Please send your letter as soon as possible, and no later than Monday, March 8, 2004. Date San Mateo LAFCo Commissioners c/o Martha Poyatos, Executive Officer 455 County Center Redwood City, CA 94063 Fax (650) 363-4849 Dear LAFCo Board: I am writing to urge you to approve the proposal before your Commission to expand the boundary of Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (MROSD) to the San Mateo County Coast. Since the Coastside community asked MROSD to expand the District to the San Mateo County Coast more than six years ago, the District has conducted significant research regarding how best to help preserve the extraordinary open space and agricultural resources from the threats of inappropriate development and sprawl. With considerable public input, the District's Board and staff have developed the proposal before you now, which would expand the District to include approximately 140,000 acres west of Skyline. The proposal provides for continued democratic representation and accountability, and will preserve the rural and scenic resources of the San Mateo County Coast, provide increased open space and recreation opportunities to the community, and preserve agricultural lands. For more than 30 years, the District has been a responsible and professional steward of public resources. The 26 public preserves it now manages from Los Gatos to San Carlos are treasured by Bay Area residents and visitors alike. Expansion of MROSD to the Coastside is the best way we have to ensure that our coastal resources are protected, well-managed and appropriately enjoyed by the public. The proposed boundary expansion is broadly supported both within current District boundaries and in the proposed expansion area. I am part of a majority of citizens who strongly support the expansion of the District and the protection of coastal open space and agricultural resources. Again, I urge you to vote to approve the proposed boundary change. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Your name Address City, ST and ZIP