Just as the nation's economy went over the cliff in late 2008, Minnesota voters had the sense to think of the long-term and approved a small sales tax increase to clean up our water, protect wildlife and fish habitat, and enhance parks and trails.

Now, about a year and a half after results of the balloting came in, benefits to communities across the state are coming in. St. Paul is one good example.

More than $4 million in Legacy Amendment funds are at work in St. Paul. The money will help keep water pollutants out of the Mississippi, expand the Cherokee Trail, improve conditions at Harriet Island park, reinvigorate Como Park and renew habitat at Mounds Park.

These monies are not going to create bureaucracies nor are the funded projects make work. They'll deliver important benefits for recreation and quality of life, now and for our kids and their kids.

The Amendment is working.