The CBJ’s Priority-Driven Budget process identified closing the Jensen-Olson Arboretum as an opportunity to save $75,000 a year. This potential savings pales in comparison to the downside of exercising this option.
Caroline Jensen gifted CBJ the property for the arboretum, as well $2.1 million for its support. If the arboretum goes, so does this endowment. In sheer dollars, it would take over 30 years for any savings to result from closing the arboretum.
In 1993 CBJ signed an agreement to permanently maintain the arboretum for recreation, research and education. This framework has created many upsides.
It is an oceanfront garden that attracts locals and visitors alike. The flower show changes every month, so it’s always a unique destination experience. The vegetable garden provides food to nonprofits. The Juneau School District and Discovery Southeast use it to get kids outside. Researchers study hummingbirds and bats there. Hikers walk the Point Caroline trail through rainforest to the ocean.
What began as a historic homestead has evolved into a public garden with a nationally accredited primrose collection boasting more varieties of primrose than anywhere else in the United States.
Open to all year-round free of charge, the arboretum is a valuable asset that Juneau would be wise to maintain.
Kim Garnero,
Juneau