The voting residents of West Milford will head to the polls on Nov. 5, 2013, to cast their ballots for a number of local, county, and state offices. Making an informed decision about the candidates is important, but there will be another critical item on the ballot that must be supported for the greater good of West Milford moving forward.
There will be a Municipal Public Question included on this year’s ballot. This public question centers around one key issue: should we, the citizens of West Milford, instruct our elected officials on the Township Council to reallocate our tax dollars to improve our recreational facilities at no additional tax cost?
If passed, this public question will authorize the council to spend 33.33 percent of monies in the “Open Space, Recreation, Farmland and Historic Preservation Trust Fund” (aka “Open Space”) for development and improvements to grounds used for recreational purposes.
There is a critical need for updates and improvements to our local fields and recreational facilities. This resolution would provide West Milford with the necessary funding to beautify our athletic and recreational complexes, enhancing their appeal and safety while also raising property values for all residents.
It is paramount to note that there will be no tax increase associated with the passing of the public question. These monies are already included in local homeowners’ current tax bills. This resolution will simply serve to establish new allocation guidelines for the council to ensure that open space monies are finally being used for the greater good of the entire community.
I encourage all of my fellow West Milford residents to join me in voting yes to the municipal public question on Nov. 5, 2013. We have the power to direct our council to spend our money how we want. Let us all take this opportunity to let our voices be heard for the greater success of West Milford in the years to come.
Matthew Conlon
West Milford
Conlon is a member of the West Milford Township Board of Education and Board liaison to the Recreation Advisory Committee. The opinions expressed herein are his and not necessarily those of other board/committee members or the entities as a whole.