Resident recognizes open space supporters

A loosely organized, grassroots group of citizens from all different backgrounds and interests came together for the common cause of protecting our remaining open spaces via promotion of an open space tax in Allentown. This letter is to recognize the voters of Allentown who strongly supported the borough open space tax question on last week's ballot. This question would not have been on the ballot if not for the efforts of numerous people who gathered more than 250 signatures on a petition presented to the Mayor [Stuart] Fierstein and Borough Council in July. Recognition is made of the 250 plus people who signed the petition as well as the following who gathered signatures including Catherine Drake, Ron Dunster, John Fabiano, John and Tessie Field, Michael and Donna Furda, Ann Garrison, Cindy Koontz, and Betsy Poinsett. Also, thanks go to Mayor Fierstein and Borough Council who supported placing the question on the ballot in August. Thanks go to Monica Togna for hosting a coffee for people to obtain information on the question. Also, thanks go to the following people, who delivered flyers about the question prior to the vote, including Ann Garrison, Eileen Heddy, Jean Hunter, Martha Ploshay, Betsy Poinsett, Monica Togna and Joanne Wireman. All those people that have in any way contributed to this opportunity are recognized.

The open space tax passage now permits the borough to be eligible for funding from the state Green Acres Program, Monmouth County, and other sources. It also permits Allentown Borough to be a good neighbor and partner with both Upper Freehold and Washington townships both of whom already have open space taxes. Open space, along with its associated quality of life, is the legacy that we will be leaving future generations in this place. The voters of Allentown have spoken. Now it is time for all parties to work in protecting our remaining "great places."

Greg Westfall

Allentown