SierraScape March 2016 - August 2016
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by Caroline Pufalt
Conservation Chair
Eastern Missouri Group

On April 5, voters in St. Louis City will decide whether to retain the Earnings Tax.

The Eastern Missouri Group of the Sierra Club endorses retention of the St. Louis City Earnings Tax. The funds obtained support environmental programs and maintenance of a vital urban core.

The city of St Louis owns and operates 105 parks, including Forest Park. As a result, residents of the entire metro region enjoy nearby hiking, bird watching, nature study, and sports activities. The monies in the General Fund support recycling, tree maintenance, composting, and environmentally friendly policies throughout city government. Adequate funding of city services helps to ensure a strong urban core, which reduces sprawl. Sprawl in turn increases pollution, reduces wildlife habitat, and negatively impacts the quality of life.

We urge residents of St. Louis City to vote YES to retain the Earnings Tax April 5th.