Arapahoe County has hired Greenways Inc. to use this information, as well as other research to prepare a countywide Open Space Master Plan which will serve as a guide for making strategic decisions about the program's future. If you are unable to attend the open house you can review the project resources and provide your input online at www.greenways.com/arapahoe.

"Never in my wildest imagination did I dream that we've have so many opportunities to make a difference in our communities with our Open Space program, and now it's time to look to the future," said Susan Beckman, who serves as the Chair of the Board of Arapahoe County Commissioners. "The information we gather from residents will help us create a 100-year vision, 20-year master plan and 5-year action plan."

Thanks to voters who generously approved the Arapahoe County open space sales and use tax in 2003, Arapahoe County already has made a real impact in cities, towns and neighborhoods, funding projects that preserve and enhance parks, trails and open spaces throughout the County.

For every $1 spent in Arapahoe County, a quarter-of-a-penny is used to preserve urban and rural open space and natural areas; protect lands that preserve water quality; provide, maintain and improve neighborhood parks, sports fields, picnic facilities and multi-use trails; protect wildlife habitat and corridors; preserve agriculture and ranchlands; and enhance and maintain designated heritage areas.

The tax collection began Jan. 1, 2004 and is set to expire Dec. 31, 2013 unless citizens vote "yes" to continue the program during a ballot question reauthorization.

For more information about the open house, open space program and master plan, go to www.greenways.com/arapahoe or call Bob Finch with Arapahoe County Open Space at 720-874-6734.