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A Resolution requesting that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) keep Cook Recreation Area public.
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WHEREAS, Metro Nashville residents need access to green space as our county's population continues to increase; and
WHEREAS, District 12 has green space known as Cook Recreation Area that encompasses 220 acres on the J. Percy Priest Reservoir and is under the purview of the Army Corps of Engineers (USACE); and
WHEREAS, the land that is now Cook Recreation Area was originally private property and was taken by imminent domain to ensure flood control and recreation for the public at taxpayer expense; and
WHEREAS, Cook Recreation Area includes a day-use area that includes fee and non-fee areas and a 57-site RV campground that was closed in 2004 due to low use and the need for infrastructure upgrades; and
WHEREAS, Nashville's growing population since 2004 has contributed to an increase in public use of Cook Recreation Area; and
WHEREAS, as a result of that increase, in 2019 the USACE began the process of sharing information about a proposed public-private partnership at Cook Recreation Area to operate and maintain a multi-purpose day use area and campground; and
WHEREAS, USACE provided opportunities for area residents to provide input on a proposed lease agreement via letter and webinar; and
WHEREAS, residents in District 12 formed the "Friends of Cook Recreation Area" non-profit organization to encourage the USACE to look at alternatives to a public-private lease agreement; and
WHEREAS, the mission of "Friends of Cook Recreation Area" is to keep Cook Recreation Area public, preserve the pristine tree canopy and green space, preserve the existing wildlife habitat and keep free/low-cost access available for all socio-economic groups; and
WHEREAS, on February 28th the USACE will announce which submitted proposal is accepted as the best option for a long-term lease; and
WHEREAS, it is in the best interests for residents of Davidson County that Me...
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