Nonproﬁt OrganizationU.S. Postage PaidHailey, IDPermit No. 48

Citizens for Smart Growth

po box 2112hailey, id 83333citizens for smart growth is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation

April 30, 2010

Supporters of Citizens for Smart Growth:

After over 12 years of serving the Wood River Valley, Citizens for Smart Growth is sadly closing its doors. Our Board of Directors and Staff have agreed the organization is notfinancially sustainable in the current economic climate. The “smart growth” movement started in the 1990’s to prevent the environmental, social,and economic consequences of poorly planned growth, often called sprawl. In 1997, a localgroup of concerned citizens created Citizens for Smart Growth to promote smart growthprinciples throughout Blaine County and empower citizens to get more involved in land useplanning. Over the years, Smart Growth pursued these core objectives:• Encourage citizen and stakeholder participation in land use decisions• Strengthen and direct development toward existing communities• Create walkable, bicycle-friendly, and transit-oriented communities• Support a range of housing opportunities and choices• Make development decisions fair, predictable, and transparent• Foster attractive communities with a strong sense of place• Protect wildlife habitat, working farms and ranches, and outdoor recreation• Promote a strong and diverse local economy To some degree, Smart Growth has become a victim of its own success, often less visible tothe public,

in elevating smart growth principles into the decision-making process. We havebeen encouraged to continually hear citizens and elected officials embrace smart growthideas. It’s a wonderful compliment for an advocacy organization.One of the greatest challenges we faced as an organization—besides fundraising—wasinspiring people to get involved in local land-use planning. Public participation is crucial for shaping vibrant and sustainable communities. We encourage you to get involved inchoosing the future of your community!We look to the people, nonprofit organizations, local governments, and other groups inBlaine County to continue our vision for vibrant communities, consistent with the elementsof smart growth. In past economic downturns, property values in Blaine County havebecome stagnant only to rebound with a fury and along with that enormous pressure for sprawl. The need for vigilance and strong community advocacy has not diminished.On behalf of Staff and the Board of Directors, thank you for all your support over the years!Sincerely,

Nathan Welch Kristen OlenickExecutive Director Director of Operations

president

Sue Petersen

vice president

Nick Price

treasurer/secretary

Steve Wolper

board of directors

Doug AbromeitErik Leidecker Ali LongSara MechamHerb ThomasMichael WisePriscilla WoodsBen Young

executive director

Nathan Welch

director of operations