 2013, Trocchio reported. Now, however, Congress is considering an extension in 2014 and 2015. She told commissioners that she’d keep them posted on any new developments. The land trust community is hoping to make these incentives permanent, she said.

Land Acquisition

Most meetings of the greenbelt advisory commission include a closed session to discuss possible land acquisitions. The topic of land acquisition is one allowed as an exemption by the Michigan Open Meetings Act for a closed session.

On May 1, commissioners met in a closed session that lasted about 30 minutes, then emerged and voted on one resolution that will be forwarded to the city council.

Before appearing on the city council’s agenda, details of proposed greenbelt acquisitions are not made public. Parcels are identified only by their application number, with the first four numbers signifying the year in which the application was made.

On May 1, commissioners voted on a resolution recommending that the city council move forward with the purchase of development rights on a property identified in application #2013-05. The resolution also recommended a partnership agreement with Pittsfield Township and an allocation of $5,200 from the contribution made to the city by Cherry Republic. That amount would be used as matching funds in the deal.

Outcome: The resolution passed unanimously, without discussion.

Next meeting: Thursday, June 5, 2014 at 4:30 p.m. in the second-floor council chambers at city hall, 301 E. Huron. [Check Chronicle event listings to confirm date] The meetings are open to the public and include two opportunities for public commentary.

Present: Shannon Brines, , Stephanie Buttrey, Jean Cares, Jennifer Fike, John Ramsburgh, Catherine Riseng, Christopher Taylor. Staff: Ginny Trocchio.

Absent: Peter Allen, Archer Christian.

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Kris Olsson, a watershed ecologist with the Huron River Watershed Council, at the Feb. 6, 2014 meeting of the Ann Arbor greenbelt advisory commission. (Photos by the writer.)

The aim of the project is to map, prioritize and encourage protection of the remaining natural areas in the Huron River watershed. The entire watershed covers about 994,000 acres. Of that about 247,000 acres are in the bioreserve. More than 1,700 sites have been mapped as potential natural areas.

The Ann Arbor greenbelt program is one of several partners in the project. Olsson told commissioners that the HRWC hopes this data is used to help land preservation programs like the greenbelt make informed decisions about how to protect natural areas.

Also during the Feb. 6 meeting, Ginny Trocchio – who provides staff support for the greenbelt program – briefed commissioners on the screening and scoring criteria used to review potential acquisitions for the greenbelt program. She reviewed characteristics that result in higher scores for property. For example, sites that receive higher scores have 3-4 natural features (stream corridors, woodlots or rare species), are located within 1 mile of the Ann Arbor city limits, and are located within a township or village that has passed a purchase-of-development-rights (PDR) ordinance.

Trocchio also reported that work on the greenbelt program’s new landowner registry is continuing.

The 90-minute meeting included a closed session lasting about 30 minutes. No votes were taken on potential land deals after commissioners emerged from closed session.

Bioreserve Project

Kris Olsson, a watershed ecologist with the Huron River Watershed Council, gave a special presentation to GAC about the HRWC’s bioreserve project. In introducing Olsson, GAC chair Catherine Riseng noted that they both also serve on the Washtenaw County natural areas technical advisory committee (NATAC), which helps oversee the county’s natural areas preservation program.

Olsson began by giving an overview of HRWC. It’s a membership organization, which includes individuals and entities like the city of Ann Arbor. [GAC member Jennifer Fike is HRWC's finance manager.] The nonprofit was started as a council of governments in 1965 under state legislation designed to protect the Huron River and its tributaries, lakes, wetlands and groundwater. She encouraged commissioners to look at HRWC’s website for a full description of its projects, programs and services.

Detail of a Huron River Watershed Council bioreserve map, indicating areas of high priority (blue), medium priority (green) and low priority (yellow). Image links to .pdf file of complete map.

One of those projects is the bioreserve. The city’s greenbelt program is one of several partners in the bioreserve project, Olsson explained, along with all of the land conservancies in the watershed, the Washtenaw County parks & recreation commission, and other groups. The aim of the project is to map, prioritize and encourage protection of the remaining natural areas in the Huron River watershed. For this purpose, HRWC looked at properties larger than 10 acres, including forest, wetlands and grasslands. This type of land is sometimes referred to as a region’s “green” infrastructure,” she noted.

Olsson reviewed the list of benefits that natural areas provide to the watershed, including help in cooling and filtering runoff, providing a water supply, controlling erosion, managing stormwater and regulating climate. The Huron River is the cleanest urban river in southeast Michigan, she noted, and that’s because there’s still a fair amount of natural area in the watershed. “The more natural areas we have, the better,” Olsson said.

Over the years, watersheds in general have become more developed. As of 2000, 43% of the land in the Huron River watershed was open space, 26% was agricultural, and 31% was developed. But in the next 20 years, 40% of the remaining open space is expected to be developed, Olsson said. Master plans and zoning ordinances in most communities don’t designate space for natural areas, and almost all natural areas are in private ownership and designated for some other use, such as residential or commercial development. And because current trends favor low density, she said, that means development consumes a lot of space per person.

In the Huron River watershed, trends include fragmentation of natural areas, loss of wetlands, and the loss of particular kinds of natural features, including oak barrens, prairies and wooded wetlands. Those are the kinds of areas that HRWC is prioritizing for protection.

Catherine Riseng, chair of the Ann Arbor greenbelt advisory commission.

HRWC’s key messages, Olsson told commissioners, are: (1) encourage higher density development where infrastructure already exists; and (2) preserve natural areas so they can continue to provide the ecological services necessary to maintain quality of water, air, land, and life.

One purpose of the bioreserve project is to assess the remaining natural areas. Limited resources mean that not all natural areas can be protected, Olsson said, so a detailed inventory of the areas will help in determining which parcels should be preserved.

To do that, HRWC started with aerial photos in 2000, and used those to delineate areas that were forests, grasslands, wetlands – anything that could be defined as a natural area. The process used GIS (geographic information systems), and Olsson noted that GAC member Shannon Brines had been involved in this process. [Brines is manager of the Environmental Spacial Analysis (ESA) lab at the University of Michigan School of Natural Resources & Environment.]

The process determined that there were more than 1,700 sites mapped as potential natural areas. The entire watershed is about 994,000 acres, and of that about 247,000 acres are in the bioreserve. Using GIS data, these areas were ranked on 15 criteria, including total size, the size of the core area, topographic and geological diversity, and remnants of endangered “plant communities.”

Olsson noted that a lot of the criteria to prioritize the bioreserve are also used in prioritizing the greenbelt’s preservation efforts.

Priority bioreserve sites in the Huron River watershed.

After HRWC created the GIS map, they started doing field assessments of some of these natural areas to get more information that will help conservancies and other programs – like Ann Arbor’s greenbelt – make decisions about which parcels to preserve. Olsson described the process of doing the assessments, which relies on trained volunteers. Information from that assessment – including a plant checklist, a description of invasive species and other details – is entered into a database, from which a report is generated. That report is then distributed to conservancies and other land preservation programs.

So far, HRWC has trained 249 volunteers and assessed 274 properties. Reports based on this data have helped preserve about 200 acres of land, Olsson said. Another five properties with a total of 547 acres are being evaluated now.

Olsson told commissioners that the HRWC hopes this data is used for “strategery” – helping land preservation programs make informed decisions about how to protect natural areas. Programs in Ann Arbor Township, Scio Township and Webster Township in particular have used the information, she said. [GAC member Jean Cares is also a member of the Webster Township farmland and open space board.]

Bioreserve Project: Commission Discussion

John Ramsburgh asked whether HRWC ever revisits the original bioreserve map. Kris Olsson replied that they’re looking at adding to the map – using historical photos to determine what land has not been plowed in the past. If it’s unplowed, there’s a strong chance that it will have a better seedbed.

John Ramsburgh.

In terms of updating the map’s boundaries, Olsson said it took a lot of work to do the original mapping, so an update would only likely occur if there were an automated way to do it.

Ramsburgh also asked for the source of the information that 40% of the remaining open space is expected to be developed in the next 20 years. Olsson said that came from the 2000 land use data generated by the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG).

Ramsburgh also wanted to know what relationships HRWC had developed at the University of Michigan. [Ramsburgh is a development officer with UM’s College of Literature, Science & the Arts. Commissioners Shannon Brines and Catherine Riseng also work for UM, and developer Peter Allen is an adjunct faculty member at UM's Ross School of Business.]

In addition to the GAC connections, Olsson mentioned naturalist Tony Reznicek, and Bob Grece, director of UM’s Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum, who was director of Olsson’s masters project.

Responding to another query from Ramsburgh, Olsson said that HRWC does offer internships, though there are none currently available for the bioreserve project.

Greenbelt Scoring Criteria

Dovetailing with the bioreserve presentation, Ginny Trocchio – who provides staff support for the greenbelt program – briefed commissioners on the screening and scoring criteria used to review potential greenbelt acquisitions, primarily through the purchase of development rights (PDR). [.pdf of scoring criteria]

There are two sets of criteria that differ only slightly – one for agricultural land, and another for open space/natural areas. Some properties are a mixture of both, but the predominant feature is chosen for scoring purposes, Trocchio said.

For both types of land, there are three major scoring categories:

• Land characteristics, such as soil type, parcel size and road frontage.
• Context, including how the land relates to adjacent or nearby properties.
• Acquisition considerations, such as whether there are matching funds available.

Trocchio reviewed details in each of these categories for both agricultural land and natural areas.

Archer Christian asked Trocchio who determined how each of these categories were weighted, and how that determination was made. Trocchio replied that she wasn’t involved in the program when the scoring mechanism was originally developed. Her understanding is that during the commission’s first year, they wanted to create the criteria before accepting applications. So the city hired a consultant to help develop that scoring mechanism. [The 30-year millage that supports the greenbelt program was passed by voters in 2003, and GAC was formed in 2004.]

Shannon Brines.

Trocchio noted that at different points since then, some additional criteria have been added. For example, the criterion awarding points if a property is located within an agricultural preservation district was added after the original criteria were developed. When the greenbelt program began, most townships didn’t have this kind of district, Trocchio explained. At one point, the state considered creating a purchase-of-development-rights (PDR) program. One criteria to be eligible for state grants would have been that townships have an area designated as an agricultural preservation district. Even though the state PDR program didn’t materialize, most township master plans have been updated to include those districts, Trocchio said.

Christian wondered if the original members of the greenbelt advisory commission expected that the scoring would be revisited at any point. Trocchio said she didn’t know. [No original members of GAC remain on the commission. The last two original members – Dan Ezekiel and Laura Rubin – were term limited and cycled off the commission in 2013.]

Trocchio highlighted other criteria. Some examples of characteristics that result in higher scores for property include:

• Has 3-4 natural features (stream corridors, woodlots or rare species).
• Located within 1 mile of the Ann Arbor city limits.
• Located within a township or village that has passed a purchase-of-development-rights (PDR) ordinance.
• 90% or more of the property’s perimeter is open space.
• Located adjacent to more than one protected property.
• Provides “broad, sweeping view from publicly accessible sites,” or has unique or historical features.
• Contains a Huron River tributary or is located along the river.
• Has 3 or more possible sources of matching funds.
• Landowner is willing to contribute 20% or more of the appraised value of development rights.

Most of the applications to the greenbelt program receive between 40-60% of the possible points, Trocchio said. Several recent applications have scored higher, mainly because of points awarded for being adjacent to protected land. That’s because more land is protected now than when the program first started, she noted.

Trocchio concluded by noting that information about this scoring system is on the greenbelt program’s website.

Staff Report

Ginny Trocchio also gave a brief staff report during the Feb. 6 meeting.

Ginny Trocchio of The Conservation Fund, who provides staff support to the city’s greenbelt program.

She reported that Congress finally passed a farm bill, that was due to be signed by President Barack Obama the following day in East Lansing.

As anticipated, the bill combined different conservation easement programs into one program, she said. That includes the farm & ranchland protection program (FRPP), the grassland reserve program and the wetland reserve program. [The city's greenbelt program has received millions of dollars in FRPP matching funds over the past decade.]

In terms of continued funding, it’s expected to be fairly high for the next five years, Trocchio said – between $400 million to $500 million annually through 2017. It’s a good thing for the greenbelt program that there will be federal funding available, she said.

Trocchio reported that work is moving forward on the greenbelt’s new registry program. A brochure was designed and is being printed. A one-page agreement letter for landowners to sign has been vetted by the city attorney’s office. She said she’ll be working with commissioners Catherine Riseng and Shannon Brines – GAC’s chair and vice chair, respectively – to develop a summary of the registry program to send to city council as an information item.

By way of background, the registry was part of an updated strategic plan that the commission approved at its April 4, 2013 meeting. From the updated strategic plan:

In addition, recognizing that over the next 3-5 years, the Greenbelt will likely shift in program focus and will not be able to acquire as many properties or easements annually, it is important that the Commission maintain contact with landowners in the Greenbelt District who may be interested in protecting their land in the future. Therefore, the Greenbelt will prioritize establishing a Greenbelt Registry Program.

A land registry program is a listing of the properties that contain “special” natural features or has remained in farmland open space that landowners have voluntarily agreed to protect. This is an oral non-binding agreement between the City of Ann Arbor and the landowner. The landowner can end at any time, and the agreement does not affect the deed. The landowners agree to monitor and protect specific features of the property and notify the City if the landowner is planning on selling the property or if major threats have occurred.

The purpose of the land registry is to identify significant parcels of land and, through voluntary agreements with landowners, take the first step toward protection of the land’s natural resources. Furthermore, a land registry program recognizes landowners for protecting significant open space/natural features. Ultimately, these lands could be protected permanently through a conservation easement.

The landowner, by voluntarily agreeing to register their land, agrees to the following:

• Protect the land to the best of their ability
• Notify the City of Ann Arbor Greenbelt Staff of any significant changes they are planning or any natural changes that have occurred.
• Notify the City of Ann Arbor Greenbelt Staff of any intent to sell the property.

Land Acquisition

Most meetings of the greenbelt advisory commission include a closed session to discuss possible land acquisitions. The topic of land acquisition is one allowed as an exemption by the Michigan Open Meetings Act for a closed session. On Feb. 6, commissioners met in a closed session that lasted about 30 minutes. There was no action item when they emerged, and the meeting was adjourned.

Next meeting: Thursday, March 6, 2014 at 4:30 p.m. in the second-floor council chambers at city hall, 301 E. Huron. [Check Chronicle event listings to confirm date] The meetings are open to the public and include two opportunities for public commentary.

Present: Shannon Brines, Jean Cares, Archer Christian, Jennifer Fike, John Ramsburgh, Catherine Riseng, Christopher Taylor. Staff: Ginny Trocchio.

Absent: Peter Allen, Stephanie Buttrey.

The Chronicle survives in part through regular voluntary subscriptions to support our coverage of publicly-funded entities like the city’s greenbelt program. If you’re already supporting The Chronicle, please encourage your friends, neighbors and coworkers to do the same. Click this link for details: Subscribe to The Chronicle.

Stephanie Buttrey asks a question during a discussion at the Ann Arbor greenbelt advisory commission’s Jan. 2, 2014 meeting. Other commissioners in this photo are Peter Allen, Shannon Brines and Jean Cares. (Photos by the writer.)

Land acquisition is one topic that’s allowed as an exemption in Michigan’s Open Meetings Act, which allows a public body to meeting in a closed session. Emerging after about 30 minutes, commissioners voted to recommend that the city partner with Scio Township for the purchase of development rights on a property in that township, just west of Ann Arbor. Until properties are put on the council agenda, they are identified only by application number, not by specific location or ownership.

Also on Jan. 2, commissioners got an update on Preserve Washtenaw, a group of local governments and organizations – including the city of Ann Arbor – that are involved in long-term land preservation efforts. The goal of Preserve Washtenaw is to provide a forum for discussing how these various entities can collaborate and coordinate.

Commissioners also voted to approve GAC’s 2014 meeting schedule, and created a new committee focused on outreach. Members include John Ramsburgh, Stephanie Buttrey and Jean Cares.

No one spoke during the meeting’s two opportunities for public commentary.

Preserve Washtenaw

Ginny Trocchio, who provides staff support for the greenbelt program, gave commissioners an update on Preserve Washtenaw.

The group was formed in 2005, two years after Ann Arbor voters approved the city’s 30-year open space and parkland preservation millage, which funds the greenbelt program. Several other entities in Washtenaw County are also working on land preservation initiatives. Those include the Washtenaw County natural areas preservation and farmland preservation programs, and land preservation efforts in Ann Arbor Township, Pittsfield Township, Scio Township and Webster Township.

In addition, several land conservancies were also active in local land preservation, including the Legacy Land Conservancy, Southeast Michigan Land Conservancy, and Raisin Valley Land Trust.

The intent behind Preserve Washtenaw is to provide a forum for discussing how these various entities can collaborate and coordinate efforts, Trocchio said. The group has been meeting quarterly since 2005 and is open to any organizations and communities that are working on permanent land preservation in the county.

Preserve Washtenaw is not set up as a formal nonprofit, Trocchio explained, but it does serve as a single entry point for landowners who are looking for options to protect their land. If a landowner applies to the greenbelt program but the property is located outside of the greenbelt boundaries, for example, then the city staff shares the application with the appropriate land preservation entity, she said.

The Preserve Washtenaw website is hosted by the county, and will be updated soon. They also hope to provide an interactive map at some point to show the locations of protected land.

Preserve Washtenaw: Commission Discussion

In response to a commissioner question, Trocchio said that she typically attends the Preserve Washtenaw meetings on behalf of the city of Ann Arbor, but any greenbelt advisory commissioners would be welcome to attend.

Stephanie Buttrey asked if this was the only forum for exchanging information – she guessed that people were communicating regularly throughout the year, not just at the quarterly meetings. Trocchio confirmed that view, saying that she talks regularly with representatives from the county and other land preservation groups. But the quarterly meetings allow people to all gather at one time, she said.

There were no other questions.

Outcome: This was not a voting item.

2014 Meeting Calendar

Commissioners were asked to approve GAC’s meeting calendar for 2014. Except for the August meeting, GAC will meet on the first Thursday of each month at 4:30 p.m. In August, the meeting will be held on Aug. 14 due to a conflict with a rescheduled city council meeting. The city council typically meets on the first and third Monday of each month. But because of the primary election on Tuesday, Aug. 5, the council meeting that week will be held on Thursday, Aug. 7.

Most GAC meetings are held in council chambers and are broadcast live via Community Television Network. However, the calendar indicates that GAC’s November and December meetings will be held in the basement conference room at city hall, which is not set up for broadcasting. [.pdf of GAC 2014 meeting calendar]

Outcome: Commissioners approved the calendar without discussion.

Staff Update

Ginny Trocchio reported that she hasn’t yet received word about whether the city has received any grants from the USDA Farm and Ranchland Protection Program (FRPP). She said she’d update commissioners when she receives additional news.

Trocchio also reported that the greenbelt registry program is still being reviewed by the city administrator and city attorney’s office. A database has been compiled of about 250 landowners with large properties – 40 acres or more – that are still in active use as farmland or have undeveloped open space. These are landowners that the city could approach about the greenbelt program, she said.

The registry was part of an updated strategic plan that the commission approved at its April 4, 2013 meeting. From the updated strategic plan:

In addition, recognizing that over the next 3-5 years, the Greenbelt will likely shift in program focus and will not be able to acquire as many properties or easements annually, it is important that the Commission maintain contact with landowners in the Greenbelt District who may be interested in protecting their land in the future. Therefore, the Greenbelt will prioritize establishing a Greenbelt Registry Program.

A land registry program is a listing of the properties that contain “special” natural features or has remained in farmland open space that landowners have voluntarily agreed to protect. This is an oral non-binding agreement between the City of Ann Arbor and the landowner. The landowner can end at any time, and the agreement does not affect the deed. The landowners agree to monitor and protect specific features of the property and notify the City if the landowner is planning on selling the property or if major threats have occurred.

The purpose of the land registry is to identify significant parcels of land and, through voluntary agreements with landowners, take the first step toward protection of the land’s natural resources. Furthermore, a land registry program recognizes landowners for protecting significant open space/natural features. Ultimately, these lands could be protected permanently through a conservation easement.

The landowner, by voluntarily agreeing to register their land, agrees to the following:

• Protect the land to the best of their ability
• Notify the City of Ann Arbor Greenbelt Staff of any significant changes they are planning or any natural changes that have occurred.
• Notify the City of Ann Arbor Greenbelt Staff of any intent to sell the property.

Outcome: This was not a voting item.

Outreach Committee

Catherine Riseng, GAC’s chair, reported that the executive committee had discussed the issue of outreach, and that Ginny Trocchio is interested in getting help with suggestions from commissioners. Riseng asked if any commissioners were interested in volunteering to serve.

Three commissioners volunteered: John Ramsburgh, Jean Cares and Stephanie Buttrey. Trocchio said she’d be in touch with them about setting up a meeting.

Outcome: This was not a voting item.

Land Acquisition

Most meetings of the greenbelt advisory commission include a closed session to discuss possible land acquisitions. The topic of land acquisition is one allowed as an exemption by the Michigan Open Meetings Act for a closed session. On Jan. 2, commissioners met in a closed session that lasted about 30 minutes, then emerged and voted on one resolution that will be forwarded to the city council.

Before appearing on the city council’s agenda, details of proposed greenbelt acquisitions are not made public. Parcels are identified only by their application number, with the first four numbers signifying the year in which the application was made.

On Jan. 2, commissioners voted on a resolution recommending that the city council approve partnering with Scio Township for the purchase of development rights on a property identified in application #2013-04 and contribute up to 30% of the purchase price, not to exceed $25,200.

Outcome: The resolution passed unanimously, without discussion.

Next meeting: Thursday, Feb. 6, 2014 at 4:30 p.m. in the second-floor council chambers at city hall, 301 E. Huron. This meeting will also likely include a driving tour of greenbelt properties. [Check Chronicle event listings to confirm date] The meetings are open to the public and include two opportunities for public commentary.

Present: Peter Allen, Shannon Brines, Stephanie Buttrey, Jean Cares, Jennifer Fike, John Ramsburgh, Catherine Riseng, Christopher Taylor. Staff: Ginny Trocchio.

Absent: Archer Christian.

The Chronicle survives in part through regular voluntary subscriptions to support our coverage of publicly-funded entities like the city’s greenbelt program. If you’re already supporting The Chronicle, please encourage your friends, neighbors and coworkers to do the same. Click this link for details: Subscribe to The Chronicle.

Christopher Taylor and Jean Cares at the Sept. 5, 2013 meeting of the Ann Arbor greenbelt advisory commission. (Photos by the writer.)

Cares had been confirmed by the city council on July 15 to replace Tom Bloomer, filling the slot designated for a farmer. She co-owns the Dexter Mill, and serves with Bloomer on the Webster Township farmland and open space board. Ramsburgh, who was confirmed on Aug. 8, is a development officer with the University of Michigan’s College of Literature, Science & the Arts. He also is the son of Ellen Ramsburgh, a long-time member of the Ann Arbor historic district commission, and its former chair. He replaces Dan Ezekiel, who was term limited.

The Sept. 5 meeting was in some ways a tutorial on the greenbelt program. It began with introductions of all the members, and included a presentation on conservation easements.

Ginny Trocchio, who provides staff support for the program, also reviewed the draft activity report and financial statements for fiscal 2013, which ended June 30. During the year, the greenbelt program completed 5 deals covering 448 acres of farmland in Webster, Salem, Superior and Lodi townships.

Total revenues for the open space and parkland preservation program – which includes the greenbelt as well as park acquisitions – were $2.626 million. Of that, $2.141 million came from proceeds of the program’s 30-year millage, which voters approved in 2003. Total expenses for the year were $3.357 million. In addition to $1.227 million for debt service, expenses include $1.757 million in greenbelt projects and $242,867 for parkland acquisition.

During her staff report, Trocchio highlighted upcoming on-the-road events, including a Sept. 21 bus tour of greenbelt properties that’s open to the public, and a driving tour of greenbelt land as part of the commission’s Oct. 3 meeting.

Annual Greenbelt Report

Ginny Trocchio is a staff member of The Conservation Fund who provides support to the greenbelt program under contract with the city. She briefed commissioners on the annual activity report for the city’s open space and parkland preservation program for the fiscal year 2013, which ended on June 30. [.pdf of draft fiscal 2013 activity report]

The greenbelt program and park acquisitions are funded through a 30-year 0.5 mill tax that Ann Arbor voters passed in 2003. It’s called the open space and parkland preservation millage, and appears on the summer tax bill as the line item CITY PARK ACQ.

John Ramsburgh attended his first meeting as a greenbelt advisory commissioner on Sept. 5.

The city’s policy has been to allocate one-third of the millage for parks land acquisition and two-thirds for the greenbelt program. The greenbelt advisory commission (GAC) handles the portion for land preservation outside of the city limits, while the city’s park advisory commission (PAC) oversees the funds for parkland acquisition. PAC’s land acquisition committee, of which all PAC commissioners are members, makes recommendations for parkland purchases.

To get money upfront for land acquisition, the city took out a $20 million bond in fiscal year 2006. That bond is being paid back with revenue from the millage. Debt service on that bond in FY 2013 year totaled $1.227 million. [Two debt service payments are made during the fiscal year.]

Since launching, the program has helped preserve 4,226 acres of farmland and open space. That includes 1,484 acres in Webster and Scio townships, 1,415 acres in Northfield and Ann Arbor townships, 819 acres in Salem and Superior townships, 337 acres in Lodi Township, and 89 acres in Pittsfield Township.

Trocchio noted that the average price per acre has decreased since the greenbelt program began – from over $16,000 per acre in fiscal 2006, when the first purchases were made, to just below $4,000 now.

Five transactions were completed in the last fiscal year, covering 448 acres of farmland:

• The VanNatter farm in Webster Township (total greenbelt contribution: $103,657, plus $23,867 for an endowment).
• The Hornback property in Salem Township, in partnership with Salem Township and Washtenaw County parks & recreation commission (total greenbelt contribution: $168,312, plus $23,867 for an endowment).
• The Robbin Alexander farm in Webster Township, which included grant funds from the USDA Farm and Ranchland Protection Program (FRPP) for 49% of the purchase price (total greenbelt contribution: $367,792, plus $23,867 for an endowment).
• The Robert Schultz farm in Superior Township, which also included grant funds from the federal FRPP program for 49% of the purchase price (total greenbelt contribution: $6,450, plus $23,867 for an endowment).
• A portion of the Drake farm, on the south side of Waters Road in Lodi Township, in partnership with the Washtenaw County parks & recreation commission, which contributed 20% of the purchase price (total greenbelt contribution: $476,165, plus $23,867 for an endowment).

The city received two FRPP grants totaling $396,900 – for the Robbin Alexander farm and Robert Schultz farm. Overall, the city secured an average of 60% matching funds for all greenbelt properties in fiscal 2013, Trocchio said. Since the program started, the city has averaged about 50% in matching funds.

The millage also funds parkland acquisitions. Trocchio reported that the city bought two properties in fiscal 2013, and accepted a donation from Ann Arbor Township – the Braun Nature Area, which is adjacent to the city’s Huron Parkway Nature Area. The purchases were:

• 0.91 acres along Hampstead Lane, adding to the Kuebler Langford Nature Area – at a total cost of $118,944.
• 0.35 acres along Orkney, to add to the Bluffs Nature Area – at a total cost of $120,774.

Annual Greenbelt Report: Commission Discussion

Jennifer Fike asked about projections for future funding from the USDA Farm and Ranchland Protection Program (FRPP). Ginny Trocchio replied that the latest update she’d heard was that all of the federal easement programs would be folded into one conservation easement program, but that there would continue to be funding for FRPP grants.

Stephanie Buttrey had two issues with this paragraph in the report:

The Greenbelt scoring criteria awards points to applications that provide scenic views, and visibility from major corridors frequently traveled by Ann Arbor residents. Examples of these major corridors are along the highways that surround the city, which are often an entryway into the City, or routes that are frequented by bikers. The scenic value of each of the applications will continue to be a part of the scoring criteria. Furthermore, the strategic blocks encompass major corridors, so an added benefit of forming large blocks of protected land will be preserving critical viewsheds within the Greenbelt District.

Buttrey suggested changing the word “bikers” to “bicyclists.” She also asked for clarification of the term “viewsheds.” Trocchio described a viewshed as the view of large stretches of rural properties as seen from the road. Examples of viewsheds in the greenbelt include sections along Zeeb Road, Joy Road and Whitmore Lake Road, she said.

Catherine Riseng noted that the report mentions that GAC modified its strategic plan in 2012, but it doesn’t indicate how the plan was modified. She suggested including details about how the plan was changed. [An update of the strategic plan was approved by GAC at its April 4, 2013 meeting. Changes include a new section on education and outreach, and a new goal of establishing a greenbelt registry program, to formalize relationships with landowners who aren’t yet part of the greenbelt program, but who are committed to the program’s principles of land preservation. (.pdf of updated strategic plan)]

Fiscal 2013 Financials

Commissioners were also briefed on a financial report for fiscal 2013, related to the open space and parkland preservation millage. [.pdf of financial statements]

For the year ending June 30, 2013, Trocchio reported that net revenues from the millage were $2.626 million. Most of that – $2.141 million of it – came from millage proceeds. The other main revenue source was investment income of $111,137 in FY 2013. That  compared to $176,082 in investment income the previous year.

Expenses for the year were $3.357 million. In addition to $1.227 for debt service, expenses included $1.757 million in greenbelt projects and $242,867 for parkland acquisition.

As of June 30, 2013, the fund balance stood at $8.856 million, with about equal amounts designated for the greenbelt ($4.413 million) and park acquisitions ($4.442 million). The greenbelt program also received $396,900 in reimbursements from the USDA Farm and Ranchland Protection Program (FRPP), and $5,330 in contributions – primarily a $5,000 gift from Cherry Republic.

Administrative costs of $129,966 in fiscal 2013 equate to 3.9% of total revenues. Administrative costs over the life of the millage are limited by ordinance to be no greater than 6% of revenues.

There was minimal discussion about the financial report. Jennifer Fike asked about the significant amount of expenditures in fiscal year 2011 – $8.3 million, by far the highest of any other year. Trocchio said there were about a dozen deals completed that year, which accounted for the higher expenditures.

Conservation Easements

Prior to the Sept. 5 meeting, Ginny Trocchio – who provides staff support to the greenbelt program – had surveyed commissioners about topics related to the greenbelt that they might want to learn more about. Commissioners had indicated an interest in getting an overview about conservation easements, so Trocchio gave a presentation on that topic on Sept. 5.

Ginny Trocchio of The Conservation Fund, who provides staff support for Ann Arbor’s greenbelt program.

Conservation easements are a tool that the city uses to purchase development rights, she explained. It’s a legal agreement that limits the type and amount of development that’s allowed on a property, with the intent of protecting the land as a natural area or as farmland. It’s a perpetual agreement, and remains in place regardless of who owns the land. The easement also allows the entity that holds the easement to monitor it and enforce the terms.

Trocchio noted that conservation easements can only be held by an entity that has conservation as part of its mission.

There are certain things that a conservation easement does not necessarily do, Trocchio explained. It doesn’t require public access to the land, although that can be written into the agreement. For the greenbelt program, most of the protected land is active farmland, she said, and generally it’s not open to the public. An easement doesn’t prohibit or require hunting, or require certain types of farming practices. Nor does an easement prohibit landowners from selling their land, profiting from it, or passing it on to heirs, she said.

To put a value on the conservation easement, two appraisals are done, Trocchio explained. One appraisal is for the fair market value of the property with no easement or other restrictions. The second appraisal assesses what a property is worth with an easement in place. Typically, the cost of purchasing development rights is the difference between these two amounts. There are appraisers who are specifically qualified to do these types of appraisals, she said.

Trocchio talked about the difference between easements that exist on natural areas, compared to easements on agricultural land that’s being worked by the landowner. It’s a static versus dynamic use of the property, she noted.

In some deals, the landowner makes a donation as part of the easement, and gets some tax benefits in return. For example, if the value of an easement is $200,000, the landowner might contribute $80,000 toward that amount, and then sell the development rights for $120,000 to the entity that will hold the easement – like the city of Ann Arbor.

Most of the farmers that participate in the greenbelt program use a “like-kind exchange” under section 1031 of the IRS Code, Trocchio said. The money they receive for a conservation easement would be taxed as capital gains. However, some or all of the funds can be set aside in a 1031 exchange with a third-party agent, and can then be used in the future to buy additional farmland. Funds set aside in a like-kind exchange would be tax-exempt.

Trocchio also described the steps of drafting a conservation easement, explaining that a standard template is used. She’ll meet with the landowner and family members to walk through the property, and talk about any adjustments that need to be made to the standard agreement. The deals are reviewed by the city attorney and the landowner’s attorney, as well as any of the other partners involved. This is one reason why an agreement can take several months to complete, she noted.

It’s important for the language in the agreement to be clear and precise, so that there’s no room for interpretation in the future. It should be consistent with other easements nationally, Trocchio said. The national Land Trust Alliance has standards and practices that have been developed over decades, and that provide consistency in these agreements. The easements also include photographs and maps of the property. Title work must be completed to determine legal ownership.

Jennifer Fike, a greenbelt advisory commissioner, is also finance director for the Huron River Watershed Council.

Elements of the agreement include a statement of conservation values, laying out what the easement is trying to protect. Those might include farmland, certain natural features like wetlands, or specific species of wildlife. The agreement states the conditions under which a landowner must notify the holder of the easement, Trocchio said. For example, if the landowner wants to put up a fence, the city does not need to be notified. However, if a building is proposed, that would trigger notification.

Basic restrictions of an easement typically include prohibitions on: (1) subdividing the property; (2) industrial, commercial or residential use; (3) construction of buildings; paved roads or utilities; (4) dumping; (5) active recreational use; and (6) mining or extracting resources.

Rights that are typically reserved for the landowner include use of the land for agriculture or forestry purposes, passive recreation or education, fences and seasonal structures – like hoop houses, and any existing uses or roads. The owner also has a right to sell or bequeath the property to heirs.

As the holder of the conservation easement, the city of Ann Arbor can transfer the easement to another entity. No mergers are allowed, however – meaning that the city can’t own both the easement and the property. Amendments to the easement are allowed, but they must conform to the conservation values that are stated in the document.

Landowners are allowed to use up to 2% of the easement area for future permanent agriculture-related building, within a specific area that’s designated in the agreement.

After an easement is in place, the city monitors it annually, Trocchio said. Typically that involves walking the property with the landowner to make sure that conditions comply with terms of the agreement. There have been no problems to date with property in the greenbelt program, she reported. Often issues arise after property has changed hands, and the new owners don’t fully understand the easement constraints.

For each easement agreement, the city sets aside funds for an endowment to cover the cost of staff time to monitor enforcement as well as legal costs if the easement is violated. At this point, the total endowment for all greenbelt properties is $647,030.

Conservation Easements: Commission Discussion

Stephanie Buttrey asked about a scenario in which a conservation easement exists on farmland where there are no buildings, but later the farmer decides he or she wants to put a house on the property. Would that be possible?

Catherine Riseng led her first meeting as chair of the greenbelt advisory commission. She was elected to the position at GAC’s July meeting, which she didn’t attend. There was no meeting in August.

No, Trocchio replied – no new residential building is allowed on property that is covered by a conservation easement. Typically before an easement deal is completed, she said, there are discussions about possibly excluding a small portion of the site from being covered by the easement, so that a house could be built there in the future, if desired.

Responding to a query from Jennifer Fike, Trocchio said that a structure is considered permanent if it has a concrete floor, which is an impervious surface that impacts the soil. A hoop house, which simply is placed over the soil, is considered temporary and there are no restrictions on the use of those structures.

Fike also asked about legal challenges, saying she’d heard about a national fund being developed to protect the interests of land conservancies. Trocchio reported that the Land Trust Alliance has been trying to set up a fund for member organizations. It’s important to build relationships with landowners, she added, so that when land is sold, the owner of the easement can be involved and make sure that the new owner of the land understands the conditions of the easement.

Catherine Riseng wondered if any of the landowners in the greenbelt have done like-kind exchanges. Trocchio estimated that over 50% of landowners that have easements in the greenbelt have used like-kind exchanges. The city isn’t typically involved in that, however – it’s a decision of the landowner.

Staff Report

Ginny Trocchio gave a brief staff report during the meeting. She noted that the greenbelt program would be participating in the Sept. 7 HomeGrown Festival from 6-10 p.m. at the Ann Arbor farmers market. Also, a Sept. 21 bus tour of greenbelt-protected land will run from 10 a.m. til 1 p.m. Registration is running slower than in previous years, she said, with about 20 people registered so far. The bus can accommodate about 50 people. The cost is $10. People can register by Friday, Sept. 13, by calling 734.794.6000 ext. 42798.

Trocchio also reported that the Ann Arbor city council approved two greenbelt projects at its Sept. 3, 2013 meeting: (1) the 20-acre Sheldon and Wolf property in Webster Township on Zeeb Road for a total city contribution of $82,067; and (2) a city contribution of up to $32,200 for two pieces of land owned by DF (Domino’s Farms) Land Development LLC in Ann Arbor Township. The Washtenaw County parks & recreation commission is the lead entity on that deal.

The Oct. 3 meeting of the greenbelt advisory commission will include a driving tour of greenbelt properties, Trocchio noted. Details will be worked out, and might include meeting first in council chambers, if there is any official business to conduct.

Topics for other upcoming meetings will include an overview of entities that partner with the greenbelt program, an update on the Huron River Watershed Council’s bioreserve project, long-term planning for the remaining greenbelt funds, and a joint meeting with the city’s park advisory commission.

Land Acquisition

Most meetings of the greenbelt advisory commission include a closed session to discuss possible land acquisitions. The topic of land acquisition is one allowed as an exemption by the Michigan Open Meetings Act for a closed session. On Sept. 5, commissioners met in a brief closed session, then emerged and voted on one resolution that will be forwarded to the city council.

Before appearing on the city council’s agenda, details of proposed greenbelt acquisitions are not made public. Parcels are identified only by their application number, with the first four numbers signifying the year in which the application was made.

On Sept. 5, commissioners recommended that the city council approve partnering with Washtenaw County for the purchase of development rights on a property identified in application #2012-11 and contribute up to 25% of the purchase price, not to exceed $37,995.

Outcome: Commissioners unanimously passed the resolution, which will be forwarded to the city council for consideration.

Next meeting: Thursday, Oct. 3, 2013 at 4:30 p.m. in the second-floor council chambers at city hall, 301 E. Huron. This meeting will also likely include a driving tour of greenbelt properties. [Check Chronicle event listings to confirm date] The meetings are open to the public and include two opportunities for public commentary.

Present: Shannon Brines, Stephanie Buttrey, Jean Cares, Jennifer Fike, John Ramsburgh, Catherine Riseng, Christopher Taylor. Staff: Ginny Trocchio.

Absent: Peter Allen, Archer Christian.

The Chronicle survives in part through regular voluntary subscriptions to support our coverage of publicly-funded entities like the city’s greenbelt program. If you’re already supporting The Chronicle, please encourage your friends, neighbors and coworkers to do the same. Click this link for details: Subscribe to The Chronicle.

Ann Arbor greenbelt properties. The map shows properties currently protected through Ann Arbor’s greenbelt program (smaller green areas) in the context of the greenbelt boundary (larger squarish region). Lodi Township covers the southwest corner of the greenbelt boundary area. (Data from the city of Ann Arbor mapped by The Chronicle on Aug. 3, 2013 with geocommons.com)

The award of FRPP money came in the context of the city’s greenbelt program, supported by a 0.5 mill tax approved by voters to acquire development rights on land to preserve open space.

At its Feb. 19, 2013 meeting, the council had approved an application to the FRPP for the purchase of development rights on two properties in Lodi Township – the 78-acre Donald Drake Farm on Waters Road, and for a 90-acre property owned by Carol Schumacher on Pleasant Lake Road. The city of Ann Arbor was notified recently that for the two properties, a total of $202,370 in matching dollars had been approved to fund the purchase of development rights – $50,960 for the Drake property and $151,410 for the Schumacher land.

In other greenbelt-related action taken by the council on Aug. 8, the appointment of John Ramsburgh to the city’s greenbelt advisory commission (GAC) was confirmed. The item had been postponed from the council’s July 15 meeting, which is customary for appointments to GAC. It’s one of the few boards or commissions whose members are nominated by the city council not the mayor. The usual two-step process associated with appointments – nomination at one council meeting followed by confirmation at the subsequent meeting – is mirrored for GAC appointments by postponing action on a resolution appointing a representative until the following meeting.

Ramsburgh is a development officer with the University of Michigan’s College of Literature, Science & the Arts. He also is the son of Ellen Ramsburgh, a long-time member of the Ann Arbor historic district commission, and its former chair. He is filling a position previously held by Dan Ezekiel, who was term limited.

This brief was filed from the city council’s chambers on the second floor of city hall, located at 301 E. Huron. A more detailed report will follow: [link]

From left: Ann Arbor greenbelt advisory commissioners Jennifer Fike and Archer Christian. Fike was attending her first meeting as a GAC member. (Photos by the writer.)

It was the first meeting for the newest commissioner, Jennifer Fike, who replaced Laura Rubin. The last meeting for long-time commissioners Rubin, Dan Ezekiel and Tom Bloomer was on June 6, 2013. Jean Cares, owner of the Dexter Mill, was nominated at the Ann Arbor city council’s July 1 meeting to replace Bloomer, with a confirmation vote expected by the council on July 15.

Also on July 15, John Ramsburgh’s name is expected to be put forward to replace Ezekiel, with a confirmation vote on Aug. 8. If those two appointments go through, all seats on the greenbelt advisory commission would be filled.

Commissioners elected new officers on July 11, unanimously voting for Catherine Riseng as chair and Shannon Brines as vice chair. Both work at the University of Michigan’s School of Natural Resources & Environment. Riseng, an aquatic ecologist, is a research program manager at SNRE, while Brines is manager of SNRE’s environmental spatial analysis (ESA) lab. Brines also runs Brines Farm near Dexter.

At their July 11 meeting, commissioners also received news about the city’s 2013 application to the federal Farm and Ranchland Protection Program (FRPP). The city is receiving grants totaling about $220,000 for land preservation of two properties in Lodi Township: (1) a portion of the Donald Drake farm along Waters Road; and (2) the Carol Schumacher farm along Pleasant Lake Road.

Officer Elections, New Commissioners

Officer elections for chair and vice chair of the greenbelt advisory commission are scheduled for the first meeting of the city’s new fiscal year, which began July 1. GAC’s vice chair, Catherine Riseng, was absent from the July 11 meeting but had indicated an interest in serving as chair. Former chair Dan Ezekiel was term limited, and his last meeting was in June.

Shannon Brines, who chaired the July 11 meeting in Riseng’s absence, joked about nominating himself for vice chair but was subsequently nominated by Jennifer Fike for that position.

There were no other nominations.

Outcome: On separate unanimous voice votes, Catherine Riseng and Shannon Brines were elected chair and vice chair, respectively.

Fike, the finance director of the Huron River Watershed Council, attended her first meeting as commissioner since being confirmed by the city council on June 3, 2013. She replaces Laura Rubin, HRWC’s executive director. There are two additional openings: for a farmer to replace Tom Bloomer, and for a general public position to replace Ezekiel. Bloomer, Ezekiel and Rubin were all term limited, with terms ending on June 30.

During GAC’s June 6 meeting, Bloomer had indicated that he had submitted a name for consideration to fill the farmer position.

Shannon Brines was elected vice chair of GAC, and chaired the commission’s July 11 meeting.

Subsequently, Jean Cares was nominated at the city council’s July 1 meeting to replace Bloomer, with a confirmation vote expected by the council on July 15. Cares owns the Dexter Mill, and serves with Bloomer on the Webster Township farmland and open space board.

On July 11, Christopher Taylor – who serves on the Ann Arbor city council and is the council’s representative on GAC – reported that John Ramsburgh’s name will be put forward at the council’s July 15 meeting to replace Ezekiel, with a confirmation vote expected on Aug. 8.

Ramsburgh is a development officer with the University of Michigan’s College of Literature, Science & the Arts. He also is the son of Ellen Ramsburgh, a long-time member of the Ann Arbor historic district commission, and its former chair.

Nominations for service on most city boards and commissions are made by the mayor. However, nominations for service on the greenbelt advisory commission are made by the council.

Manager’s Report

Ginny Trocchio, who provides staff support to the greenbelt program, reported that the city finally received word about the status of a 2013 application to the federal Farm and Ranchland Protection Program (FRPP). The city is receiving grants totaling about $220,000 for two properties in Lodi Township: (1) a portion of the Donald Drake farm – 72 acres along Waters Road; and (2) the Carol Schumacher farm – about 100 acres along Pleasant Lake Road.

The city council will be asked to accept these grants at its Aug. 8 meeting, followed by formal recommendations for the actual purchase of development rights later this year. Trocchio hopes to close the deals by the end of 2013.

Trocchio also noted that the greenbelt program will have a table at the Sept. 7 Homegrown Festival in Ann Arbor, and a tentative date of Sept. 21 has been set for the next greenbelt bus tour.

Land Acquisition

Most meetings of the greenbelt advisory commission include a closed session to discuss possible land acquisitions. The topic of land acquisition is one allowed as an exemption by the Michigan Open Meetings Act for a closed session. On July 11, commissioners met in a closed session that lasted about 35 minutes, then emerged and voted on two recommendations that will be forwarded to the city council.

Before appearing on the city council’s agenda, details of proposed greenbelt acquisitions are not made public. Parcels are identified only by their application number, with the first four numbers signifying the year in which the application was made.

On July 11, commissioners recommended that the city council amend a previous GAC recommendation regarding property identified in application number 2013-01. The amended recommendation is for the city to partner with Ann Arbor Township on that property and contribute up to $15,333 for the purchase of development rights – an estimated 33% of the purchase price – or to contribute up to $23,000 on the purchase of an easement, if Washtenaw County parks & recreation purchases the property outright.

The second resolution was to recommend that the city partner with Washtenaw County parks & recreation for the purchase of a deed title on a property identified by application number 2013-03 and contribute up to $32,200 toward the purchase price.

Outcome: In two separate votes, commissioners unanimously passed the resolutions. These items will be forwarded to the city council for consideration.

Next meeting: Thursday, Aug. 1, 2013 at 4:30 p.m. in the second-floor council chambers at city hall, 301 E. Huron. [Check Chronicle event listings to confirm date] The meetings are open to the public and include two opportunities for public commentary.

Present: Peter Allen, Shannon Brines, Stephanie Buttrey, Archer Christian, Jennifer Fike, Christopher Taylor. Staff: Ginny Trocchio.

Absent: Catherine Riseng.

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From left: Ann Arbor greenbelt advisory commissioners Laura Rubin and Archer Christian came to city hall by bike. This was the last meeting for Rubin, who is term limited. She and other outgoing commissioners Dan Ezekiel and Tom Bloomer were honored during GAC’s June 6 meeting. (Photos by the writer.)

Tom Bloomer, Dan Ezekiel and Laura Rubin, whose terms end this month, are term-limited. Ezekiel and Rubin are the only remaining members of the original commission, which was formed in 2004. “I’m just really, really proud of what we’ve accomplished, and of what you all will continue to accomplish,” Ezekiel, GAC’s chair, told commissioners at the end of the meeting. “I’m done being on the commission, but I’m not done with land preservation – and I’m sure Tom and Laura feel the same way.”

It was the first meeting for GAC’s newest commissioner, Stephanie Buttrey, who replaced Liz Rother. Jennifer Fike will join GAC next month to replace Rubin, but there are still two remaining vacancies. Anyone who’s interested in applying should contact their city council representative. [.pdf of application form for city boards and commissions]

An ongoing concern emerged during the June 6 meeting related to Civil War Days – a reenactment event being held this weekend at Gordon Hall in the Dexter area. A dispute over spectator parking on the land has prompted Scio Township trustees to move toward rescinding an existing conservation easement and replacing it with a new easement. The new easement would allow for parking, without a requirement to seek permission for parking each year. The property is owned by the Dexter Area Historical Society, a group that was sharply criticized by Bloomer. “Quite frankly, the Dexter Area Historical Society has been an untrustworthy partner from the very beginning,” he said, “and I don’t know why [the township board] thinks they’ll honor a new easement any more than they honored the old one.”

Although the land in question is outside of the greenbelt boundaries, it’s of interest to GAC because of the underlying issue of easement enforcement.

Commissioners were also briefed on a proposed greenbelt registry that’s being developed. The intent is create a way to formalize relationships with landowners who aren’t yet part of the greenbelt program, but who are committed to the program’s principles of land preservation.

Easement Enforcement: Civil War Days

Dan Ezekiel reported that he and Ginny Trocchio had been contacted in late May by the Scio Township land preservation commission, which was “in a bit of a crisis.” The land preservation commissioners were concerned about the conservation easement that Scio Township holds for land owned by the Dexter Area Historical Society (DAHS), where the historic Gordon Hall is located.

The pink arrow marks the location of the Gordon Hall property, where Civil War Days is being held on June 7-9, 2013. Green blocks are properties protected in part through the city of Ann Arbor’s greenbelt program. The green line with red dots is the Ann Arbor greenbelt program boundary for eligible properties. A portion of Webster Township is in the northwest corner of the greenbelt, with Scio Township to the south. (Image links to higher resolution file.)

By way of background, a “conservation easement” is a way for a municipality to preserve land without purchasing it or becoming the owner of the land. A conservation easement is a legally enforceable agreement – between a landowner and a government agency or a land trust – for the purpose of conservation.

Voters in several local municipalities – including the city of Ann Arbor, Webster Township and Scio Township – have approved millages to fund the purchase of development rights (PDR). PDR is a common mechanism for protecting undeveloped land by letting owners keep their property for farming or other specified uses but preventing its development. Development is prevented through a conservation easement.

A conservation easement restricts real estate development, commercial and industrial use, and certain other activities on a property to a level agreed to in the terms of the easement. In the case of the conservation easement on the Gordon Hall property, different parties have different perspectives on what’s allowed under terms of the easement.

Among land preservationists, it’s assumed that there might eventually be violations to terms of the easements. But if those violations happen, they’re more likely to occur when the property changes hands. So, as a part of every land preservation deal, Ann Arbor’s greenbelt program sets aside funds in an endowment, which will be used to cover expenses to monitor and enforce the greenbelt’s conservations easement – by legal action, if necessary.

In the case of the Gordon Hall property, both Scio and Webster townships hold conservation easements on the parcel, which has portions of the property in both townships. For the past two summers, the townships have allowed spectator parking there as part of the DAHS Civil Wars Days – even though land preservationists argue that parking conflicts with terms of the conservation easements. [See Chronicle coverage: "Webster Gives Ground for Civil War Days."] Parking is again allowed this year for the event, which is taking place June 7-9.

GAC commissioner Tom Bloomer – a Webster Township farmer who also serves on that township’s farmland and open space preservation board – had asked GAC to weigh in on the issue prior to last year’s Civil War Days. At GAC’s Jan. 5, 2012 meeting, commissioners passed a resolution encouraging Webster Township board to strictly enforce all of its conservation easements. [.pdf of Jan. 5, 2012 resolution]

Easement Enforcement: Civil War Days – Commission Discussion

At GAC’s June 6, 2013 meeting, Ezekiel noted that even though the land in question is outside of the greenbelt boundaries, it’s of interest because of the underlying issue of easement enforcement.

Dan Ezekiel, chair of the Ann Arbor greenbelt advisory commission.

Each year, Ezekiel said, the historical society has promised to address the problem of parking, but it’s a problem again this year. The Scio Township board was set to pass a waiver to allow parking again on the property, he said, which is why the township’s land preservation commission alerted GAC. The land preservation commission was “really up in arms about this,” Ezekiel said, and wanted a GAC representative to talk to the township board about the importance of defending easements.

The township board met on May 28. Ezekiel and some members of the township’s land preservation commission spoke at the meeting. Ezekiel reported that his remarks focused on telling the board to be careful and not to allow exceptions to the easements, “because then everybody wants one, and you’ve set a precedent.”

According to Ezekiel, the township trustees indicated that they want to rescind the current agricultural conservation easement, and create a new historical easement instead. He said the board passed a resolution to set that in motion, directing their attorney to draft the new easement. The land preservation board members indicated that they could live with this approach, he said, adding that “it’s something we need to keep our eye on and find out what actually does happen out there.”

Bloomer was more critical of the move. “I think this is a huge disappointment and a step backwards,” he said. Pursuing a new easement is no different than changing the old easement. “Quite frankly, the Dexter Area Historical Society has been an untrustworthy partner from the very beginning,” Bloomer said, “and I don’t know why [the township board] thinks they’ll honor a new easement any more than they honored the old one.”

Bloomer said he realized that it was technically none of GAC’s business. But in the past, he noted, greenbelt commissioners have discussed that if any township doesn’t defend its easements, it’s appropriate for Ann Arbor not to partner with them in the future on deals where the township is the lead agency. “I think it’s important for us to take that stand,” he said.

Ezekiel agreed, and he hoped that greenbelt commissioners would continue to keep an eye on this issue, which “can potentially be dangerous for the greenbelt.” The important thing is who holds the easement, he said. The situation is a timely wake-up call for GAC, Ezekiel added – it’s lucky that the situation is occurring outside of the greenbelt boundaries, so that GAC can learn lessons from it without being directly affected.

Right now, Scio and Webster townships are involved, Ezekiel said. But no one knows who’ll be elected in any township, so GAC needs to think carefully about who holds the easements. There are also degrees of risk, he noted. On many easements, the federal government is involved, and the easement language in those situations is very firm. That’s a different situation from the easement with DAHS, he said.

Ezekiel reported that Scio Township supervisor Spaulding Clark had called the situation a mess that was inherited from the previous township board. But Clark doesn’t think the easement language would be defensible in court, according to Ezekiel. That was one reason that Clark wanted to draw up an entirely new easement.

Peter Allen described it as an unusual situation. The Gordon Hall property is not a typical farm, he said. It’s adjacent to the village of Dexter and has an historical house, with events like the Civil War reenactment. He didn’t think it was the kind of “protect-the-easement situation we might face in the future.”

Tom Bloomer, a Webster Township farmer and GAC member.

Bloomer disagreed. The easement with Scio Township is on agricultural land, he noted, while the Gordon Hall historical building is on the Webster Township portion of the property. “There is no historical aspect to the Scio Township portion,” he said. While some people might think the easement language isn’t defensible in court, Bloomer said, it uses the same language that all conservation easements used at the time it was drawn up. “To me, it seems very clear what the intent of that easement is, which is not to infringe upon the conservation values of the agricultural land. I think there’s only one way to read that – and that’s not parking.”

Ezekiel observed that DAHS had been “very happy to take the money at the time [of the easement deal], and they signed the paperwork and went into it with their eyes wide open, and now they are basically reneging.” It shows that an elected board is going to be very reluctant to tangle with someone who is politically powerful, he said, no matter how unpleasant that person is behaving. “It almost sometimes makes township boards look better if they tangle with big, bad old Ann Arbor instead of standing up to their own residents who are violating an easement that they themselves helped draw up, sign, and take money for,” Ezekiel said.

Ezekiel also noted that the Legacy Land Conservancy had secured a legal opinion on the easement, which determined that parking is prohibited under the easement.

Trocchio reported that when this issue initially arose, she reviewed all the easements in which the greenbelt program is involved. There are only two or three instances that don’t involve a federal Farm and Ranchland Protection Program (FRPP) grant, she said. In those few instances, there are still multiple entities involved that provide multiple layers of protection. However, it’s something to keep an eye on in structuring these deals and partnerships in the future, she said.

Ezekiel said it was good to know that none of the current greenbelt easements are imperiled.

Greenbelt Registry

Commissioners had initially discussed the idea of a greenbelt registry at their April 4, 2013 meeting. On June 6, Ginny Trocchio – a Conservation Fund employee who provides staff support to the greenbelt program under contract with the city – gave an update on the project.

The concept of a greenbelt registry is laid out in the program’s strategic plan:

A land registry program is a listing of the properties that contain “special” natural features or has remained in farmland open space that landowners have voluntarily agreed to protect. This is an oral non-binding agreement between the City of Ann Arbor and the landowner. The landowner can end at any time, and the agreement does not affect the deed. The landowners agree to monitor and protect specific features of the property and notify the City if the landowner is planning on selling the property or if major threats have occurred.

The purpose of the land registry is to identify significant parcels of land and, through voluntary agreements with landowners, take the first step toward protection of the land’s natural resources. Furthermore, a land registry program recognizes landowners for protecting significant open space/natural features. Ultimately, these lands could be protected permanently through a conservation easement.

The landowner, by voluntarily agreeing to register their land, agrees to the following:

• Protect the land to the best of their ability
• Notify the City of Ann Arbor Greenbelt Staff of any significant changes they are planning or any natural changes that have occurred.
• Notify the City of Ann Arbor Greenbelt Staff of any intent to sell the property.

Trocchio reported that she’d been working on this project with commissioner Shannon Brines. They first identified which landowners and areas of the greenbelt they’d like to target for participation in the registry. The intent is to contact owners of property that the commission’s strategic plan has identified as a priority, including people that have been contacted in the past but who haven’t yet applied to the greenbelt program or completed a transaction. Trocchio noted that this includes about 20 landowners covering just over 2,400 acres.

In addition, she said, the tentative plan calls for doing a “broader sweep” across the greenbelt, contacting landowners of property that fits the program’s priorities. Those priorities include protecting larger tracts of land – 40 acres or greater – with quality soils for agriculture, and proximity to protected properties. It’s also important to fill in gaps or make connections between existing greenbelt-protected properties, she said. Those gaps are concentrated in the townships of Northfield, Salem, Superior, and Lodi. A lot of larger properties in Scio Township that might fit the greenbelt’s priorities lie outside of the greenbelt boundaries, she noted.

Ginny Trocchio, who provides staff support for the greenbelt program.

Trocchio estimated that it might be possible to protect an additional 6,000 to 7,500 acres during the remainder of the 30-year greenbelt program, assuming a modest annual increase in property values of 3%-4%, as well as the ability to secure matching funds of 25%-50% for these land preservation deals. The registry is a way to move toward this goal.

In terms of implementing a registry, the first step would be outreach, Trocchio said, so that landowners know about it. She showed commissioners a rough draft for a brochure that summarizes aspects of the registry. [.pdf of registry brochure] Public forums would be held, as well as one-on-one meetings with landowners. Trocchio reported that she’s met with several landowners over the past 6-9 months who decided that now isn’t the right time to participate in the greenbelt program, but they might be interested in a registry, she said.

Even though the registry would be a non-binding agreement, Trocchio explained, it’s important to ensure that the greenbelt advisory commission is kept apprised of it. One option is to develop a brief application, including property information and landowner contact information. Staff would review those applications and evaluate how the properties fit within the greenbelt program’s current scoring system, then bring that information to GAC. Trocchio said she’ll be working with the city administrator, Steve Powers, as well as councilmember Christopher Taylor – who serves on GAC – about the best way to inform the city council about this registry.

After landowners are enrolled in the registry, they’ll receive a framed aerial image of their property to thank them for being good stewards of the land and for keeping the land in open space and farmland. Trocchio would be compiling a database of landowners, and would contact the landowners if there are properties near them that become part of the greenbelt program. She’d also inform them of any greenbelt-related events, and would plan to meet with them at least once a year to touch base.

One question that she and Brines had for the full commission: Should landowners who participate in the registry get points for that, when they apply to have their land protected by the greenbelt program? That approach would give the landowners a bump up in priority, compared to non-registry parcels, she noted.

Greenbelt Registry: Commission Discussion

Several commissioners praised the registry. “This is fantastic,” said Peter Allen. “I think this will really open some doors for us.” He clarified with Trocchio that the plan would be to mail brochures to targeted landowners. He wondered whether the mailing would include a map showing the landowner’s specific property, in relation to land that’s already protected by the greenbelt program. Trocchio explained that the brochure will include a map showing protected properties, but it won’t be customized for each landowner. She felt the map would have sufficient detail – and that landowners would be familiar with the area – so that they could discern their land’s relationship to greenbelt properties.

Allen suggested including Trocchio’s name and picture in the brochure, along with her contact information. “To see a face will maybe get them to call you,” he said. Including a link to the greenbelt program’s website would also be helpful. He assumed that landowners would want to do some research before contacting Trocchio.

Allen also urged Trocchio to be more proactive about contacting landowners, rather than relying on a mailing and public meetings – especially for farmers with important parcels. He asked commissioner Tom Bloomer, a farmer from Webster Township, whether such an approach would be too pushy.

“Everyone’s an individual,” Bloomer replied, adding that in general, no single effort will yield results. Some landowners don’t want their neighbors to know what they’re doing, he noted, so they might not come to a public meeting. He recalled that some of the greenbelt program’s best acquisitions have come from people who didn’t attend public forums.

Greenbelt advisory commissioner Shannon Brines of Brines Farm in Webster Township, north of Dexter.

Bloomer said that reaching out in a variety of ways was important, but Trocchio shouldn’t be too aggressive – or landowners will feel targeted. Most people know that the greenbelt program exists, he added, and if they’re interested, they know how to contact Trocchio. “So I wouldn’t push too hard.” Sending out a mailing is fine, he said, but he’s on the fence about whether Trocchio should ask for one-on-one meetings. It depends on the landowner, he said.

Allen suggested the strategy of working with attorneys, accountants and other representatives of landowners – it’s another possible avenue of outreach to consider, he said. Bloomer replied that the initiative should come from the landowner.

Archer Christian asked if there would be a way to publicly honor the registrants. Trocchio said she’d need to talk to the city attorney’s office about whether registered properties could be included in the greenbelt maps. Christian thought perhaps recognition could be given at a greenbelt event.

Christian also wondered if Trocchio was planning to partner with townships in the public forums. How much had Trocchio communicated with township officials about the registry program? Trocchio replied that she hasn’t talked at length with township officials, since the details of the registry are still being worked out. The public forums would likely be held at township halls, she noted, so the townships would certainly be informed.

Catherine Riseng wondered how the greenbelt advisory commission would be involved. Would it be similar to the greenbelt program’s land acquisition process, where proposed properties are presented to GAC for review? It’s still unclear how that would work, Trocchio replied. She said she’d keep the commission up to date about who is applying. If the intent is that these properties might become part of the greenbelt in the future, she added, then it’s important that the properties in the registry meet the greenbelt program’s priorities.

Bloomer noted that Trocchio had asked for feedback about whether to award points to registry participants, if they later apply for the greenbelt program. He thought that awarding points has merit, “as long as it’s not too much.” Awarding points would be a way for landowners to see a real benefit to participating in the registry and maintaining contact with the staff, he said.

Dan Ezekiel described the registry as a best next step for the greenbelt program.

Outcome: This was not a voting item.

Manager’s Report

Ginny Trocchio, who provides staff support to the greenbelt program, reported that there’s still no word about the status of a 2013 application to the federal Farm and Ranchland Protection Program (FRPP). The application is for grants totaling about $202,000 for two properties covering 169 acres.

She also noted that the greenbelt program will have a table at the Sept. 7 Homegrown Festival in Ann Arbor.

Land Acquisition

Most meetings of the greenbelt advisory commission include a closed session to discuss possible land acquisitions. The topic of land acquisition is one allowed as an exemption by the Michigan Open Meetings Act for a closed session. On June 6, commissioners met in a closed session that lasted about 30 minutes, then emerged and voted on a recommendation that will be forwarded to the city council.

Before appearing on the city council’s agenda, details of proposed greenbelt acquisitions are not made public. Parcels are identified only by their application number, with the first four numbers signifying the year in which the application was made.

On June 6, commissioners recommended that the city council move forward on the purchase of development rights on parcels identified as application number 2013-02 and 2011-13, if federal Farm and Ranchland Protection Program (FRPP) funds are received.

Outcome: Without discussion, commissioners unanimously passed the resolution.

Commission Transitions

The June 6 meeting concluded with farewells to three long-time greenbelt advisory commissioners: Tom Bloomer, Dan Ezekiel and Laura Rubin. Their terms end this month, and because they are term-limited they can’t be reappointed. To mark the occasion, commissioners were served pie – pecan and chess – during their closed session.

GAC vice chair Catherine Riseng congratulates Dan Ezekiel, the outgoing chair, for his service.

The outgoing commissioners were also formally honored at the end of their meeting. Ezekiel, who serves as GAC’s chair, noted that the transition is historic because he and Rubin are the only remaining members of the original commission, which was formed in 2004.

Ezekiel first presented a plaque to Bloomer, saying that his expertise about farming had been invaluable. Bloomer, who owns Bur Oaks Farm in Webster Township, recalled that when Mike Garfield left GAC last year, Garfield had commented that this was one of the few endeavors he’d been involved with that went exactly as he thought it should. “I echo that,” Bloomer said. “This has been about as successful as I’d expect a program to be. I’m really grateful to have been a part of it.”

Ezekiel then gave a plaque to Rubin, noting that she had provided leadership as GAC chair for three years of her nine-year service. Rubin said she’d enjoyed serving on GAC in part because it’s been such an effective commission. The last couple of years have been particularly rewarding, she said, because she’s been able to see earlier plans come to fruition. “Especially that first year, we really struggled with ‘What did we pass?’” Rubin said, referring to the 2003 voter-approved open space and parkland preservation millage. “What was the expectation from the public in terms of farmland and open space and anti-sprawl – all the issues that were wrapped up with the greenbelt initiative?” She was proud of how far it’s come.

Catherine Riseng, GAC’s vice chair, presented Ezekiel with a plaque in honor of his nine years on the commission. Ezekiel echoed the remarks of Bloomer and Rubin, saying he felt that the commission’s collective decisions were better than what any one person could have decided. He said Rubin, Garfield and Jennifer Santi Hall had led the commission with wisdom and integrity when they served as chairs, and that he had tried to walk in their footsteps. He felt that Riseng would continue that same vision and leadership.

Ann Arbor voters acted wisely and presciently in approving the parks and greenbelt millage in 2003, Ezekiel said, and it had been a bold leap. Ann Arbor was the first community to levy a tax to protect open space and farmland outside the actual boundaries of the community, he said. Since then, there’s been a lot of progress to convert the greenbelt dream into reality. “It’s been a really interesting and exciting journey.”

The greenbelt in fine shape, Ezekiel said. Over 4,000 acres of farmland and open space have been preserved within an hour’s bike ride of downtown Ann Arbor. Matching funds from many sources have leveraged Ann Arbor’s taxpayer dollars, and three local townships – as well as Washtenaw County – have land preservation millages, too.

The registry is a logical next step to bring more properties into the pipeline, Ezekiel said. He thanked Ginny Trocchio and Peg Kohring of The Conservation Fund for their competence and professionalism, saying they are trusted by the greenbelt stakeholders. He praised the city council for expanding the greenbelt boundaries twice, and cited the program’s robust endowment that will help support the defense against easement violations in the future.

From left: Greenbelt advisory commissioners Peter Allen and Tom Bloomer, who is removing his commemorative plaque from its plastic sheath.

Even though no one predicted it, Ezekiel said, the greenbelt program was well-positioned – because of its dedicated funding source and staff – to take advantage of the drop in land values. No one could have predicted how the past nine years turned out, he said, and the next nine years will probably be just as unpredictable. But Ezekiel was quite optimistic that people will look back on the GAC’s work and say it was wise to have protected the greenbelt’s open space and farmland.

“I’m just really really proud of what we’ve accomplished, and of what you all will continue to accomplish,” Ezekiel concluded. “I’m done being on the commission, but I’m not done with land preservation – and I’m sure Tom and Laura feel the same way.”

The outgoing commissioners received a round of applause.

Riseng told her fellow commissioners that she felt quite anxious: “We’re losing our brain trust.” She thanked the three commissioners for their work in laying such a strong foundation for the greenbelt program.

Assuming that GAC follows its custom, Riseng, as vice chair, will likely become GAC chair when the commission elects officers at its July 11 meeting.

Jennifer Fike, the finance director of the Huron River Watershed Council, was confirmed by the city council on June 3, 2013 to replace Rubin – HRWC’s executive director – on GAC. There are two additional openings: for a farmer to replace Bloomer, and for a general public position to replace Ezekiel. During the June 6 meeting, Bloomer indicated that he had submitted a name for consideration to fill the farmer position, but Trocchio said no one has applied. Bloomer said he’d tell the interested party that she would need to submit a formal application.

Anyone who’s interested in applying should contact their city council representative. [.pdf of application form for city boards and commissions] Meetings for the commission are scheduled monthly, typically on the first Thursday of the month.

Next meeting: Thursday, July 11, 2013 at 4:30 p.m. in the second-floor council chambers at city hall, 301 E. Huron. [Check Chronicle event listings to confirm date] The meetings are open to the public and include two opportunities for public commentary.

Present: Peter Allen, Tom Bloomer, Shannon Brines, Stephanie Buttrey, Archer Christian, Dan Ezekiel, Catherine Riseng, Laura Rubin. Staff: Ginny Trocchio.

Absent: Christopher Taylor.

The Chronicle survives in part through regular voluntary subscriptions to support our coverage of publicly-funded entities like the city’s greenbelt program. If you’re already supporting The Chronicle, please encourage your friends, neighbors and coworkers to do the same. Click this link for details: Subscribe to The Chronicle.

From left: Ann Arbor city councilmember Christopher Taylor, Stephanie Buttrey and Ginny Trocchio, who provides staff support for the Ann Arbor greenbelt advisory commission. Taylor serves on GAC, and Buttrey is being nominated to the commission. When asked by GAC chair Dan Ezekiel, Taylor and Buttrey reported that they did not coordinate their choice of pink shirts. (Photos by the writer.)

Buttrey told commissioners that she’s a 50-year Ann Arbor resident and University of Michigan graduate who’s interested in land preservation. Dan Ezekiel – GAC’s chair – said she’ll bring common sense, business acumen and knowledge to the commission.

Ezekiel also noted that there are other vacancies that need to be filled. GAC’s June 6 meeting will be the last one for him and two other term-limited commissioners – Tom Bloomer and Laura Rubin. “So all of you people watching us breathlessly on TV, please send in your applications,” he said. [.pdf of application form for city boards and commissions]

GAC’s May 2 meeting was also attended by Barry Lonik, a land conservation consultant who is representing Ann Arbor Township in a possible greenbelt deal. He was invited into the commission’s closed session to share communications about the property.

When commissioners emerged from the closed session, they unanimously voted to recommend that the city council pursue the purchase of development rights for two properties, including one in Ann Arbor Township. Before appearing on the city council’s agenda, details of proposed greenbelt acquisitions are not made public. Parcels are identified only by their application number.

At the end of the meeting, Ezekiel marked the recent death of Charles Braun, describing him as a very influential leader in the local farm community. Braun’s property – a 286-acre farm in Ann Arbor Township – has been preserved as part of the Ann Arbor greenbelt program.

Commission Appointments

The nomination of Stephanie Buttrey had been on the city council’s April 15, 2013 agenda to replace Liz Rother, who resigned from GAC earlier this year. However, public hearings on two controversial topics – the proposed 413 E. Huron project and possible changes to the ordinance governing the Ann Arbor Downtown Development Authority – pushed the council’s meeting to 3 a.m., so several items on the agenda were postponed until May 6. One of those items was Buttrey’s nomination. She is being nominated to serve out the remainder of Rother’s term through June 30, 2014.

Buttrey attended GAC’s May 2 meeting and spoke briefly to commissioners. She described herself as a 50-year Ann Arbor resident who attended Burns Park Elementary, Tappan Middle School and Pioneer High, where she met her husband. She also earned an engineering degree from the University of Michigan.

Buttrey worked for Chrysler, and described how at one point she would commute down Ann Arbor-Plymouth Road. The route took her past two properties that are now protected, including a farm. At the time there was an article in the Ann Arbor News about the farm having sold its development rights. [The purchase of development rights (PDR) is a common method of protecting land from being developed.]

The article quoted the farmer, who said he had received a couple of nasty letters that criticized him for not selling the property to developers. Buttrey said she wrote a letter to the farmer, thanking him for not selling the land to developers and telling him how driving past it gave her “a big sigh of relief after a long day at work. I’m able to drive home – I can see farm, I can see fields, I can see barns – … and I’m hoping there are others who enjoy seeing this open space.”

Stephanie Buttrey, who’s being nominated to replace Liz Rother on the Ann Arbor greenbelt advisory commission.

She said the story reflects that “greenbelt thinking” has been on her mind for many years. After retiring from her 30-year career at Chrysler five years ago, Buttrey began looking for volunteer work and started volunteering at the Women’s Center of Southeastern Michigan, but is now ready to do more. She noted that she had taken two of the annual greenbelt bus tours. “I was just astonished to learn the amount of effort that had gone into buying development rights and preserving different kinds of properties, and always in conjunction with other governmental organizations.”

“I thought, well, this is where my money’s going to – I think that’s great, and maybe I can help out,” she said.

Buttrey noted that although she doesn’t have any natural area expertise, she’s an engineer with an MBA and could bring her critical thinking and enthusiasm to the commission.

Dan Ezekiel asked Buttrey to talk about the property she helped preserve in the city of Ann Arbor. She told commissioners that she lives near Packard and Platt, and several years ago brought property from a neighbor and then sold it to the city. It’s now Redwood Park.

Ezekiel said he was delighted that Buttrey is joining the commission. He noted that she had been a fairly high-ranking executive at Chrysler with international responsibilities, and will bring a lot of common sense, business acumen and knowledge to the commission.

As a point of interest, Ezekiel also noted that “at one time, for a brief moment many decades ago, Stephanie, Catherine [Riseng] and I were all on the same softball team.” Riseng serves as GAC’s vice chair.

Appointments by the city council are usually handled in a two-meeting process. But given the postponement of Buttrey’s nomination at the April 15 council meeting, Christopher Taylor indicated that a vote to confirm her appointment would likely occur on May 6, at the same meeting when her nomination is officially made.

“I’ll see that we get this done in one swoop,” Taylor said. The resolution nominating Buttrey is sponsored by Taylor.

Ezekiel noted that there are other vacancies as well. GAC’s June 6 meeting will be the last one for him, Laura Rubin and Tom Bloomer. Jennifer Fike – who attended the commission’s April 4, 2013 meeting to introduce herself – is expected to replace Rubin, filling a slot designated for an environmental organization. Fike is finance director for the Huron River Watershed Council. Rubin serves as HRWC’s executive director.

The positions of Bloomer and Ezekiel are designated for a farmer and representative from the general public, respectively.

Anyone who’s interested in applying should contact their city council representative. [.pdf of application form for city boards and commissions] Meetings for the commission are scheduled monthly, typically on the first Thursday of the month.

Communications & Commentary

During the meeting there are several opportunities for communications from commissioners and staff, as well as two opportunities for public commentary. Here are the highlights.

Communications & Commentary: Manager’s Report

Ginny Trocchio, a Conservation Fund employee who provides staff support to the greenbelt program under contract with the city, reported that there’s still no word about the status of a recent application to the federal Farm and Ranchland Protection Program (FRPP). The application is for grants totaling about $202,000 for two properties covering 169 acres.

The government relations staff of the Conservation Fund recently held a roundtable discussion at its headquarters with the FRPP director, Jeremy Stone. Trocchio participated via conference call and said she told Stone about Ann Arbor’s greenbelt program. “He was really impressed and amazed at how much we’ve been able to do here surrounding the city of Ann Arbor,” she said. She followed up by sending him a map that showed properties protected under the program, including those using FRPP grants. “His response was that preserving land around an urban area is exactly the type of program that FRPP is looking to support,” Trocchio said. “It’s nice to be able to raise his attention about what we’re doing here.”

Trocchio also reported that she had sent some Rabble Roasters to the meeting with Stone. Rabble Roasters are dry-roasted soynuts made by Bur Oaks Farm in Webster Township, which is owned by greenbelt commissioner Tom Bloomer. The farm is part of the greenbelt programs that’s been protected with FRPP funds.

Communications & Commentary: Public Commentary

Barry Lonik, a local conservation consultant from Dexter, told commissioners that he had visited the Scio Woods Preserve that morning. It’s part of the Washtenaw County natural areas preservation program, purchased with the help of Ann Arbor greenbelt funds. He said he hadn’t been there since trails were built, and “it’s absolutely gorgeous.”

From left: Barry Lonik, a local conservation consultant, talks with Dan Ezekiel, chair of the Ann Arbor greenbelt advisory commission.

He encouraged commissioners and others to visit the preserve. It’s about 100 acres off of Scio Church Road, with rolling hills, streams, big trees, and flowers carpeting the ground, he said. Ann Arbor, Scio Township and the county contributed funds toward it, he added, “and it was just a terrific purchase.”

Dan Ezekiel, GAC’s chair, noted that he had received an email recently from someone who had seen a couple of pileated woodpeckers at the Scio Woods Preserve. If that area had been developed for housing, he said, it’s possible those pileated woodpeckers – which he noted are uncommon in this county – wouldn’t have made a home there.

Ezekiel also noted that Lonik was on hand representing Ann Arbor Township, and would accompany the commission into closed session to talk about possible land acquisition. Lonik would share some communication with commissioners about a township property, but wouldn’t stay for their deliberations, Ezekiel said, adding that this process had been run by the city attorney’s office.

Communications & Commentary: Charles Braun

At the conclusion of the meeting, Dan Ezekiel marked the recent death of Charles Braun, describing him as a very influential leader in the local farm community. Braun’s property – a 286-acre farm in Ann Arbor Township – has been preserved as part of the Ann Arbor greenbelt program.

Ezekiel noted that the Brauns initially approached land preservation skeptically, “but they embraced it in the end.” The Brauns had hosted a gathering for the greenbelt program in the past to honor local farmers who had preserved their land through selling their development rights. Ezekiel said the commission mourned Braun’s passing.

Land Acquisition

Most meetings of the greenbelt advisory commission typically include a closed session to discuss possible land acquisitions. The topic of land acquisition is one allowed as an exemption by the Michigan Open Meetings Act for a closed session. On May 2, commissioners met in a closed session that lasted about 45 minutes, then emerged and voted on two recommendations that will be forwarded to the city council.

Before appearing on the city council’s agenda, details of proposed greenbelt acquisitions are not made public. Parcels are identified only by their application number, with the first four numbers signifying the year in which the application was made.

Commissioners recommended that the city partner with Ann Arbor Township and contribute 33% toward the purchase of development rights on a parcel identified as application number 2013-01.

In a separate resolution, commissioners recommended that the council proceed with the purchase of development rights for application number 2012-12, if at least 20% in matching funds are secured.

Outcome: In separate votes, commissioners passed both resolutions unanimously.

Next meeting: Thursday, June 6, 2013 at 4:30 p.m. in the second-floor council chambers at city hall, 301 E. Huron. [Check Chronicle event listings to confirm date] The meetings are open to the public and include two opportunities for public commentary.

Present: Tom Bloomer, Shannon Brines, Archer Christian, Dan Ezekiel, Catherine Riseng, Laura Rubin, Christopher Taylor. Staff: Ginny Trocchio.

Absent: Peter Allen.

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Jennifer Fike, finance director of the Huron River Watershed Council, is interested in joining the greenbelt advisory commission. If nominated and confirmed by the city council, she would replace Laura Rubin, HRWC’s executive director, whose term on the commission ends in June. (Photos by the writer.)

The plan lays out a broad range of goals for the preservation of farmland and open space within the greenbelt boundaries. There are no significant changes from the last version approved in 2009, although the plan does include a new section on education and outreach.

The plan also includes the goal of establishing a greenbelt registry program, to formalize relationships with landowners who aren’t yet part of the greenbelt program, but who are committed to the program’s principles of land preservation. “It’s creating a pipeline of projects for the future,” said Dan Ezekiel, GAC’s chair. Three commissioners – Peter Allen, Shannon Brines and Archer Christian – agreed to work with Ginny Trocchio, who manages the greenbelt program, to develop a proposal for the full commission to consider.

Also at the April 4 meeting, Jennifer Fike – finance director for the Huron River Watershed Council – was introduced as a possible replacement on the commission for Laura Rubin. Rubin, who serves as HRWC’s executive director, fills a position on GAC that’s designated for an environmental organization. Her term ends on June 30. Because she is term-limited, she can’t be re-appointed.

Ezekiel noted that there are other vacancies as well, and that anyone who’s interested in applying should contact their city council representative. [.pdf of application form for city boards and commissions] Meetings for the commission are scheduled monthly, although the April meeting was only GAC’s second one in 2013. Both the January and March meetings were canceled.

Strategic Plan

Commissioners and staff have been working on an update of the greenbelt program’s strategic plan for several months. Proposed revisions to the strategic plan were discussed at GAC’s Sept. 6, 2012 meeting, but commissioners had not yet approved it.

At GAC’s Dec. 6, 2012 meeting, Ginny Trocchio – who provides support staff for the program – had reported that she had hoped to get input on proposed revisions to the greenbelt program’s strategic plan at the November meeting of Preserve Washtenaw, but that meeting had been canceled. Preserve Washtenaw is a consortium of local land preservation groups, including the Legacy Land Conservancy, Washtenaw County’s natural areas preservation program, and several township programs. Subsequently, GAC’s January 2013 meeting was canceled.

On Feb. 7, Trocchio told commissioners that she was still waiting for feedback. She expected to bring the strategic plan back to GAC for consideration at their March 7 meeting. That March meeting was also canceled.

On April 4, Trocchio reported that no significant changes had been made, based on feedback from the program’s partners. The plan is consistent with what other land preservation groups are doing, in terms for scoring criteria and priorities. She also noted that there weren’t many changes from the previous version of the strategic plan, which was adopted in 2009. The main change is adding a description of how the program fits in with the local economy, because so much has changed over the past few years. Also new is a section on education and outreach.

Excerpts from the strategic plan include the following, from the section on farmland preservation:

Although there is currently little development pressure in the area, due to the downturn in the real estate market and overall economic conditions over the last several years, over the next 3-5 years, the Greenbelt Program will continue to focus on forming 1000-acre blocks -or larger- of protected farms of varying sizes in order to create a diverse farmland base to insure the long term viability of agriculture for future producers. Thus, this strategic plan recommends a major emphasis on purchasing development rights from farmers.

While it is difficult to assign a percentage of focus of the Greenbelt acquisitions, as the program is dependent upon applications, the Greenbelt Program will strive to have approximately 90 percent of the funds focused on preserving blocks of land.

Recognizing that the Greenbelt’s mission is solely the protection of land, the Greenbelt program will make a priority to protect those farms that are producing foods for Ann Arbor markets and consumers.

From the section on open space preservation:

Applications received either along the Huron River or which contain tributaries of the Huron River will be a priority for the Greenbelt, recognizing the significance of the Huron River to the Ann Arbor residents as their source of drinking water.

The Greenbelt scoring criteria awards points to applications that provide scenic views, and visibility from major corridors frequently traveled by Ann Arbor residents. Examples of these major corridors are along the highways that surround the city, which are often an entryway into the City, or routes that are frequented by bikers.

The Greenbelt will continue to seek partnership opportunities with Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation to provide additional recreation opportunities for Ann Arbor residents. In addition, the Greenbelt will prioritize applications with additional recreation opportunities or along major bike path corridors identified by the County.

From the section on leveraging funds:

Given the decrease in land values over the past few years, the Greenbelt Advisory Commission feels that the benefit of State and Federal assistance may not always outweigh the costs of doing business with these agencies. We still place a priority on leveraging funds, but will consider applications that do not meet the State and Federal grant criteria.

After the plan receives approval from GAC, it would be forwarded to the city council as an item of information. [.pdf of draft revised strategic plan] [.pdf of 2009 version of Ann Arbor greenbelt district strategic plan]

Strategic Plan: Commission Discussion

Several commissioners praised the updated plan, and had only a few suggestions. Peter Allen, who served on the subcommittee that worked on the revisions, noted that the data used in some of the charts was outdated. “Is there any way to get more recent data than 2007?” he asked.

No, Trocchio replied. The charts with information on Washtenaw County livestock and crops is based on 2007 data collected by the USDA agriculture census, which is done every five years. The more recent data from 2012 won’t be available until later this year or early next year, she said. In that case, Allen suggested putting a note to indicate that 2007 is the most recent data available. Otherwise, it creates a credibility issue, he said, with people questioning why the data is old.

Dan Ezekiel noted that the maps and a chart included in the strategic plan should be updated to reflect the most recent land preservation deals. He also pointed out that the chart listing sources of potential matching funds should be updated to reflect a contribution from Salem Township.

Washtenaw County land preservation programs.

Allen observed that the plan will be forwarded to the city council and posted on the greenbelt program’s website. He wondered how it would be distributed to the public.

Trocchio said she could send out an email blast to people who have signed up for greenbelt notifications on the city’s website. Allen suggested also sending it to the townships and other greenbelt partners, as well as the media.

Outcome: Commissioners unanimously recommended approval of the greenbelt program’s strategic plan.

Greenbelt Registry

After approving the strategic plan, commissioners then addressed one of the plan’s recommendations: Establishing a greenbelt registry program.

Dan Ezekiel noted that the strategic plan addresses the transition and changing emphasis from pure acquisition to stewardship of the existing greenbelt. One part of that would be setting up a registry, he said, and so GAC needs to form a subcommittee to work with Ginny Trocchio on developing a proposal for that.

Trocchio gave some additional background, describing the registry as a more formal mechanism to develop relationships with landowners. A lot of land trusts nationwide have this kind of program, she noted.

From the updated strategic plan:

In addition, recognizing that over the next 3-5 years, the Greenbelt will likely shift in program focus and will not be able to acquire as many properties or easements annually, it is important that the Commission maintain contact with landowners in the Greenbelt District who may be interested in protecting their land in the future. Therefore, the Greenbelt will prioritize establishing a Greenbelt Registry Program.

A land registry program is a listing of the properties that contain “special” natural features or has remained in farmland open space that landowners have voluntarily agreed to protect. This is an oral non-binding agreement between the City of Ann Arbor and the landowner. The landowner can end at any time, and the agreement does not affect the deed. The landowners agree to monitor and protect specific features of the property and notify the City if the landowner is planning on selling the property or if major threats have occurred.

The purpose of the land registry is to identify significant parcels of land and, through voluntary agreements with landowners, take the first step toward protection of the land’s natural resources. Furthermore, a land registry program recognizes landowners for protecting significant open space/natural features. Ultimately, these lands could be protected permanently through a conservation easement.

The landowner, by voluntarily agreeing to register their land, agrees to the following:

• Protect the land to the best of their ability
• Notify the City of Ann Arbor Greenbelt Staff of any significant changes they are planning or any natural changes that have occurred.
• Notify the City of Ann Arbor Greenbelt Staff of any intent to sell the property.

Trocchio said the subcommittee would consider how targeted the registry should be – mass mailings versus working with individual landowners directly, for example. Other issues include how the information should be tracked, and how landowners should be honored and recognized for keeping the land in agricultural or open space. She noted that she already has informal relationships with several landowners who aren’t yet part of the greenbelt program. This registry would be a way to formalize that relationship.

Greenbelt Registry: Commission Discussion

Archer Christian asked what the timeline would be for this project. Trocchio said a timeline would be determined by the subcommittee. She also noted that the idea of a registry has been discussed for several years. Now, “we’re getting to the bottom of the market,” Trocchio said, in terms of declining land values. Appraisals are coming back with low valuations, so landowners are deciding to wait until land values increase before selling their development rights to the city.

Shannon Brines of Brines Farm in Dexter will serve on a subcommittee to develop a greenbelt registry program.

Peter Allen asked Trocchio what percentage of farmers she already has contact with, even if they aren’t currently part of the greenbelt program. He wondered if there were a lot of farmers out there who don’t have contact with the program in any way. Trocchio replied that there are definitely some major landowners who don’t have any connection to the greenbelt program. Property is always changing hands, so there are also new people who might not know about the program.

Allen wondered how long it would take to create the registry, and how many people might be on it, when completed. Trocchio estimated it could take a couple of months to put together. She said for the first year, a goal might be to have 10-15 landowners on the registry, eventually with 20-30 landowners enrolled.

She clarified that it’s not just a roster with hundreds of names and contact information. Rather, the registry is a “relationship list,” she said.

Ezekiel reported that this idea has been floated in the past, but until now most staff time has been spent on active acquisition. “This is kind of a bridge to the future, and more visionary,” he said. He imagined that the greenbelt program could give landowners on the registry an aerial photo of their property and a certificate thanking them for being good stewards of their land. Then 20-30 years later, the landowners might have that relationship in mind and decide to preserve their land permanently through the greenbelt. “It’s creating a pipeline of projects for the future,” Ezekiel said.

Commissioners will be transitioning from their roles as giving oversight on land acquisition to becoming ambassadors between the greenbelt stakeholders, Ezekiel said, including the taxpayers who are financing the program. He viewed the registry as a top priority, but said he couldn’t volunteer for the subcommittee because his term was ending.

Peter Allen, Archer Christian and Shannon Brines volunteered for the subcommittee. Allen disagreed that Ezekiel couldn’t be on it too – indicating that Ezekiel’s institutional memory would be valuable. Ezekiel responded: “I’d be more than happy to help.”

Outcome: This was not a voting item.

Commission Appointments

Three commissioners – Tom Bloomer, Dan Ezekiel, and Laura Rubin – are term limited and will not be reappointed when their current terms end on June 30, 2013.

Rubin, who serves as executive director of the Huron River Watershed Council, fills a position on GAC that’s designated for an environmental organization. At GAC’s April 4 meeting, she introduced Jennifer Fike, who’s interested in replacing Rubin on the commission. Fike is the finance director for HRWC.

Rubin noted that Fike has a strong expertise in the local food sector, as former director of the Food System Economic Partnership (FSEP). Fike has experience with farm-to-school programs and local farmers, as well as familiarity with national issues in that area. She also has a strong financial and administrative background, Rubin noted.

Laura Rubin, executive director of the Huron River Watershed Council, has served on the Ann Arbor greenbelt advisory commission since 2004 and is term limited. Her current term ends on June 30, 2013.

Fike told commissioners that she was interested in serving on GAC. She’s currently on the board of the Legacy Land Conservancy, and was previously the treasurer of the Southeast Michigan Land Conservancy. She was also appointed by Gov. Jennifer Granholm to the Michigan Commission of Agriculture & Rural Development. Fike said she has a strong interest in land preservation, and hopes to bring her skills and expertise to the greenbelt advisory commission.

Peter Allen asked Fike for her opinion about GAC’s work, and what she’d like to do on the commission. He also wondered if there were any trends she’s seen that commissioners should be aware of.

Fike replied that she’s been involved in trying to expand the market for smaller farms in the region. There’s been huge growth in farms selling to local markets in Washtenaw County, she said, and she sees that trend continuing. “It’s great to see that interest and effort from young people going into farming,” Fike said. Land costs can be an obstacle, she noted, and a focus at FSEP had been to help new farmers get started.

Dan Ezekiel thanked Fike for her interest in serving on the commission. He noted that greenbelt commissioners are both nominated and confirmed by the city council. [For most other city commissions, members are nominated by the mayor and confirmed by the council.] Ezekiel said there are other GAC vacancies as well, so anyone who’s interested in applying for the position should contact their city council representative. [.pdf of application form for city boards and commissions]

Ezekiel fills an at-large position. Bloomer’s position is for a farmer; he owns Bur Oaks Farm in Webster Township.

Another at-large position is currently vacant, following the resignation earlier this year of Liz Rother. She had been appointed in 2011 for a term ending June 30, 2014.

Staff Update

During her staff update, Ginny Trocchio reported that the city has submitted an application to the federal Farm and Ranchland Protection Program (FRPP) for grants totaling about $202,000 for two properties covering 169 acres. She talked to the program coordinator in Lansing, who said there had been 18 applications in Michigan, requesting a total of $2.5 million in grants. For Michigan, only $1.8 million in FRPP funds are available this year. However, additional funds are being requested from other states that don’t spend their FRPP allotment, Trocchio said, “so we’re hoping that more money will come to Michigan.” Trocchio expects to hear about whether the Ann Arbor greenbelt will receive its requested funding within a couple of months.

Shannon Brines asked if any other local entities applied. Trocchio reported that the Washtenaw County natural areas preservation program has applied for an FRPP grant, as did Scio Township. There might be others as well, she said.

Laura Rubin wondered if there was any information about the future of the FRPP program. Will funding be decreased because of the sequester?

Trocchio replied that as far as she knew, no funding would be cut that’s already been obligated. So the $1.8 million available for Michigan grants is still available. “As far as future years, I don’t know yet,” she said.

Closed Session: Land Acquisition

Commissioners spent about 30 minutes at the end of their April 4 meeting in closed session to discuss possible land acquisitions, which is one of the reasons for a closed session  allowed by the Michigan Open Meetings Act. When they emerged from closed session, there was no further action and the meeting was adjourned.

Next meeting: Thursday, May 2, 2013 at 4:30 p.m. in the second-floor council chambers at city hall, 301 E. Huron. [Check Chronicle event listings to confirm date] The meetings are open to the public and include two opportunities for public commentary.

Present: Peter Allen, Tom Bloomer, Shannon Brines, Archer Christian, Dan Ezekiel, Catherine Riseng, Laura Rubin. Staff: Ginny Trocchio.

Absent: Christopher Taylor.

The Chronicle survives in part through regular voluntary subscriptions to support our coverage of publicly-funded entities like the city’s greenbelt program. If you’re already supporting The Chronicle, please encourage your friends, neighbors and coworkers to do the same. Click this link for details: Subscribe to The Chronicle.