Democrats speak out in support of Bloomington environment

Democratic mayoral candidate Mark Kruzan, along with District IV representative Dave Rollo, addressed a crowd of approximately 50 people on the steps of Bloomington's City Hall Friday. \nThe gathering included a mix of Bloomington citizens, from those simply passing by on their way in to City Hall, to people decked out in red "Mark Kruzan for Mayor" buttons and passing out car decals in support of the candidate. The loud rustling of fallen leaves and the appearance of fresh fall jackets seemed to fit with the message of the two speakers. With a towering yellow crane and a construction site as their backdrop, the two addressed the issue of preserving Bloomington's natural beauty.\nRollo addressed the crowd concerning his plan for a greenspace acquisition fund that he said would "purchase and preserve tracts of remaining greenspace within the city for the benefit of Bloomington citizens and our local environment."\nRollo cited a recent Parks & Recreation Department survey of Bloomington citizens in support of his plan. The survey found that Bloomington residents identify greenspace preservation as an important issue worthy of public spending.\n"Through a greenspace acquisition fund we have an opportunity to do what is needed for future prosperity and what is desired by a substantial majority of Bloomington citizens," Rollo said.\nAfter Rollo outlined his plan, Kruzan spoke of his similar hope that Bloomington will be able to implement procedures to help the city preserve its natural beauty. The mayoral candidate cited an experience he had as a youth that he said conveyed the importance of this issue.\n"When I was in school, we actually had field trips to go see nature," Kruzan said. "Although I don't think we've gotten to the point of visiting tree museums, it is important. I think the city of Bloomington has done an excellent job of preserving park space."\nAfter speaking, Kruzan and Rollo both answered questions from the crowd. Kruzan then closed the conference by thanking those in attendance.\n"The thing that makes me so pleased is to see so many of you here today," Kruzan said, "Your attendance shows that Bloomington is a community that cares."\n-- Contact staff writer Sarah Schwimmer at sschwimm@indiana.edu.