feature two to two and a half acre lots with a singlefamily home, multi-car garage, the more desirable rural feel lots that people who are escaping the inner city, and relocating to our community, are looking for,” Berg acknowledges. The community features numerous wetlands, which Look says contributes to higher property values in these areas.“You’re not going to have people building houses on top of you,” he suggests. “From a natural standpoint, the city is well positioned, because we have these open spaces already established within the community.” To further capitalize on this, East Bethel is focusing on the expansion of trails and connections through county and city roads, maintaining the community’s charm and residential appeal. PARKS AND RECREATION AMENITIES To enhance and preserve the quality of life that East Bethel residents expect, a park dedication fee is collected for every new development or new lot created by the subdivision of land. The city itself spans 48 square miles, with parks scattered throughout. Berg recounts, “We utilize the funds from the newer developments that may not have an identified city park, and we dedicate those funds to improve and or expand the existing parks already defined in our parks plan.” East Bethel’s parks and recreation opportunities are 118 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 07
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