2014-1089 FILE RESOLUTION NO. 2014 -1089
A resolution recognizing May 25, 2014 as the 25 anniversary of Rotary Botanical Gardens
WHEREAS, in 1988, in a letter to the City of Janesville, Dr. Robert Yahr proposed a botanical garden
be built on the fifteen acre site previously owned by Wilcox Sand & Gravel Company, that would be
dedicated to international peace and friendship; and
WHEREAS, on May 2, 1988, the City of Janesville agreed to lease what is now a 20 -acre site to the
Janesville Rotary Foundation at no charge for a period of 99 years; and
WHEREAS, the mission of Rotary Botanical Gardens has over twenty -five years expanded from
providing horticulture education and appreciation to encompass the enrichment of lives through
natural beauty, education, and the arts; and
WHEREAS, Rotary Botanical Gardens has grown over the last twenty -five years to a twenty acre
sanctuary of peace, a bastion of horticultural education, and a place for individuals and families alike
to celebrate their lives and the arts; and
WHEREAS, Rotary Botanical Gardens is the number one tourist destination in Rock County,
Wisconsin, welcoming over 100,000 visitors annually and creating an estimated $3,400,000 in
economic impact to the community; and
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COMMON COUNCIL of the City of Janesville that
the City of Janesville recognizes May 25, 2014 as the 25 anniversary of Rotary Botanical Gardens
and commends Dr. Robert Yahr, the staff, and volunteers for their stewardship, creativity, and diligent
hard work which has made Rotary Botanical Gardens what it is today, a place of beauty and
inspiration for the residents of Janesville and well beyond.
ADOPTED: April 28, 2014 Motion by: Kealy
Second by: Liebert
APPROVED: Councilmember Aye Nay Pass Absent
4 Bobzien X
X
(, Farrell
Mark A. Fr itag, City Manager Fitzgerald X
Kealy X
ATTES . , // Liebert X
7401 Marklein X
/ Severson X
David T. Godek, Deputy City Clerk- Treasurer
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
City Attorney
Proposed by: Rotary Botanical Gardens
Prepared by: Management Analyst