The Pennsylvania Land Trust Association this week reported seven of the 10 referendums to increase funding for open space and farmland preservation on the November 8 ballot were approved. Only ballot questions in townships in Cumberland and Chester were not approved.

These ballot initiatives were approved--

· Pike County -- $10 million open space bond passed 68 percent to 32 percent;

· Bedminster Township, Bucks County -- Increase in earned income tax, generating $10.27 million in conservation funds passed 51 percent to 49 percent;

· Bushkill Township, Bucks County -- Increase in earned income tax, generating nine million dollars in conservation funds passed 66 percent to 34 percent;

· Plumstead Township, Bucks County -- Eight million dollar open space bond passed 77 percent to 23 percent;

· Solebury Township, Bucks County -- $18 million open space, farmland and recreation bond passed 88 percent to 12 percent;

· Upper Makefield Township, Bucks County -- $10 million open space and farmland preservation bond passed 80 percent to 20 percent;

· Honey Brook Township, Chester County -- Increase in earned income tax generating $10 million for open space and farmland passed 51 percent to 49 percent.

For more information on open space, farmland and habitat preservation, visit the Pennsylvania Land Trust Association webpage.

11/18/2005