A yes vote for parks won't increase taxes

For decades, funding for New Jersey's parks has dwindled, especially for maintenance and repairs. This fall New Jersey voters have the chance to fund our parks with no new taxes! A "Yes!" to the November ballot question would allow existing revenue from the Corporate Business Tax to pay for long overdue park projects.

When budgets are tight it's hard to explain to voters why state parks need new facilities or refurbishments while cuts are being made to other equally critical programs. But the argument is easier the state's economic, environmental and quality of life issues are included.

A 2004 study by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection's (NJDEP) Division of Science, Research and Technology, found New Jersey's parks and forests generate an annual $1.2 billion in tax revenue each year. Over 15 million park visitors create a ripple effect in the local economy, buying food, lodging, gas and souvenirs. Neglecting parks hurts the growth of this revenue stream.

Of course, parks mean much more than money in the state's coffers. A 2004 study by Ernst & Young, on behalf of New Yorkers for Parks found that home values increased near well maintained parks while values decreased around those that looked neglected. A healthy park system contributes to the quality of life of all the residents in the surrounding neighborhoods. Parks also contribute environmental, educational and public health benefits, like flood control, recreational opportunities, and cleaner air and water.

Since these additional benefits don't show up on balance sheets, parks are an easy target when budget cuts are made. The results in New Jersey include a $250 million backlog in necessary repairs, fewer conservation officers, closed park facilities and lost educational and tourism opportunities. In Wharton State Forest's Batsto Village, for example, funding constraints have contributed to the closing of 13 of its 33 historic buildings.

The November ballot question has received enthusiastic bipartisan support in the NJ legislature and gives us a great opportunity to make up for some of the past neglect. Endorsement by the voters would mean an additional $15 million every year for state and local park improvements through 2015 and $32 million a year thereafter. And it won't cost a dime in new taxes!

The Teaneck Creek Conservancy Park is just one example of a local project that would benefit. Less than five miles from the George Washington Bridge, in an area with a population density over 6,000 people per square mile, a 46-acre park and wildlife habitat has already replaced a dumpsite. Phase two of the park could include a 70-acre addition and an extended trail system.

Anyone who has lived near a healthy public park understands the benefits. With a "Yes!" vote on the ballot question this fall, more New Jerseyans can experience the benefits of a vibrant park system, without additional taxes. It's a textbook 'win-win' vote!

For more information on parks, the ballot question and other related items, visit the Outdoor Recreation Alliance (ORA) Web site at www.outdoorrecreationalliance.org. ORA is a coalition of 55 leading local and statewide groups dedicated to developing New Jersey's parks.

I hope you'll contact me at info@njconservation.org, or visit NJCF's Web site at www.njconservation.org, for more information about conserving New Jersey's precious land and natural resources.

Michele S. Beyers

Executive Director of New Jersey Conservation Foundation