Open Space Up For Special Vote In Lower Makefield Township

LOWER MAKEFIELD TOWNSHIP, PA —A special question will be on the ballot before voters in the Nov. 5 general election that will focus on open space.

Voters will decide whether to approve the township spending up to $15 million for purposes of financing the acquisition of interests in real property for the preservation of environmental areas and open space for passive recreational purposes and benefits within the township.

The Lower Makefield Township Board of Supervisors adopted a resolution at its July 17 meeting authorizing the placement of the question on the ballot for the Nov. 5 general election.

If the full $15 million is approved and repaid over 25 years at current interest rates, the open-space referendum would cost residents about $82.36 a year for the average home assessment of $43,600.

The township has provided a FAQ list about the referendum.

The "Yes or No" question specifies whether the money can be used to purchase, place easements on, and buy the development rights for undeveloped land.

Up to 30 percent of what is borrowed ($4.5 million) can be used to improve or maintain undeveloped land “for addressing remediation or other potential existing liabilities to said property or other specific improvements relating to the preservation of environmentally sensitive areas, natural resources, historic land, passive recreation, and cultural purposes.”

The form of debt has not yet been determined.

If approved by voters, the township will explore various options, including a bank loan or bonds. As for the costs, issuance expenses are generally minimal compared to the overall borrowing cost, township officials said.