AGENDA ITEM 8.m
Proclamation in Recognition of
Recognizing Fairfax’s Piper Lane Neighbors for the
Acquisition and Preservation of the New
Piper Lane Nature Preserve
WHEREAS, the Town of Fairfax prides itself on its suburban-rural character, nestled within the hills and ridges that provide a sanctuary for native wildlife and a natural respite for its residents; and
WHEREAS, a specific one-acre parcel of land above Piper Lane, characterized by its very steep, north-facing verdant hillsides, moss-covered trees, and native oak woodlands, had remained undeveloped for all these years; and
WHEREAS, this parcel may serve as a critical habitat and migratory corridor for diverse wildlife, including northern spotted owls, red-tailed hawks, great horned owls, deer, bobcats, and coyotes; and
WHEREAS, local residents, led by the initiative of Kristen and Paul Wilson, consulted with the Fairfax Open Space Committee (FOSC) and demonstrated exemplary civic leadership by organizing their community to preserve this parcel through fundraising; and
WHEREAS, twelve dedicated neighbors successfully raised the funds to facilitate the acquisition of the property; and
WHEREAS, on December 12, 2025, in partnership with, and with funds raised by these neighbors on Piper Lane, the Western Alliance for Nature (WAN) closed escrow on this small (1.17 acres) property in Fairfax; and
WHEREAS, along with acquiring the property, WAN recorded a permanent deed restriction to ensure its long-term conservation and open space values, prohibiting any permanent structures on the property; and
WHEREAS, this newly established "Piper Lane Nature Preserve" now sits adjacent to, and as a protected buffer to the Town’s 100-acre Wall Property Open Space, furthering the community's goals for open space connectivity.
AGENDA ITEM 8.m
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Council of the Town of Fairfax hereby commends the Piper Lane Neighbors and the Western Alliance for Nature, illustrating the resilience of the community to collaborate in helping preserve the natural heritage of Fairfax for our current and future generations.
Signed on this 3rd day of June 2026
Stephanie Hellman
Mayor of Fairfax