Fanwood Asks Voters to Approve Open Space Fund

FANWOOD, NJ — Fanwood is asking voters to vote year on referendum question #4 to preserve historic and natural treasures through Open Space Fund.

If approved an open space fund would be created, which will be exclusively dedicated to funding Fanwood's historic, natural, and recreational assets.

The fund, officially titled the “Municipal Open Space, Recreation,and Farmland and Historic Preservation Trust Fund”, would provide funding for Fanwood assets such as the Historic Train Station, Carriage House, Fanwood Nature Center, Fanwood Parks and Recreational facilities and programs, according to the borough.

The cost of the levy will range from $8 - $11 per household.

• By law, this fund will be exclusively dedicated to the above purposes. It can never be used for other budget items.
• This fund sunsets (or expires) in 10 years, and cannot be renewed without another voter referendum.
• The fixed tax rate of $0.01 per $100 of assessed value is locked in for the 10-year life of the fund and cannot be increased.

If the fund is approved, Fanwood would be able to receive grant monies such as the NJ State Green Acres funds, which are currently closed to them. It would also allow the borough to take advantage of a wider range of grant opportunities.

"This initiative is supported by your neighbors who serve on the Environmental, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissions, as well as Mayor & Council," Fanwood announced in an email blast.

Read the full ballot question and the interpretive statement at unioncountyvotes.com/sample-ballots .

(Image via Shutterstock)

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