Clearance for special vote in Lower Makefield Township

LOWER MAKEFIELD TOWNSHIP, Pa. – Voters will have a special question on the ballot in the Nov. 5 general election that involves open space.

Voters will decide whether to authorize the township to spend up to $15 million to fund the acquisition of interests in properties to preserve environmental areas and open space for passive recreation purposes and benefits within the township.

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

The “yes” or “no” question indicates whether the money can be used to purchase, establish easements, and purchase development rights on vacant land.

Up to 30 percent of the amount borrowed ($4.5 million) can be used to improve or preserve vacant land, “to address remediation or other potential existing liabilities relating to said property, or to make other specific improvements related to said property.” “Conservation of environmentally sensitive areas, natural resources or historic areas.” Land, passive recreation and cultural purposes.”

The form of the debt has not yet been determined.

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