Bismarck, Mandan draft green space policies

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — Both Bismarck and Mandan are considering green space policies due to the accelerated pace of energy-driven development.

The Bismarck Tribune reports that both cities have drafted policies to have developers either donate 7 percent of their building project land or pay 7 percent of the land's market value. Right now, the cities rely on buying land or having it donated to obtain new park land.

Mandan has passed a first reading of its policy. Bismarck might wait to see if the Legislature deals with the issue.

Bismarck City Commissioner Josh Askvig says a lot of communities around the country have such policies to provide recreation areas and help keep a sense of open space.

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