NJ VOTERS DECIDE IF THE STATE SPENDS MONEY ON CONSERVATION AND PRESERVATION PROJECTS
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Newark - (WBGO News 11/2/2009)

New Jersey voters are getting a chance to weigh in whether the state should spend money on preserving land for conservation and recreation.

Garden State voters have one question on this ballot this election year … and that is to decide if New Jersey should borrow $400 million in bonds for green acres, Water Supply and Floodplain Protection, and Farmland and Historic Preservation.

New Jersey’s League of Women Voters’ Executive Director Anne Ruach (pronounced Rua) Nicholas says voting yes will allow the state to better protect water its supply, wild life diversity and the agricultural industry at a time when land costs are relatively low.

“… and also they might vote yes because using a bond issue to raise money allows the state to purchase this additional open space without increasing taxes.”

But voters may chose to vote no.

“Right now, the state’s finances are not in great shape and that raises concerns about having new expenditure or taking on new debt.”

Funds available from previous bond acts are almost gone. Additional funding is needed to continue such projects.

© 11/2/2009 WBGO News