Northside Nature Preserve

General

Owned by a private conservation interest group, Nature's Trust.
As part the 2005 Summer Festival, the Solstice Gambol trekked thru or near this region.
Subject of recent controversy and public protest regarding development of the preserve in early 2005.

In March 2005, approved for sale to real estate developers.
- The sale was approved by a close vote on the council, 5-4, with Camryn Scott casting the deciding vote
- All monies from the sale will go into the city's general fund
- A Protection League was setup to try and stop the sale of the land.
- Vote was supported by such developers as Mobius Development Corp
In April 2005, a protest was staged, and many were arrested, including Academy professor Estelle Sedgewick
In June 2005, this area was purchased by The Nature's Trust, effectively ending the probability of development in the area.
- This vote was approved with a 6-3 vote by the the City Council.
- As part of the sale agreement, a portion of the money going to the city must be spent in renovating parts of The Old Town.
- Nature's Trust, however, do not plan to build on the Northside property at all.
On July 26th 2005, a protest was staged in which 350 individuals rallied against soaring real estate prices
- City Council member Nathan Earlywine reminded protesters of the Northside development plan, which was to reduce these prices.

21-MAR-05 - At a press conference, City Council Leader Camryn Scott announces the Northside Nature Preserve is open for sale to real estate developers (link)
11-APR-05 - 2,000 protestors gather in Polygon Park, police arrest the five major speakers and organisers at the protest (link)
13-JUN-05 - Sale of the Northside Preserve is approved by a 6-3 vote, to a private conservation interest group, Nature's Trust, effectively killing all debate of development.
29-JUN-05 - The Brotherhood of the Six publicly supports building in The Old Town (over alternative sites such as the Northside)
26-JUL-05 - 350 Youth protest skyrocketing housing prices; are reminded of the Northside Development Plan.