Open Space Referendum Smacks of 'Tax and Spend'

Nearly all Americans hold politicians in very low regard.  (Sometimes it seems that is the only thing Americans agree on.)  One big reason voters are unhappy is the disingenuous nature of elected officials.  We are often told taxes are being raised for one thing but later find out politicians want to spend it on something entirely different.

This “tax and spend” approach is exactly what the Hillsborough Township Committee is doing with their proposal to divert open space funds.  Clearly the Township Committee feels too much tax money is being set aside for acquisition of open space.  How much is too much?  Up to $3 million over the next ten years.  One would hope the Township Committee’s first instinct would have been to give the $3 million back to Hillsborough taxpayers.  

Sadly, the Township Committee instead wants to use our tax money to spend on other items – items that are arguably more appropriately classified as “Parks and Recreation” budget items.  This is entirely indefensible.  The referendum tells me the Township Committee can’t manage its budget.  

It also reveals our Township Committee members are just another set of tax and spend politicians. 

Hillsborough taxpayers should vote against the proposal.  First of all, compelling arguments have been made that open space is vitally needed for Hillsborough.  Second, if the open space fund is to be reduced, then the Township Committee should give the money back to taxpayers – not spend it!  Third, this proposal sets a terrible precedent.  How can anyone vote for any referendum in the future when politicians so nakedly demonstrate they will use the funds for whatever purposes they want?  The current referendum is vague with no defined terms.  I believe the referendum is simply an end run around the original open space law. 

I urge Hillsborough taxpayers to vote “No” on the proposal.  Let the Township Committee members know we do not approve of their “tax and spend” ways.

Thomas Prusa

Michelle Lane