Former WLT Preservationist of the Year Chis Cook was onstage when 2003 recipients Ann Arbor Mayor John Hieftje, right, and Ann Arbor Township Supervisor Mike Moran accepted theirs at the Washtenaw Land Trust annual dinner in October.           Photo by George Waldman

Ann Arbor Mayor John Hieftje and Ann Arbor Township Supervisor Mike Moran, who each played key leadership roles in putting two major land-preservation initiatives on the November 4, 2003, ballot, were named co-winners of the Washtenaw Land Trust's Preservationist of the Year Award at the nonprofit's annual fall dinner Thursday night. The annual award is given to persons who substantially advance the cause of land preservation, directly or indirectly.

"Mayor Hieftje and Supervisor Moran are to be commended for their vision and determination to get these important measures on the ballot, and get them approved," said Thomas C. O'Brien, WLT Board President. "Both leaders have rightly recognized the important role government can play in protecting open space and farmland. We salute them for their bold vision and willingness to act."

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