TMVS: Community Votes to Condemn Valley Floor; Green Space Prevails for this National Historic Trust Land.

Business Editors/Environmental Writers

Voters of Telluride, Colorado, endorsed the condemnation of the community's treasured Valley Floor, ensuring the continued green space which lines the entry to this mountain resort nestled at the base of a spectacular boxed canyon. Yesterday's vote of 609 to 385 advances the condemnation process of this pristine property which was listed on America's 11 Most Endangered Historic Places in 2001.

Celebrities and politicians came out in support of this issue, which will allow Telluride the opportunity to purchase the land, through condemnation procedures, from the 19-year owner of the property, San Miguel Valley Corporation. Part-time residents, frequent visitors and proponents such as Tom Cruise, Daryl Hannah, Richard Holbrooke, Val Kilmer and Bruce Babbitt openly supported the preservation of this parcel of land through letters and public statements.

Endorsements also came from organizations such as Sheep Mountain Alliance, The National Trust for Historic Preservation, San Miguel Democrats, Telluride's local newspaper The Daily Planet and others in an effort to preserve the precious wetlands on the valley floor.

The approved ordinance stipulates the land will be used only for recreational purposes such as trails for nature walks, hiking, biking and running; cross-country skiing; landing areas for hanggliders and paragliders; parking for festivals; and, temporary uses not requiring land improvements or permanent structures.

Telluride voters positioned the community uniquely in 1993 when they approved a progressive Open Space philosophy. Environmental values are strongly adhered to by the community as mandated through that election which resulted in a set-aside expenditure equaling 20% of all town revenues to be used for the acquisition and protection of open space. The revenues are generated from the town's venues including sales, real estate and property taxes, and business license fees. Last year $1.2 million accrued in the fund bringing the total fund balance to exceed $5 million by the end of 2002.

A high resolution photograph of the Valley Floor titled "Flowers in Box Canyon" is available for reproduction and download via the Internet at www.visittelluride.com or www.kruzic.com. Photos and information about festivals, hiking, biking and culinary offerings to delight all ages and senses in Telluride and Mountain Village are available at www.visittelluride.com or call Telluride Mountain Visitor Services: 1-888-783-0257.