Raiding Holmdel's Open Space Fund balance does not equal “ZERO TAX INCREASE.”

The 10/14/16 Township Committee taxpayer paid for mailer “The Facts” pledging ”to move forward with two much needed turf fields ” did not mention the $3.3 mill Bond Ord. incurred long term debt Committee members unanimously approved to cover the costs.

"The Fact " mailer was not totally transparent to how the Open Space Trust Fund/ Tax would be used as a tool for subsidizing the infrastructure to arrive at the alleged “ZERO TAX INCREASE.”

The mailer pledged to move forward with two much needed turf fields. Over 700 Holmdel signatures were submitted, resubmitted and over 600 certified demanding the voters have a voice on the spending by way of a referendum.

* Absent info in the mailer …

* “needed turf fields “ being inconsistent with the 1982 Green Acres Acquisition Application for Cross Farms Conservation Area that states, “development" would consist of passive recreation-picnic areas, nature study, footpaths, etc

* Depletion of Open Space Fund for Cross Farm infrastructure conflicts with the Township Planning Board 2010 Farmland Preservation Incentive Grant Application stating …

** “…1999, the Township adopted an Open Space Tax on property to be used "to acquire, maintain and preserve open space, including farmland…”

** “…to amortize the Township’s payments on DePalma Farm, the Chase Tract and F&F nurseries…(open space acquisition)

** “… local Open Space Tax ideally should provide a consistent revenue stream for the purpose of open space acquisition…. “

** “…To preserve lands that possess soils of statewide importance and are designated as prime agriculture soils in productive outside of sewer service areas…”

Raiding the Fund’s balance to finance turf field infrastructure will require additional tax dollars to replenish and pay back the Open Space Fund.

Holmdel Mayor and Committee’s township wide mailer quotes toxicologist Dr. Laura Green’s claims of “exposure to chemicals are minimal during normal use.” The mailer did not divulge nor did Mayor Hinds during the $3.3 mill. Bond Public Hearing, that as of 2015 his cited and called upon expert Dr. Green to testify was proactively retained by Shaw Sports Turf corporation as a consulting toxicologist.

To be sure of the facts, always consider the source of “The Facts.”

Carole Balmer

Former Holmdel Township Deputy Mayor, Committeewomen, Vice-Chair Zoning Board of Adjustment, Planning Board Member,

Bayshore Regional Sewerage Authority Commissioner, Environmental Commission Chair, Save Sandy Hook Corresponding Secretary